The organising committee of the 32nd Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival 2026 has announced a record participation of 2,250 players for the event that opened on August 15. According to WAM, this total encompasses competitors across various skill levels and includes 300 players from the UAE. The committee stressed that the UAE participants will gain valuable experience in advance of the emirate hosting the Chess Olympiad in 2028.
Competitions commenced on the opening day at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Abu Dhabi. The committee detailed that 763 players are set to compete in four major tournaments. These break down to 112 entrants for the International Masters Tournament, 152 for the Open A Tournament, 280 for the Open B Tournament and 219 for the Juniors Tournament.
The remaining participants are spread across additional tournaments and events that form part of the comprehensive festival programme. This structure allows for inclusive competition that accommodates players of differing ages and abilities. WAM figures show the UAE contingent represents a substantial portion of the overall field.
A report from the Abu Dhabi Media Office placed participation in the 30th Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival at more than 2,500 players from 82 countries. The 2024 edition included a record 333 male and female Emirati competitors. The event took place from August 15 to 25 in the emirate.
The organising committee has positioned the current festival as a key platform for UAE players to prepare for the 2028 Chess Olympiad. Participation in such international events helps in developing their skills and competitive experience. The committee noted the significance of this preparation phase.
Further details on the schedule were outlined in the committee’s announcement distributed by WAM. The Radisson Blu Hotel will host the initial rounds of competition. Updates on the festival will continue to be provided by WAM as the event progresses.
