The UAE makes history by sending a senior team to the Winter Olympics for the first time at Milan-Cortina 2026, showcasing its determination and investment in winter sports despite geographic challenges.

Alex Astridge is set to make history this month as the first male alpine skier to represent the UAE at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. This milestone is the culmination of a decade-long strategic partnership between Majid Al Futtaim’s Ski Dubai,

The National Olympic Committee (NOC) of the UAE in cooperation with the UAE Winter Sports Federation and Ski Dubai, on Sunday honoured the athletes

It’s amazing for all the kids back in Ski Dubai because they can see that there's a pathway and there's an end goal."

Astridge was born in Cambridge but moved to the UAE as a baby.

From medals to mascots, schedules to slopes—here’s everything you need to know to be ready for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.

• Let the games begin: Italian President Sergio Mattarella declared the 2026 Winter Olympics open. Two cauldrons — one in Milan and one in Cortina — have been lit, marking a first in the Winter Games’ history.

The UAE’s participation in the Winter Olympics is particularly noteworthy, as it will be their first appearance in this prestigious event. Historically, Middle Eastern nations have faced challenges in winter sports due to their predominantly warm climates,

"Amid pressing international conflicts, the Olympics is one of the most significant geopolitical events of the year."

Bissau, along with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the Middle East, are making their Winter Olympic debuts, while North Korea has not received an invitation. The exclusion is not due to political reasons or sanctions from the International Olympic Committee (IOC),

The 2026 Winter Olympics will officially get underway with a landmark Opening Ceremony to launch the Milano Cortina Games. Fans around the world will be tuning in, and key details around the date, location,