The first seven of 302 gold medals to be presented over the next 16 days at the Beijing Games will be contested today, including two each in shooting and judo.
China could win the first gold medal presented as Du Li is favourite to win the women's 10-metre air rifle.
The UAE have two competitors in shooting – Sheikh Ahmed bin Hasher Al Maktoum and Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum – as well as one in judo, Saeed Al Qubaisi.
There are also qualifying heats in swimming, where American Michael Phelps will begin his quest for a record eight Olympic gold medals, while qualifying for the 400m individual medley.
The final is on Sunday.
"I'm just ready for it to be here," said Phelps. "It's exciting. The pool is great. It's going to be jam-packed and loud and I just can't wait to compete there. I'm pretty confident right now and just ready to have some fun."
Other preliminary competition begins today in archery, badminton, beach volleyball, boxing, men's artistic gymnastics, rowing, sailing, and women's basketball, where last year's WNBA MVP, Lauren Jackson, leads Australia against Belarus.