The Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 got under way on Thursday evening with a thrilling opening ceremony.
Thousands of people packed into Zayed Sports City Stadium to welcome the competitors, who have descended on the UAE from around the world, in the athletes parade.
The evening also featured performances from stars such as Avril Lavigne, Tamer Hosny, Luis Fonsi and Hussain al Jassmi, as well as a stunning rendition of the theme of the Special Olympics, Right Where I'm Supposed to Be.
More than 7,500 athletes from over 190 countries are competing in the event, which runs until March 21.
UAE condemns Damietta Port incident, Egypt investigation continues
H.H. Sheikh Mohamed announces scholarships for Serbian students at UAE universities
Abu Dhabi sets January deadline to remove junk food at supermarket checkouts
Sheikh Abdullah expresses UAE's solidarity during call with Jordanian, Egyptian FMs
Dubai population crosses 4.5 million by end of 2025
