SPIA 2026 opens submissions in Abu Dhabi as organisers expand categories and judging panel
SPIA 2026 opens submissions in Abu Dhabi, expanding categories and the judging panel to spotlight innovation across the Middle East sports industry and encourage wider participation.
Strong opening to SPIA 2026 in Abu Dhabi
SPIA 2026 has officially opened for entries, with organisers confirming Abu Dhabi as the host city for a second consecutive year. The awards programme, now in its 13th edition, will accept submissions from rights holders, federations, brands, agencies, venues and service providers across the region.
Organisers said the 2026 cycle introduces new award fields and an enlarged judging panel designed to improve rigour and representation. The move aims to recognise the diversity of work driving the Middle East’s fast-growing sports sector.
New categories and expanded judging panel announced
The 2026 awards expand beyond traditional categories to include technology, data and young leader recognitions alongside event and sustainability honours. Organisers highlighted additions that reflect industry trends such as best use of data and analytics, athlete wellbeing, and sport education and training.
An expanded judging panel brings in more regional and international expertise, intended to strengthen credibility and ensure entries are assessed across a broader set of criteria. The organisers emphasised that the new structure is aimed at providing independent industry recognition for projects of measurable impact.
Strategic partners and sponsor line-up confirmed
SPIA 2026 will be delivered in partnership with Interact and supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi acting as a strategic partner. Motus One returns as a gold sponsor, while The Athletic will serve as media partner and Mramez as a silver sponsor.
Sport360X, which runs the awards, said these partnerships help deliver a platform that reaches stakeholders across the Middle East. The backers and sponsors were described as central to amplifying the visibility and credibility of shortlisted organisations and winners.
Benefits for entrants and examples of past winners
Organisers say being shortlisted or winning a SPIA award provides independent validation, strengthens brand credibility and raises visibility with key stakeholders. Past winners have included major regional names across the private and public sectors, demonstrating the awards’ cross‑sector influence.
Last year’s champions spanned shipping, government bodies, major corporate sponsors and sporting federations, reflecting that both commercial campaigns and public initiatives can achieve recognition. The organisers underscored that entries from smaller agencies and community programmes have also historically performed well when they demonstrate clear outcomes.
Submission process and eligibility guidance
Submissions for SPIA 2026 are now open and include full category details, eligibility criteria and deadlines published by the organisers. Entrants are required to provide evidence of impact and outcomes, with the judging process designed to reward replicable and measurable work across the sports ecosystem.
Companies and individuals are encouraged to align entries with the stated criteria and to provide supporting data where possible. Organisers recommend early submission to allow teams adequate time to compile case materials and supporting documentation.
Organisers stress the region’s industry maturity
Sport360X and Interact framed SPIA 2026 as a reflection of the Middle East’s maturing sports industry, noting stronger project delivery and more ambitious strategic thinking across organisations. Interact’s founder described the region’s market as moving beyond growth into maturity, with leaders setting new benchmarks for programme design and impact.
Sport360X highlighted its role in telling regional sports stories across Arabic and English platforms, noting the company’s reach across social and digital channels. The organisers said the awards are part of a broader effort to put the Middle East’s sports innovation on an international stage.
Applications are invited from a wide cross-section of the industry, including event organisers, technology providers, teams, community programmes and individuals. Entrants should reference the detailed category descriptions and adhere to submission deadlines to be considered by the independent judging panel.
SPIA 2026 aims to further professionalise recognition within the regional sports sector and to give high-performing projects the platform and recognition organisers say they deserve.
