Riyadh, February 15, 2025 – In a historic moment for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the wider West Asian region, the nation officially received the flag of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) as the designated host of the 10th Asian Winter Games NEOM 2029. This milestone marks Saudi Arabia as the first country in West Asia to host this prestigious continental sporting event, further solidifying its growing influence in the global sports arena.
The official handover of the flag took place during the closing ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games, held today at the Harbin International Conference Exhibition and Sports Center in China. The event was attended by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, high-ranking officials, representatives from 45 Asian nations, and prominent global sports figures, underscoring the significance of this momentous occasion.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sport, President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and Head of the Saudi Delegation for the Games, proudly accepted the OCA flag from Olympic Council of Asia Vice President Timothy Fok. This ceremonial handover symbolizes the formal transition of responsibility, as Saudi Arabia prepares to welcome athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts from across Asia to NEOM in 2029.
Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the Asian Winter Games reflects its ambitious commitment to developing world-class sports infrastructure and fostering international athletic excellence. The futuristic city of NEOM, with its cutting-edge facilities and sustainable development initiatives, is poised to deliver an unparalleled winter sports experience that aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives of economic diversification and global sports leadership.
With the flag now in its possession, Saudi Arabia embarks on an exciting journey toward hosting an event that will not only showcase the nation’s capabilities but also leave a lasting legacy in the region’s sporting history. The countdown to the 10th Asian Winter Games NEOM 2029 has officially begun, setting the stage for a transformative and unforgettable winter sports spectacle.