The UAE Muay Thai Open Championship 2024, a premier event on the international martial arts calendar, will take place in Abu Dhabi from October 23-27, 2024. Organized by the UAE Muay Thai Federation, this prestigious championship will feature top Muaythai talent from around the world, with national teams from IFMA member countries invited to participate. The event will cover multiple weight categories across the Senior Elite, U23, and 16-17 divisions for both male and female athletes.
Event Information
- Date and Venue: The championship will be held from October 23-27, 2024, at the Space 42 Arena in Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi, offering a competitive platform in a culturally vibrant setting.
- Organizer: The UAE Muay Thai Federation, dedicated to the growth and promotion of the sport, is spearheading the event to further develop Muaythai in the UAE.
Participants and Categories
The UAE Muay Thai Open Championship 2024 will feature 551 fighters, showcasing a diverse array of Muaythai talent from around the globe. Competitors, both male and female, aged 8 to 23, will compete across 12 distinct weight categories.
Competition Structure
The championship kicks off with medical check-ups and weigh-ins on October 23 to ensure all athletes meet the competition’s health and fitness requirements. Preliminary rounds will begin on October 25, culminating in the final rounds on October 27, where champions in each division will be crowned.
Significance of the Event
This championship represents a major milestone in the development of Muaythai in the UAE, aiming to:
- Showcase youth and junior athletes during a key period of the competitive season.
- Promote the growth of Muaythai in the UAE, offering local athletes a global stage.
- Provide emerging talent with valuable international exposure and competitive experience.
Ali Khouri, Managing Director and Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai Federation, highlighted that the event aligns with the federation’s mission to provide premier programs for youth development. The UAE Muay Thai Open Championship 2024 reflects the federation’s commitment to fostering a Muaythai culture and promoting the sport to new generations.
In an effort to ensure inclusivity and remove barriers to participation, all costs for athletes will be covered by the federation, allowing competitors to focus entirely on their performance and the rich cultural experience Abu Dhabi offers.
H.E. Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, President of the UAE Muay Thai Federation, emphasized the importance of continuing to provide opportunities for athletes, noting that Muaythai is not just a martial art but a way of life. The UAE Muay Thai Open Championship serves as a platform to inspire and support the future of Muaythai, both in the UAE and beyond.
