UN Inter-Agency Games 2026

Crete, Greece | 6–10 May 2026

The 51st United Nations Inter-Agency Games (IAG) will take place on the island of Crete, Greece, from 6 to 10 May 2026, hosted by the Vienna-based organizations UNOV/UNODC, UNIDO, IAEA, and CTBTO.

For nearly six decades, the Inter-Agency Games have brought together colleagues from across the UN common system for a unique blend of sport, camaraderie, and inter-agency networking. In 2026, we are proud to welcome you to an edition designed as a fresh, carefully curated experience, placing an even stronger emphasis on rest, reconnection, simplicity, and community — without losing what makes the IAG special: friendly competition and shared spirit.

A Games concept designed for today

Across the UN system, many colleagues are experiencing demanding professional realities shaped by reform processes, budgetary constraints, and uncertainty. Against this backdrop, the 2026 Games aim to be a genuine moment of collective respite: an opportunity to step away from daily pressures, focus on sport, and spend meaningful time with colleagues and friends in a safe and supportive environment.

Destination: Crete and Heraklion

Crete offers a setting that combines natural beauty, cultural depth, and a strong sporting tradition. The Games will be hosted in and around Heraklion, with accommodation and key activities centred in the coastal region of Hersonissos.

A cohesive, resort-based experience

To keep logistics simple and the community experience strong, the event is anchored at Lyttos Beach Resort, selected for its ability to combine high-quality sports infrastructure, generous space, and hospitality standards within one cohesive setting — allowing participants to compete, recover, socialise, and relax with minimal friction.

What to expect during the week

  • Arrivals begin on Wednesday, 6 May 2026, via Heraklion International Airport.
  • Competitions will take place from Thursday to Saturday, 7–9 May 2026 across multiple disciplines (all at amateur level).
  • The week culminates with a Closing Ceremony on Saturday evening, conceived as a Mediterranean cultural experience celebrating sporting achievement, teamwork, and conviviality.
  • Departures take place on Sunday, 10 May 2026.

Save the date and stay connected

This page will be expanded over time as operational and sport-specific information is released. In the meantime, we invite all colleagues and organizations to save the dates and follow updates through the official IAG channels.

For general inquiries, please contact: secretariat [at] interagencygames [dot] org