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

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

• 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.

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.

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."

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.