Abu Dhabi Set To Host The 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship In September

Abu Dhabi is set to host the 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship from 10th to 20th September at Space 42 Arena, Al Raha Beach. This marks the first time the event will be held in the Middle East, enhancing the UAE's reputation for hosting top-tier sports events. The announcement was made by the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation.

The official hosting agreement was signed at Space 42 Arena. Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, and Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, were present. Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, President of both Asian and Arab Muay Thai Federations, highlighted Abu Dhabi's global standing in sports due to visionary leadership.

Al Neyadi stated that hosting this championship reflects the UAE's esteemed position in organising major international sports events. He credited this achievement to the support from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Their leadership has propelled the UAE to new heights in international sports achievements.

He further mentioned that Abu Dhabi aims to become a global hub for combat sports. The strategy involves hosting events that meet high organisational and technical standards. This championship is part of efforts to enhance the UAE’s presence on the international sports map.

Al Neyadi expressed commitment to delivering an exceptional edition of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship. He emphasised that it would honour the UAE’s name and meet leadership aspirations. The event also aims to expand Muay Thai's reach across Asia and globally from the UAE.

Stephen Fox praised Abu Dhabi's capability in hosting major events: "I am honored to be here in Abu Dhabi at Space 42 Arena, an exceptional sports venue, to finalize the agreement for the largest Youth World Muay Thai Championship in history. We have full confidence in the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation to deliver an outstanding tournament."

Expectations for Participation

The championship is expected to draw over 100 national teams and 1,500 young athletes from various age groups. Fox noted that Abu Dhabi's credibility and facilities make it a trusted choice for families worldwide sending their children to compete.

Fox extended gratitude towards Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi for inspiring future generations of Muay Thai athletes: "I extend heartfelt thanks to His Excellency Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi for this historic opportunity to inspire the next generation of Muay Thai athletes."

Partnerships and Preparations

Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi highlighted that completing this agreement with IFMA aligns with ongoing development strategies led by Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi. He valued IFMA's trust in the UAE’s organisational capabilities: "The UAE Federation has completed the hosting agreement with IFMA as part of its ongoing development strategies under the leadership of His Excellency Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi."

The championship will take place at Space 42 Arena, welcoming 1,500 athletes across all age groups. Organised with IFMA's cooperation, it aims to expand Muay Thai’s footprint in the Arab world.

Al Mehairi thanked Stephen Fox for attending and wished success for all participating teams: "We also thank Stephen Fox for attending the ceremony, and we wish all participating teams success in the tournament." Preparations are underway confirming Abu Dhabi’s readiness for this prestigious global event.

With inputs from WAM