The opening ceremony of the 5th Asian Indoor Games and Martial Arts will kick off in the capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat today. The Games have attracted the participation of 5,000 athletes from 63 countries in Asia and Oceania and will continue through 27th September.

During the parade ring of participating countries, Taleb Al Karbi, the world champion, player of our national Jui Jitsu Team and holder of the black belt, will be the UAE flag bearer.

The Olympic stadium will host more than 7,500 participating performance and folklore teams as well as 200 musicians and 100 horses of the Akhal-Teke breed, an icon of the host country. The ceremony will also include shows about the Turkmenistan civilisation and the use of optical technologies in delivering an array of cultural and historical messages.

The UAE National Olympic Committee delegation taking part in the event comprises 96 sportsmen and women, including 68 male and female athletes competing in seven sports namely, indoor football, Jiu Jitsu, athletics, cycling, bowling, chess, and billiards and snooker.

"The participation of the UAE in this vast continental gathering for the fifth running in a row reflects the growth of the UAE sport, thanks to the support accorded by our leadership to better represent the nation in various events," said Dawood Al Hajri, Acting Secretary-General of the NOC.

"Today our athletes have a renewed chance to represent the country in such a strong event that has attracted the elites of all sports. We have plenty of opportunities to make achievements and raise the image of our nation. We see no hindrances in the way of building our presence in the trophy presentation days. It is the ultimate objective stressed by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation and President of the NOC, who urges athletes before the start of various events to deliver their level best. We are confident that the representation will match our aspirations and objectives," explained Al Hajri.