Two decades after hosting the inaugural edition in Mecca, the nation is once again at the heart of regional sport. In November, Riyadh will welcome the world’s top athletes for the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, event aiming to strengthen brotherhood among Muslim-majority nations.
This marks the first time a country will host the Games twice. Originally set to take place in Yaoundé, Cameroon, the event was unexpectedly relocated to Saudi Arabia for reasons yet to be disclosed. The sudden shift, revealed on Sunday by Azernews underscores the complexities of global sports diplomacy and the influence of key players in the international sporting landscape. The Islamic Solidarity Games are not merely about medals and records. Organised by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Islamic Solidarity Sports Federation (ISSF), they serve as a platform to promote unity, cultural identity, and inclusivity within the Muslim world.
Since their inception, the Games have sought to combat discrimination against Muslim athletes while reinforcing a shared sporting identity. Although participation is primarily reserved for OIC member states—currently numbering 57—non-Muslim athletes residing in these countries are also eligible to compete, reinforcing the Games’ spirit of inclusivity. However, the event has not been without its challenges. Political divisions, economic disparities in sports development, and the high costs of hosting have frequently tested its sustainability. Yet, with each edition, the Games have grown in stature, blending sports, diplomacy, and cultural pride into a unique spectacle.
Since its inaugural edition in 2005, the Islamic Solidarity Games have travelled across different cities, leaving a significant mark on the development of sports within the Muslim world. The first edition took place in Mecca, laying the foundation for future competitions. In 2009, the event moved to Tehran, Iran, with a renewed focus on promoting new sporting disciplines. Four years later, Palembang, Indonesia, became the next host, followed by Baku in 2017, a milestone edition that saw remarkable organisational improvements and record participation.
Most recently, in 2023, the Games were held in Konya, Turkey, showcasing an exceptional level of competition and setting new medal records. Among the most memorable editions was Baku 2017, which delivered a true sporting spectacle. With over 3,000 athletes from 54 nations competing across 24 disciplines, a total of 269 medals were awarded. Azerbaijan dominated the medal table with 162 medals (75 gold, 50 silver, and 37 bronze), followed by Turkey, Iran, Uzbekistan, and Bahrain.
Hosting the Islamic Solidarity Games is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider strategy to become a global sports hub. In recent years, the kingdom has invested heavily in football, motorsports, boxing, and other major events, positioning itself as a vital player in international sports governance. The challenge now is ensuring that Riyadh 2025 surpasses its predecessors—both in organisation and global impact. With world-class sporting infrastructure and strong government backing, expectations are high.
Key focus areas include the expansion of the number of disciplines, making the Games more inclusive and diverse; enhancing media coverage, increasing global visibility and engagement; and of course, providing opportunities for athletes from developing nations, levelling the playing field and fostering sports development.
