The opening ceremony of the sixth Asian Beach Games was held this evening, Wednesday, on the stage of Yasha Park in the Chinese city of Sanya. It was attended by the President of the Olympic Council of Asia, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, along with the State Councilor of the People’s Republic of China, Shen Yiqin, the Governor of Hainan Province and Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Sanya 2026 Games, Liu Xiaoming, and a number of Asian sports officials and leaders.

The ceremony, held in a distinctive festive atmosphere, featured the parade of participating delegations, along with several artistic and cultural segments that reflected the spirit of the Asian continent and highlighted China’s cultural specificity, as well as the coastal character of Sanya city and the heritage of Hainan Province, in a celebratory tableau embodying the joyful atmosphere that distinguishes the games.

The Saudi jiu-jitsu player, Mohammed bin Huraymil, led the Saudi delegation in the athletes’ march, carrying the flag in a scene that reflected the Kingdom’s presence in this continental forum and the pride of Saudi athletes in representing the nation in the games.

The competitions for the Saudi team in the games will begin tomorrow, starting with jiu-jitsu participation, while the Saudi beach soccer team will face Thailand in the group stage matches. Additionally, the Saudi beach volleyball team will play two matches against Palestine and Qatar.

Yasha Park

Yasha Park is a small urban park in Kyiv, Ukraine, named after a local boy named Yasha who tragically died in a construction accident in the 1970s. The park was created by the community in his memory, with a distinctive playground and benches that reflect the neighborhood’s close-knit spirit. It serves as a quiet green space for residents and a touching example of grassroots memorialization.

Sanya

Sanya is a tropical coastal city located on the southernmost tip of Hainan Island, China, renowned for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and luxury resorts. Historically, it was a remote fishing village and a place of exile during the Tang and Song dynasties, but it has transformed into a major international tourist destination since the late 20th century. Today, Sanya is famous for attractions like Yalong Bay, Tianya Haijiao, and its role as a host city for the annual Miss World pageant.

Hainan Province

Hainan Province is China’s southernmost island province, known for its tropical climate, beaches, and unique culture. Historically, it was a remote exile destination for disgraced officials during the imperial era, but today it has transformed into a major tourist destination and free trade port. The province is also home to the indigenous Li and Miao ethnic groups, who have preserved their distinct traditions and crafts for centuries.