RIYADH — The anticipation for the highly anticipated second edition of Saudi Arabia's preeminent sporting event is growing. From November 26 to December 10, 2023, more than 6,000 athletes from across the country are enthusiastically preparing to participate in a celebration of athleticism, competition, and national pride.
The organizing committee for the 2023 Saudi Games is prepared to deliver another magnificent display of national sportsmanship and athletic prowess, following the resounding success of the inaugural edition in 2018. As the largest sporting event ever held in a single Middle Eastern city, the 2023 Saudi Games will continue to elevate the bar for national competitions throughout the region.
More than 6,000 of Saudi Arabia's finest athletes will compete in 53 disciplines at this year's event. Six of these sports are exclusive to the Paralympics, with the remaining four serving as demonstration sports. In addition, the Saudi Youth Games will feature 12 disciplines.
In addition to competing for podium positions, athletes will compete for cash prizes aggregating more than SR200 million. Gold medalists will receive SR1 million, silver medalists will receive SR300,000, and bronze medalists will receive SR100,000. Youth gold medalists will receive SR100,000, silver medalists will receive SR50,000, and bronze medalists will receive SR25,000.
As the competition's opening day approaches, stay tuned for a series of exciting announcements, including updates on venues and schedules, as well as the anxiously awaited start of the torch relay. It is noteworthy that last year's torch traveled over 3,500 kilometers during a 50-day journey, introducing communities to the event's inspiring mission.
The inaugural Saudi Games left an indelible mark on the sporting landscape of Saudi Arabia. The 2022 Saudi Games featured more than 45 sports, including five dedicated to the Paralympics, and contributed to the development of 20 sports facilities in Riyadh while enhancing the organizational, administrative, and national sports teams' capabilities.
