The UAE Kickboxing and Muay Thai Federation has finalised preparations for the championship, which will unfold at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from July 31 through August 3. Organisers outlined competitions in light, middle and heavy weight divisions for both male and female participants across multiple age brackets, according to a statement distributed by the Emirates News Agency. Last year’s edition drew 420 athletes from 25 clubs, a figure the federation said reflected steady growth in youth engagement since the event began in 2018. The tournament also incorporates technical seminars and coaching workshops designed to elevate standards ahead of regional competitions.
A report from the General Authority of Sports places participation in martial arts disciplines across the UAE at more than 15,000 registered youth athletes, up 25 percent over the past five years. The authority’s data shows combat sports programmes have expanded particularly in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where dedicated training centres now support structured pathways from grassroots to elite levels. The championship aligns with national strategies to harness sport for youth development, the federation noted in its announcement. Officials plan to select standout performers for specialised training camps later this year.
International Kickboxing Federation records indicate the UAE has secured 18 medals in youth categories at Asian championships since 2020, underscoring the country’s rising profile in the discipline. The Abu Dhabi event will serve as a domestic qualifier for several upcoming international tournaments, federation officials stated. Entries have already been received from clubs in all seven emirates, signalling broad geographical representation. Medical and anti-doping protocols will be enforced throughout the competition in line with national and international standards.
The federation has partnered with local sports councils to provide logistical support, including transportation for teams from remote areas. Judging panels will consist of certified international referees to ensure impartiality and consistency across bouts, according to event guidelines. Spectators will be able to attend free of charge, with live broadcasts planned on national sports channels to widen reach. Organisers anticipate the event will further boost interest in kickboxing among school-age children.
Separate figures from the Asian Kickboxing Confederation highlight the UAE’s role in hosting training camps that have attracted participants from neighbouring countries. The confederation’s annual review credited UAE federations with contributing to a 30 percent rise in registered youth competitors region-wide between 2022 and 2025. Such initiatives have helped standardise coaching methods and competition formats across the Gulf. The current championship builds directly on these collaborative efforts.
Entry verification and weigh-ins are scheduled for the day before competition begins, the federation said. Safety briefings will be mandatory for all athletes, coaches and officials prior to the first bell. Results and highlights will be published daily on the federation’s official platforms to maintain transparency. The event concludes with an awards ceremony honouring top performers in each category.
