Sanya, China – Media Outreach Newswire – 30 April 2026 – The ninth day of competition marked the conclusion of the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, bringing the multi-sport competition to an end. Gathering more than 1,600 athletes from 45 countries and regions across Asia, the Games not only provided high-level competition, but also provided a window into the new phase of openness following the island-wide special customs operation of the Hainan Free Trade Port (Hainan FTP).
The smooth conduct of the Games demonstrated Sanya’s ability to host major international events. From the competition venues spanning 22 kilometers of coastline, to the 22 designated hotels accommodating domestic and international guests, and the support of 4,680 volunteers, as well as tourism and cultural engagement activities, the host city’s organization and services received wide recognition. Abdulaziz Baishen, Secretary General and CEO of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said, “The organization of this Asian Beach Games has been of a very high standard, once again demonstrating China’s excellent ability to host major international sporting events.”
The success of the Games was based on the policies of the Hainan FTP. Cross-border travel was efficient and seamless, taking advantage of visa-free access and programme-specific facilitation measures for citizens of 86 countries. Qatari athlete Ahmed Elmeniyawi said, “The entry procedures were extremely convenient. It took less than two minutes to complete all the arrival formalities – truly an excellent experience.” A Saudi Olympic Committee official also said that the FTP policies and visa-free regime facilitated the participation of delegations and promoted bilateral sports exchanges.
During the Games, Sanya launched a series of cultural tourism activities and consumer promotion packages focused on the “philosophy plus leisure” model, promoting the integration of sports and tourism consumption. At the same time, the Asian Beach Games served as a platform for exchanges between Asian countries. During his visit to Hainan, International Olympic Committee Honorary President Thomas Bach said he felt “the unity of Asia”. Asian Olympic Council President Raja Randhir Singh said that despite differences in language and traditions, a shared passion for sports brings people together.
Although the games are over, the openness and collaboration continues. The event has provided Hainan FTP with valuable experience in hosting major international events and demonstrated China’s continuous efforts to expand high-level opening-up. The FTP will continue to deepen international exchanges and cooperation with an open and inclusive approach.
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