Medal - Special Olympics World Summer Games Abu Dhabi

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RAS AL KHAIMAH
HOST TOWN

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The 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games were a special olympics multi-sport event for athletes with intellectual disabilities in the tradition of the Special Olympics movement. It was held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates from March 14–21, 2019. The 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games was the first Special Olympics games to take place in the Middle East and the largest sports and humanitarian event recorded, featuring 200 nations, more than 7,000 athletes and 20,000 registered volunteers. Since 2017 and following its national policy, the United Arab Emirates coined the term "determination" instead of "disability", referring to disabled people as "People of Determination"

The Host Town Program has been a part of the Special Olympics World Games, but it was first introduced to a regional Games in IX MENA Games. The program leverages an opportunity to raise awareness about the UAE vision to create inclusive and unified communities, making the UAE an excellent example of a nation that chooses to include. The Host Town program offers the opportunity to the delegations to enjoy Emirati hospitality, customs and traditions. It also creates public awareness of intellectual disabilities and promotes the Special Olympics spirit all over the UAE. Additionally, it helps familiarize athletes with their new environments before starting competitions through sports, cultural, artistic and community events. The Host Town Program provides Special Olympics athletes with a chance to experience the Emirati culture and hospitality while in turn providing every citizen of the UAE a life-changing and memorable experience with Special Olympics athletes.