The UAE capital will host the 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship for the first time in the Middle East, marking a major milestone in the region’s growing reputation for staging global sports events.
The championship is scheduled to take place from September 10 to 20 at Space 42 Arena in Al Raha Beach, and is expected to welcome over 1,500 young athletes from more than 100 countries.
Hosting agreement signed
The official hosting agreement was signed between the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation at Space 42 Arena. The agreement was signed by Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, and Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi, Board Member of the UAE Federation and Secretary-General of the Arab Muay Thai Federation.
His Excellency Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, President of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, said:
“Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship reflects the prestigious standing the UAE has attained globally in organizing major international sports events, thanks to the visionary leadership and boundless support of the wise leadership.”
He added: “We are committed to delivering an exceptional edition of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship that honors the UAE’s name and meets the aspirations of our wise leadership and the youth of the nation. Through this event, we also aim to expand the reach of Muay Thai across the Arab world, Asia, and globally from the UAE.”
Global participation expected
According to IFMA Secretary-General Stephen Fox, the 2025 championship will be the largest in the event’s history.
“This championship is expected to attract over 100 national teams and 1,500 young athletes from various age groups. The trust placed in Abu Dhabi by the global Muay Thai community is a testament to the UAE’s credibility, hospitality, and top-tier facilities,” he said.
He also expressed confidence in the UAE Federation’s ability to organize the event successfully, noting:
“Hosting the event at Space 42 Arena, one of the finest venues globally, ensures the championship will meet the highest international standards.”
Federation leadership role
Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi emphasized that the event aligns with the Federation’s broader strategy:
“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. We highly value the IFMA family’s vote of confidence and the international trust placed in the UAE.”
Preparations are already underway to ensure the event meets global expectations, with Space 42 Arena selected as the main venue due to its advanced facilities.
About the UAE Federation
Established in 2017, the UAE Muay Thai & Kickboxing Federation oversees the growth and governance of the sport across the country. The Federation plays an active role in athlete development, international representation, and hosting world-class events.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
