The UAE Open Kickboxing Championship for men and women is set to commence this Friday, November 22, at Space 42 Arena, Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi. Over three thrilling days, 581 fighters from 39 clubs will vie for glory, demonstrating their commitment, skill, and fighting spirit in one of the UAE’s most eagerly awaited martial arts events.

Organized by the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, the championship underscores the federation’s steadfast dedication to promoting kickboxing across the UAE. This year’s competition aims to raise the bar on technical excellence while offering a global platform for local talent to showcase their abilities. The event will feature two main disciplines—Point Fight and Kick Light—open to participants aged 7 to 40, ensuring a diverse and inclusive tournament.

Preliminary weigh-ins and medical screenings will be conducted on Wednesday, November 20, at two locations: the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation headquarters in Abu Dhabi and the Holiday Inn Festival City in Dubai. The competition will kick off on Friday with qualifying rounds beginning at 3:00 pm. Matches will continue on Saturday from 10:00 am, culminating in the finals on Sunday starting at 10:00 am.

Ali Khouri, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation and Executive Member of the International Kickboxing Federation, emphasized the championship’s importance in advancing the sport. “We are honored to host this prestigious event, which aligns with our mission to support the growth of Muay Thai and kickboxing through well-balanced and strategic initiatives. This tournament provides athletes with invaluable experience and the chance to display their skills in the ring,” Khouri stated.

“With two disciplines—Point Fight and Kick Light—the event is crucial for developing emerging talent. It not only assesses their readiness but also plays a pivotal role in our broader strategy to identify and cultivate athletes for the national team.” Established in May 2017, the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation is the official governing body for these sports in the Emirates. The federation is committed to increasing awareness and participation, fostering a community that appreciates the technical and cultural dimensions of Muay Thai and kickboxing.

Through its various initiatives, the federation aims to create teams capable of excelling in both professional and amateur international competitions, positioning the UAE as a global center for these dynamic sports.

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