Abu Dhabi to Host 2025 World Kickboxing Championships

The United Arab Emirates has announced a major sporting milestone. For the first time in history, the World Kickboxing Championships will be held outside Europe and in the Middle East. Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, has been chosen as the host city for this prestigious international event. The championships will take place from 21 to 30 November 2025 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

This is not just another sporting event. It is a moment that shows the UAE’s ability to welcome the world, organize world-class competitions, and highlight its role as a global hub for sports, especially combat sports. More than 2,000 athletes from 150 countries are expected to participate, making it one of the largest gatherings in the sport’s history.

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A Historic First for the Middle East

The World Kickboxing Championships have always been held in Europe. For decades, the continent has been the center of international kickboxing competitions. But in 2025, history will be made when the event comes to Abu Dhabi. This marks the first time ever that the tournament will take place outside Europe, and the first time in the Arab world.

This decision highlights the trust placed in the UAE by international sports federations. It also reflects the country’s growing reputation for organizing global tournaments across many sports. From Formula 1 races to UFC fights, tennis championships, and now kickboxing, the UAE has built a strong image as a land of opportunity for athletes worldwide.

The Official Announcement

The news was confirmed during a signing ceremony between the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation. The event was attended by key leaders from the sport, including:

• His Excellency Roy Baker, President of the International Federation.

• Ali Khoury, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation.

Together, they signed the agreement that makes Abu Dhabi the official host of the 2025 World Kickboxing Championships for both Masters and Seniors categories.

Statements from Leaders

His Excellency Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi

President of the Asian and Arab Muay Thai Federations, and also the President of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, expressed great pride in this achievement. He said that hosting the championship in Abu Dhabi is another milestone in the UAE’s sporting journey.

He explained that this decision shows the confidence international federations have in the UAE’s ability to host global events. Al Neyadi added that the tournament will not only showcase kickboxing at the highest level but also serve as a platform to highlight the remarkable growth of the sport in the UAE.

He also thanked the UAE’s wise leadership, whose continuous support has made such achievements possible. According to him, the event strengthens the UAE’s position as a global hub for combat sports.

Roy Baker

Roy Baker, President of the International Kickboxing Federation, also shared his thoughts. He expressed pride in Abu Dhabi being chosen as the host city. Baker explained that the International Federation follows a recognition system similar to the Olympic Games, ensuring transparency and fairness in all decisions.

He said the UAE was selected because of its rapid development in kickboxing and its growing role as a regional hub for sports. Baker pointed out that the participation of over 2,000 athletes from 150 nations is proof of the confidence the global community has in the UAE Federation.

Ali Khoury

Ali Khoury, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, described the hosting as a transformative moment in the sport’s history. He said that bringing the championship to Abu Dhabi is not just about changing the venue but also about expanding the horizons of kickboxing.

Khoury noted that hosting the event outside Europe, and in the Arab world for the first time, shows the UAE’s distinguished place in the sporting world. He said the event will be a valuable addition to the calendar of major international sporting competitions.

He also extended his gratitude to the UAE leadership for its unwavering support of both kickboxing and Muay Thai. This support, he explained, has raised the standing of the Federation at both regional and global levels.

Why Abu Dhabi?

The choice of Abu Dhabi as the host city is no surprise. The emirate has become famous for its ability to organize large-scale sporting events that meet the highest global standards. With world-class infrastructure, excellent security, and a welcoming atmosphere, Abu Dhabi is seen as a natural destination for athletes and fans alike.

ADNEC, the venue for the championship, is one of the largest and most modern exhibition centers in the region. It is well-equipped to host thousands of athletes, officials, and visitors, ensuring smooth operations throughout the 10-day event.

Moreover, Abu Dhabi’s location makes it easy for athletes from different continents to travel and participate. This central position has helped the UAE become a bridge between East and West.

The Growth of Kickboxing in the UAE

Kickboxing has grown rapidly in the UAE over the past few years. Thanks to continuous investment, training programs, and international events, the sport has attracted both local and international attention.

The UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation has played a key role in this growth. By organizing regional championships and supporting young athletes, it has built a strong base for the sport. The upcoming World Kickboxing Championships 2025 is expected to inspire a new generation of fighters and fans in the country.

A Global Celebration of Sport

When the championships take place in November 2025, it will not only be about the fights inside the ring. The event will be a celebration of cultures, with 150 nations coming together under one roof. Each athlete will carry the pride of their country, and together, they will show the uniting power of sports.

For the UAE, this is an opportunity to show the world its hospitality, organizational excellence, and commitment to building bridges through sports. For athletes, it is a chance to compete on the global stage, gain recognition, and push the limits of their talent.

The countdown to November 2025 has already begun. Over the next months, preparations will be in full swing. The UAE Federation, along with WAKO, will ensure that everything is ready for what promises to be an unforgettable event.

For fans of combat sports, the World Kickboxing Championships 2025 in Abu Dhabi is a date to mark on the calendar. It will be a tournament of skill, discipline, and sportsmanship, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

The announcement of Abu Dhabi as the host for the 2025 World Kickboxing Championships is more than just sporting news. It is a symbol of progress, ambition, and global unity. By welcoming 2,000 athletes from 150 countries, the UAE is once again proving its place as a leader in the sporting world.

With the strong support of its leadership, the dedication of its federations, and the passion of athletes, the UAE is set to write a new chapter in the history of kickboxing. And when the bell rings in Abu Dhabi in November 2025, the world will be watching.

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