Monday 20 / April / 2026
MUSCAT: Oman launch their campaign at the Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 on Tuesday with the national beach handball team taking centre stage in a demanding opening schedule.
Oman face Mongolia at 1:00pm (Muscat time) before returning to the sand later in the day to meet Qatar at 4:00pm, as the race for top-two qualification in the group begins.
Head coach Hamoud Al Hassani said the squad is ready after an intensive build-up. “Our preparation covered both physical and technical aspects over two phases, followed by a focused camp,” he said. “We structured sessions to maintain sharpness and avoid repetition.”
He warned that the group will be decided by fine margins. “Beach handball matches are short and often turn on small details. Focus and mental readiness will be crucial,” Al Hassani added.
“We are aiming to compete for top positions, but the competition is very strong.”
Oman continue their group fixtures later this week against Thailand, Maldives, Bangladesh, Jordan and Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the beach soccer team is in final preparations for Thursday’s clash against Palestine, followed by a meeting with hosts China on Saturday.
Under coach Talib Hilal, the side is targeting a strong start as it looks to revive memories of its 2008 title-winning run.
The athletics team also arrived in Sanya ahead of events starting Wednesday at Phoenix Island.
Oman Athletics Association chairman Saeed Al Hajri said the focus is on medals and personal bests. “This is an important return for beach sports, and we want to make an impact,” he said.
Oman are competing in five sports at the Games - beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach handball, athletics, and triathlon.
Oman have won 17 medals in the history of the Asian Beach Games, including 6 gold, 4 silver, and 7 bronze medals.
The Sanya 2026 Asian Beach Games features the participation of 1,790 athletes representing 45 Asian National Olympic Committees.
