On 21 September, the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) proudly celebrates International Day of Peace, underlining its commitment to using sport to tackle violence, hate, discrimination and inequality.

Peace is one of the ISSA’s core values, guiding the organization in its evolution into an orchestrator of sustainable sport policies.

Emphasizing the message of peace has been a fundamental part of the ISSA’s transformation, and providing emergency support to ISSA member countries affected by conflict and crisis is one of the organization’s key focus areas.

The upcoming Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia will unite 3,500 athletes from the ISSA’s 57 member countries, serving as a vibrant celebration of their diversity and shared values and conveying a strong message of peace and unity through sport.

Riyadh 2025 will take place from 7-21 November and feature 23 sports, including two Para sports. There will be an equal number of events for male and female athletes, underlining the role of the Islamic Solidarity Games in promoting inclusion across the ISSA’s membership.

Beyond competition, the Islamic Solidarity Games will also feature an extensive cultural program off the field of play, bringing together athletes and officials from across the 57 member countries and promoting sport's role in building bridges between communities.

ISSA Secretary General Nasser Majali said: "The ISSA strongly believes in the power of sport to unite communities and contribute to a more peaceful world."

"We are excited that in less than 50 days’ time, athletes from across the ISSA’s member countries will gather in Riyadh for the Islamic Solidarity Games. This will highlight sport’s ability to serve as a platform for peace, unity and diversity. "

International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly, and this year’s theme is Act Now for a Peaceful World.

For further information on International Day of Peace, click here.

Want to know more about the Islamic Solidarity Games?

Explore the Riyadh 2025 page of our website.

Follow the ISSA on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and TikTok.

Follow the official accounts for the Riyadh 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Sign up to our brand new email newsletter for all the latest ISSA news as we build up towards Riyadh 2025 by clicking here.