Badminton and Squash Gain Momentum in Oman with Ambitious 2026 Plan

Oman Racket Sports Committee Unveils Diverse 2026 Calendar with Strong International Presence

Muscat:  Dr. Abdulrahim Musallam Al-Darwashi, Chairman of the Oman Racket Sports Committee (ORSC), affirmed that 2026 will feature a diverse calendar of tournaments, competitions, partnerships, and development programs for badminton and squash across the Sultanate of Oman.

In a statement to Oman News Agency (ONA), Al-Darwashi explained that the committee’s comprehensive local and international agenda reflects rapid and sustainable growth achieved within a relatively short period since the committee’s establishment, supported by realistic indicators and well-planned development strategies.

He noted that the 2026 calendar includes the organization of several local and international badminton and squash championships, alongside continued support for age groups through accredited training centers in the Muscat Governorate. He added that the committee will expand geographically by opening two new training centers in additional governorates, with the aim of widening participation and developing a new generation of players.

Al-Darwashi clarified that the committee’s agenda goes beyond competitions to include targeted community initiatives, most notably the Women’s Badminton program and the AirBadminton (outdoor badminton) initiative. These efforts are complemented by an increase in coaching and refereeing courses to qualify national cadres for regional and international levels, while providing special support to national team players through local and overseas training camps and international participation.

Regarding the spread of racket sports, Al-Darwashi pointed out that the committee’s Board of Directors has followed a clear development plan from the outset, beginning with school-based promotion programs, before expanding activities to parks, beaches, and public spaces. This approach has contributed to reaching broader segments of society and increasing community engagement.

He added that the committee has strengthened its presence in summer programs through initiatives such as Summer of Squash, in addition to programs implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth across various governorates. He noted that the next phase will witness the inclusion of badminton and squash within the calendars of other government and private institutions, while continuing to organize age-group championships based on carefully structured technical divisions over the coming two years.