OIC Joins 42nd ISSA Board Meeting on Islamic Solidarity Games

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) participated in the 42nd Executive Board meeting of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA), held virtually on Monday under the chairmanship of Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Saudi Minister of Sport and ISSA President. The meeting, attended by Ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet, OIC Assistant Secretary-General for Cultural, Social, and Humanitarian Affairs, along with his team from the Youth and Sports Department, focused on the progress of preparations for the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, scheduled to take place in Riyadh from November 7 to 21, 2025.

The virtual gathering underscored the OIC’s commitment to fostering solidarity and cooperation among its member states through sports, a key pillar of the organization’s cultural and social initiatives. It also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting unity and development through major sporting events, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. The meeting reviewed a report from the ISSA General Secretariat on the readiness for the upcoming Games and discussed updates on future editions in 2029 and 2033. The participation of high-level OIC officials reflects the importance of sports as a tool for diplomacy and youth empowerment across the Islamic world. How can sports serve as a bridge to unite diverse nations under shared values of peace and cooperation?

Context and Background

The Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) was established to promote sports cooperation among OIC member states, with the Islamic Solidarity Games serving as its flagship event. First held in 2005 in Saudi Arabia, the Games have grown into a major multi-sport competition that brings together athletes from across the Islamic world. The 42nd Executive Board meeting is part of the ongoing preparations for the sixth edition, which will be hosted in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia, a founding member of the OIC, has consistently supported ISSA’s mission to use sports as a means to enhance solidarity, cultural exchange, and youth development. Isn’t it inspiring to see how sports can transcend borders and foster unity among nations?

The OIC, as the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, has long recognized the role of sports in achieving its objectives of peace, prosperity, and cultural harmony. Ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet’s participation in the meeting highlights the OIC’s active engagement in ISSA’s activities. The meeting also reviewed the latest updates regarding the upcoming editions of the Games in 2029 and 2033, demonstrating the long-term commitment of member states to sustain this important platform. Saudi Arabia’s leadership in hosting and organizing these events reflects its dedication to Vision 2030, which emphasizes international collaboration and the development of the sports sector as a catalyst for economic and social growth.

Key Details

During the 42nd Executive Board meeting, the agenda included a comprehensive review of the ISSA General Secretariat’s report on the progress of preparations for the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games. The report detailed logistical arrangements, venue readiness, and the participation of member states. The meeting also addressed the latest updates regarding the upcoming editions of the Games in 2029 and 2033, ensuring continuity and long-term planning. The virtual format allowed for broad participation from ISSA Executive Board members, who discussed strategies to enhance the Games’ impact and reach. What does it take to organize an event that brings together thousands of athletes from over 50 countries?

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, in his capacity as ISSA President and Saudi Minister of Sport, chaired the meeting, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in the association. The OIC delegation, led by Ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet, included experts from the Youth and Sports Department, who contributed insights on integrating sports into the OIC’s broader cultural and social agenda. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the member states’ commitment to the success of the upcoming Games and the continued promotion of Islamic solidarity through sports. The Islamic Solidarity Games are expected to feature a wide range of sports, from athletics to martial arts, showcasing the talents of athletes from across the Islamic world.

International and Regional Impact

The Islamic Solidarity Games serve as a platform for strengthening ties among OIC member states, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting peace. By hosting the sixth edition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia reinforces its position as a global hub for sports and diplomacy. The event will attract athletes, officials, and spectators from around the world, boosting tourism and cultural exchange. The Games also align with the OIC’s objectives of enhancing cooperation in social and cultural fields. How might the Games influence perceptions of the Islamic world on the global stage? The event provides an opportunity to showcase the rich heritage and modern achievements of Saudi Arabia and the wider region.

Regionally, the Games contribute to stability and cooperation by bringing together nations that may have differing political views, united by a shared passion for sports. The OIC’s involvement ensures that the event transcends mere competition, serving as a vehicle for cultural and humanitarian initiatives. The participation of high-level officials like Ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet signals the importance the OIC places on sports as a tool for development. The upcoming Games in Riyadh are expected to set a new benchmark for future editions, with state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive planning. Could this be a model for other regions to emulate in using sports for unity?

Economic and Strategic Significance

The Islamic Solidarity Games are not only a sporting event but also an economic catalyst. Hosting the Games in Riyadh is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including increased tourism, infrastructure development, and job creation. Saudi Arabia’s investment in sports infrastructure, such as the King Fahd International Stadium and other venues, reflects its strategic focus on diversifying the economy away from oil. The Games will also provide a platform for local businesses and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services to an international audience. How can major sporting events drive economic transformation in host countries? The event aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of increasing the sports sector’s contribution to the GDP and promoting a healthy lifestyle among citizens and residents.

Strategically, Saudi Arabia’s leadership in ISSA and the hosting of the Games enhance its soft power and influence in the Islamic world. By facilitating dialogue and cooperation through sports, the Kingdom strengthens its diplomatic ties and positions itself as a bridge between cultures. The OIC’s participation further legitimizes the event and ensures that it serves the broader objectives of the Islamic ummah. The economic and strategic benefits extend beyond the duration of the Games, leaving a legacy of improved infrastructure, enhanced international relations, and a more vibrant sports culture. Isn’t it remarkable how sports can be a catalyst for such comprehensive development?

