The UAE makes history by sending a senior team to the Winter Olympics for the first time at Milan-Cortina 2026, showcasing its determination and investment in winter sports despite geographic challenges.

Alex Astridge hopes to inspire younger generation representing UAE at Olympics - Astridge was born in Cambridge but moved to the UAE as a baby.

The National Olympic Committee (NOC) of the UAE in cooperation with the UAE Winter Sports Federation and Ski Dubai, on Sunday honoured the athletes

It’s amazing for all the kids back in Ski Dubai because they can see that there's a pathway and there's an end goal."

Throughout the 2026 Winter Olympics, you'll see AIN listed next to a number of athletes. But what exactly is it? Here's what you need to know.

• Let the games begin: Italian President Sergio Mattarella declared the 2026 Winter Olympics open. Two cauldrons — one in Milan and one in Cortina — have been lit, marking a first in the Winter Games’ history. Oh here we go, biggest cheer of the night goes to Mariah Carey! Out come the camera phones.

Raised on the indoor slopes of Ski Dubai, Alexander Astridge is redefining what "home advantage" means for the UAE. At just 19, he is set to represent his country as its Alpine skier at the Winter Olympics, marking the UAE’s debut in this sport. His journey serves as proof that Olympic dreams can take flight, even in the desert.

The winter Olympics will feature a new sport. In ski mountaineering, called “skimo” for short, athletes race both up and downhill, alternately wearing and carrying their skis in backpacks. This became an official sport in the 1980s. Switzerland, France, and Italy are likely to dominate the competition.

"Amid pressing international conflicts, the Olympics is one of the most significant geopolitical events of the year."