31st Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival Welcomes Over 3,000 Players From 82 Countries In August 2025

The 31st Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival is set to occur from 15th to 24th August 2025, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Chess & Mind Games Club and overseen by the Abu Dhabi Sport Council, this event will be hosted at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche.

This year's festival will witness a record number of participants, with over 3,000 players from 82 countries. This marks an increase of more than 500 participants compared to last year. The total prize pool for the event is AED500,000, placing it among the world's top chess festivals and surpassing many renowned international tournaments.

The festival will feature 27 tournaments catering to various age groups and skill levels. The Masters Tournament will lead these events. Additionally, three new mind sports competitions—checkers, dominoes, and Chess960 (Fischer Random Chess)—will be introduced. This expansion reflects the festival's aim to attract a wider audience interested in mind games.

Top Players and Champions

Chess enthusiasts can anticipate seeing top UAE players like Imran Al Hosani, who holds titles such as West Asia Youth Champion and UAE Men’s Champion. Roza Issa Al Serkal will also compete alongside world champions in different age categories. Notable participants include Masters Tournament top seed Sanan Sjugirov and second seed Arkadij Naiditsch.

The UAE will also be represented by national champion Ammar Al Sderani, Arab Girls Champion Ahlam Rashid, Abdulrahman Al Taher, and Hamad Al Kaaf in various age categories. Their participation highlights the strong presence of local talent in this prestigious event.

Cultural and Tourism Opportunities

Beyond chess, the festival serves as a cultural showcase for Abu Dhabi. Delegations have opportunities to explore the UAE capital's landmarks through accompanying tourism programmes. This initiative enhances Abu Dhabi's reputation as a global destination for both sport and tourism.

The festival promises an engaging experience for participants and spectators alike while promoting cultural exchange and tourism in Abu Dhabi.

With inputs from WAM