UAE to Make Historic Winter Olympics 2026 Debut – Emirati Athletes Ready for Milan & Cortina
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to create history at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, with the nation participating for the first time in the Winter Olympic Games. This achievement marks a significant milestone not only in the UAE’s sporting journey but also for the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where winter sports have traditionally had limited representation. 0
📌 Watch: UAE Winter Olympics Preparation & Ski Team Highlights
Video: UAE ski team training for Winter Olympics (Source: YouTube)
Introduction: The UAE's Winter Olympics Debut
In January 2026, the UAE National Olympic Committee confirmed that the country will participate in the 26th Winter Olympic Games, scheduled from February 6 to 22, 2026. The UAE delegation will include two Alpine skiers — one male and one female — representing the nation in one of the most challenging winter sports disciplines. 1
This debut is historic, as the UAE previously participated only in the Winter Youth Olympic Games, but has never competed in the main Winter Olympic event. The decision signifies the continued growth of sports across diverse disciplines in the UAE and reflects a strong commitment to expanding the country’s presence across all major global sporting stages. 2
UAE’s Representation at the 2026 Winter Olympics
According to official Olympic records, the UAE will send two competitors — one male and one female — to the Winter Olympics, both competing in Alpine skiing. The athletes are scheduled to serve as flagbearers in the opening ceremony. 3
| Competitor | Gender | Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Alexander Astridge | Male | Alpine skiing |
| Piera Hudson | Female | Alpine skiing |
Both athletes have earned their place through rigorous qualification and represent a culmination of years of progress for the UAE winter sports community. 4
Who Are the UAE's Winter Olympians?
➤ Alexander Astridge
Alexander Astridge is a young Emirati ski athlete whose journey reflects a unique blend of talent, opportunity, and passion. Born on June 2, 2006, Astridge grew up in the UAE and began skiing at a very young age. He trained extensively at Ski Dubai, the indoor ski resort in Dubai that has helped nurture many winter sport talents in the country. 5
Astridge made his international debut in 2023 and later competed in events such as the Winter Youth Olympic Games, where he gained valuable experience. His participation in international competitions positions him as a rising talent on the global skiing circuit. 6
➤ Piera Hudson
Piera Hudson, the female representative of the UAE, brings additional depth and experience to the team. Although originally from another background, Hudson now competes under the UAE flag and has trained extensively in competitive skiing environments. She brings a strong competitive edge and international experience, helping to elevate the UAE's presence in the sport. 7
Together, Astridge and Hudson form a balanced team representing Emirati winter sport aspirations on the world stage at Milan and Cortina. 8
UAE’s Journey Into Winter Sports
The UAE’s participation in winter sports may seem unlikely given its desert climate, but the country has consistently invested in facilities and programs that nurture winter sport talents. One of the most important catalysts has been Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski resort, which opened in 2005 and continues to play a central role in winter sport development. 9
Ski Dubai was recently recognized as one of the world’s best indoor ski resorts, winning international awards and standing out as a hub for snow sport activities. Its slope facilities, coaching programs, and community events have helped foster a growing winter sport culture in the UAE. 10
Beyond recreational skiing, Ski Dubai has hosted international competition circuits and FIS‑sanctioned ski events, which are competitive arenas where aspiring UAE skiers can train and earn qualifying points required for global competitions, including the Olympics. 11
Training Challenges and Preparation
Training for winter sports presents unique challenges for athletes from hot-weather nations like the UAE. Indoor slopes provide a controlled environment, but outdoor winter conditions differ greatly due to cold weather, variable snow, and altitude changes. 12
To overcome this, Emirati ski athletes, including those on the national team, travel to Alpine regions such as Switzerland, Austria, and other parts of Europe for training camps. These camps offer crucial experience with natural snow conditions, high elevations, and competitive racing environments. 13
Moreover, athletes balance their seasonal training with education, personal commitments, and travel. The intensity and discipline required demonstrate not just ambition but also resilience — traits that define their competitive spirit on the world stage. 14
Alpine Skiing: Understanding the Sport
Alpine skiing is one of the most watched and demanding winter sport disciplines. It includes events like slalom and giant slalom, where skiers race downhill through tightly spaced gates, testing precision, agility, and speed. Competitors must complete the course in the shortest possible time while navigating complex technical layouts. 15
This sport is deeply competitive in countries with natural snow and mountain ranges, such as Switzerland, Austria, and Norway. For the UAE, participation in these events represents not just competition but a statement: that dedication and training can overcome environmental limitations. 16
Previous Emirati Winter Sports Success
Before their Olympic debut, UAE athletes participated in distinguished winter competitions such as the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, where Emirati competitors won a combined total of 16 medals, including gold, silver, and bronze. This achievement is a testament to the country’s growing winter sports programs and competitive potential. 17
These successes have laid important groundwork for the nation’s Olympic aspirations, enhancing visibility for winter sports and inspiring a new generation of athletes in the UAE. 18
Regional and Global Impact
The UAE’s participation in the Winter Olympics serves as an inspiration throughout the MENA region. Countries historically absent from winter sport stages now see how targeted investments, training, and international collaborations can pave the way to global platforms like the Olympic Games. 19
It also highlights the Olympic spirit — that sport unites people across climates, cultures, and geographies. Emirati athletes from desert environments competing alongside nations with centuries‑old winter sport traditions embodies this unifying ideal. 20
What Fans and Experts Are Saying
International sports commentators and fans have shown excitement about the UAE’s Winter Olympics debut, pointing to it as a milestone in sports inclusivity. Supporters note how Emirati athletes bring unique stories and determination to the world stage, enriching the competitive fabric of the Games. 21
While medal predictions vary, many agree that the real achievement for the UAE lies in qualifying and competing, which itself opens doors for future generations of winter sport enthusiasts in the region. 22
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
📌 Is this UAE’s first appearance at the Winter Olympics?
Yes. The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina mark the UAE’s first participation in the main Winter Games. 23
📌 How many athletes are representing the UAE?
The UAE delegation consists of two athletes — one man and one woman — competing in Alpine skiing. 24
📌 Where are the 2026 XWinter Olympics hosted?
The 2026 Winter Olympics are hosted in the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. 25
📌 What winter sport will the UAE compete in?
UAE athletes will compete in Alpine skiing, which includes events requiring technical skill and speed. 26
📌 Has the UAE competed in any other winter international events?
Yes. Emirati athletes have competed in events like the Winter Youth Olympic Games and the Special Olympics World Winter Games, winning medals and gaining valuable experience. 27
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Published on: January 19, 2026 | Updated: Today
With the UAE making its winter Olympics debut,the nation sets a new benchmark for sports development and regional representation.The journey of these athletes demonstrates determination, vision and ambition, inspiring future generations to dream beyond limits.
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