Vision 2030 Alignment

The hosting of the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh is a clear manifestation of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a global leader in various fields, including sports. Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of sports in promoting social cohesion, health, and economic growth. The Games will contribute to these goals by inspiring youth participation, fostering national pride, and attracting international visitors. The event also supports the Vision’s objective of increasing the number of sports events and activities, thereby enhancing the quality of life for citizens and residents. How does hosting international sporting events contribute to a nation’s long-term development? Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ISSA and the Games demonstrates its dedication to international cooperation and its role as a responsible global citizen.

Moreover, the Games provide an opportunity to showcase Saudi Arabia’s progress in women’s sports and inclusivity, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of empowering all segments of society. The Kingdom has made significant strides in promoting sports for women, and the Islamic Solidarity Games will be a platform to highlight these achievements. The event also aligns with the OIC’s objectives of promoting youth and sports, as reflected in the participation of the Youth and Sports Department. As Saudi Arabia continues to host major international events, it solidifies its position as a leader in the global sports arena and a champion of Islamic solidarity. Will the world recognize the Kingdom’s efforts in using sports as a force for good? The answer is already unfolding on the fields and courts of Riyadh.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the main purpose of the 42nd Executive Board meeting of ISSA?

A1. The meeting aimed to discuss the agenda and review the progress of preparations for the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, scheduled for November 7-21, 2025, in Riyadh, as well as updates on future editions.

Q2. Who chaired the 42nd Executive Board meeting of ISSA?

A2. The meeting was chaired by Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Saudi Minister of Sport and ISSA President, who led the discussions on the upcoming Games and organizational matters.

Q3. Which OIC official participated in the meeting?

A3. Ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet, OIC Assistant Secretary-General for Cultural, Social, and Humanitarian Affairs, participated along with his team from the Youth and Sports Department.

Q4. When and where will the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games take place?

A4. The sixth edition is scheduled to take place from November 7 to 21, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a significant event for the Islamic world.

Q5. What is the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA)?

A5. ISSA is an organization under the OIC that promotes sports cooperation among member states, with the Islamic Solidarity Games as its flagship event, fostering unity and cultural exchange.

Q6. How does the OIC benefit from participating in ISSA meetings?

A6. The OIC benefits by advancing its cultural and social objectives, using sports to promote solidarity, youth development, and cooperation among member states, in line with its overall mission.

Q7. What was discussed regarding the 2029 and 2033 editions of the Games?

A7. The meeting addressed the latest updates and planning for the upcoming editions in 2029 and 2033, ensuring continuity and long-term commitment to the Games.

Q8. Why is Saudi Arabia hosting the Islamic Solidarity Games significant?

A8. It underscores Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the Islamic world, its commitment to Vision 2030, and its ability to organize major international sporting events that promote unity and development.

Q9. What role does sports play in the OIC’s agenda?

A9. Sports are a key tool for the OIC to foster solidarity, cultural exchange, and youth empowerment among member states, contributing to peace and social development.

Q10. How many countries are expected to participate in the Games?

A10. While the exact number may vary, the Games typically attract athletes from over 50 OIC member states, showcasing a wide range of sports and talents from across the Islamic world.

Q11. What are the expected economic benefits of hosting the Games in Riyadh?

A11. The Games are expected to boost tourism, create jobs, stimulate infrastructure development, and increase the sports sector’s contribution to the economy, aligning with Vision 2030.

Q12. How does the Islamic Solidarity Games promote cultural exchange?

A12. By bringing together athletes and spectators from diverse backgrounds, the Games facilitate cultural interaction, mutual understanding, and appreciation of the rich heritage of Islamic nations.

Q13. What is the significance of the virtual format of the meeting?

A13. The virtual format allowed broad participation from ISSA Executive Board members despite geographical distances, ensuring efficient decision-making and continuity in preparations.

Q14. How does the OIC’s Youth and Sports Department contribute to ISSA?

A14. The department provides expertise and support in integrating youth and sports initiatives into the OIC’s broader agenda, enhancing the impact of events like the Islamic Solidarity Games.

Q15. What legacy will the Games leave for Saudi Arabia?

A15. The Games will leave a legacy of improved sports infrastructure, enhanced international relations, and a stronger sports culture, contributing to the Kingdom’s long-term development goals.

Q16. How does hosting the Games align with Vision 2030?

A16. It aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting sports, enhancing quality of life, diversifying the economy, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in international events.

Q17. What sports will be featured in the Islamic Solidarity Games?

A17. The Games typically include a variety of sports such as athletics, swimming, martial arts, football, and more, reflecting the diverse sporting traditions of OIC member states.

Q18. How can the Games foster unity among Islamic nations?

A18. By providing a platform for friendly competition and cultural exchange, the Games build bridges between nations, promoting solidarity and mutual respect under the banner of Islam.

Q19. What is the role of Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal in ISSA?

A19. As ISSA President and Saudi Minister of Sport, he provides leadership and vision, guiding the association’s efforts to promote sports solidarity and oversee the successful organization of the Games.

Q20. How can the international community engage with the Islamic Solidarity Games?

A20. The international community can engage by attending the Games, supporting participating athletes, and recognizing the event’s role in promoting peace, unity, and cultural exchange among nations.