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By Khuram Shahzad
RIYADH, Nov 23 (APP):From the moment I arrived in Riyadh, it was clear that these would not be ordinary days. From the airport to the highways, from the stadiums to Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, the presence of the Islamic Solidarity Games 2025 could be felt everywhere. Banners, volunteers, reception centers and world-class facilities stood as proof that Saudi Arabia was fully prepared to host a grand international sporting event.
After completing my registration at the Main Media Centre, the sight of journalists from across the globe, cutting-edge technology and perfectly organized operations strengthened the realization that this was not just a sporting competition, but a global mission of unity and solidarity.
The following day, we visited the Athletes’ Village at Princess Nourah University. Different languages, different colors and different cultures — yet one shared purpose. African athletes on their morning runs, Central Asian wrestlers in intense training, confident Arab players, and the graceful presence of female athletes all reflected a new Islamic landscape of determination, courage and hope.
With each passing day, Riyadh grew more vibrant. Beautifully decorated stadiums, an efficient transport system, firm yet courteous security, and smiling volunteers showed that the entire city was breathing with one spirit. Even before the competitions began, the atmosphere felt festive.
The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and in representation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, in the presence of the Governor of Riyadh, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz. This moment not only elevated the magnitude of the event but also delivered a clear message to the Islamic world: sport is the strongest language of unity.
The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an, followed by a breathtaking display of lights, an impressive drone show, and performances inspired by Saudi heritage and culture. The drone show depicted a spiritual journey from Makkah to Madinah, symbolizing the 57 participating nations, while the sounds of traditional Saudi instruments and the serving of Arabic coffee beautifully reflected the nation’s hospitality.
Saudi Minister of Sport and President of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA), Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, emphasized in his address that these Games were not merely about competition, but about strengthening bonds of brotherhood, friendship and unity across the Islamic world — a vision strongly supported by the Crown Prince’s commitment to bringing nations closer through sports.
Four Saudi athletes — Abdulrahman Al-Qahtani, Dunya Abu Talib, Hamdan Al-Bishi and Sultan Al-Daoudi — raised the Games’ flag, while the oath-taking ceremony highlighted the values of integrity, fairness and true sportsmanship.
The opening ceremony was broadcast live on 40 international television channels and two global digital platforms, underscoring the worldwide importance of the event.
As the delegations of 57 countries marched into the stadium and the theme “One Nation” echoed throughout the venue, it felt as if they were one body and one soul. At that moment, sport turned into a powerful message, a message of unity, peace and brotherhood.
Following the opening, the competitions officially began. The first gold medal was won by Turkiye’s Gamze Altun in weightlifting, giving the Games a golden start. Soon after, futsal, volleyball, swimming, judo, boxing and athletics competitions filled the arenas, which were packed with enthusiastic spectators. Every moment in the Media Centre brought a new headline, a new record and a new story.
Within days, clear leaders began to emerge. Turkiye, Bahrain and Morocco dominated athletics; Kyrgyzstan swept wrestling; Saudi Arabia demonstrated its strength in Jiu-Jitsu; Turkiye and Azerbaijan remained unbeaten in volleyball; while Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan shined in futsal. Every day introduced a new hero and added another memorable chapter to the Games.
The camel racing event brought a dramatic shift in atmosphere. Saudi Arabia once again proved its historical and cultural dominance. This competition was not merely a sport, but a living symbol of Saudi heritage, tradition and identity, strongly highlighted by international media.
Women’s competitions gave the event a powerful new dimension. Female athletes from across the Islamic world delivered outstanding performances, proving that women are securing a strong and respected place in the world of sports. It was a moment that symbolized an empowered and progressive future.
Iran and Azerbaijan also stood out. Iranian runner Ali Amirian captured gold in the 800 meters, drawing widespread attention, while Azerbaijani wrestlers claimed silver and bronze medals. The race on the medal table grew more intense with every passing hour.
As the days went by, the pursuit of medals became more competitive. Turkiye marched ahead, followed closely by Uzbekistan and Iran, while Morocco and Saudi Arabia also delivered impressive performances. At the Media Centre, one question dominated every conversation: Who will finish on top?
Ultimately, Turkiye, Uzbekistan and Iran secured the top three positions on the medal table, while host nation Saudi Arabia also delivered a highly commendable performance. Fierce and thrilling competitions were witnessed in athletics, wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, handball and many other events. Pakistan, participating with a 54-member contingent, won a total of five medals, one gold, one silver and three bronze, finishing in 24th position overall.
Then came the long-awaited closing ceremony. Fireworks lit up the Riyadh sky, cultural performances filled the air with energy, and the smiles of athletes and volunteers reflected the overwhelming success of the Games. The message resonated clearly: when the Islamic world stands united, no goal is out of reach.
Thus, the Islamic Solidarity Games 2025 came to an end, but their memories, moments and message will live on forever.
On behalf of the accredited media from Pakistan and across the 57 participating Islamic nations, heartfelt gratitude goes to the Saudi government, the Ministry of Sport, the organizers and the volunteers for giving us the privilege of being part of such a historic and unforgettable event.
Riyadh did not simply host Games, it connected hearts and delivered a powerful message of unity to the world.
The Islamic Solidarity Games were held from November 4 to 21 November, concluding with a grand closing ceremony that showcased not only athletic excellence, but also true unity, solidarity and sportsmanship across the Islamic world.