Abu Dhabi Hosts World Kickboxing Championship 2025

The World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO), alongside the UAE Muaythai and Kickboxing Federation (UAEMKFED), has unveiled plans for the World Kickboxing Championship for Seniors and Masters in Abu Dhabi.

Scheduled from 21st to 30th November 2025 at the ADNEC Arena, this championship marks a historic first, taking place outside Europe. It establishes Abu Dhabi as a pivotal center for martial arts, drawing elite kickboxers from around the world.

Anticipating participation from over 2,000 athletes from 150 countries, this championship will be the largest and most inclusive event of its kind. Competitions will feature Tatami and Ring formats, including Masters and Para-Kickboxing events, which will highlight various talents and expertise.

The schedule spans nine days, encompassing daily qualifications, semi-finals, and finals, culminating in the Grand Finals and Awarding Ceremonies on the 28th and 29th of November, with teams leaving on the 30th.

The Opening Ceremony is set for Sunday, November 23, 2025, at 17:00 at the ADNEC Arena, where global delegations and dignitaries will be welcomed, underscoring the UAE’s dedication to enhancing international combat sports.

This event is designed to merge cultural presentations, entertainment, and martial arts displays, promising an extraordinary experience for both athletes and attendees.

Competitors will take part in both Tatami (point-based fighting) and Ring (full-contact) events, providing platforms for a diverse array of fighting styles and levels.

The Masters and Para-Kickboxing divisions enhance the event's inclusivity, recognizing athletes of varying ages and abilities and reinforcing principles of fairness and sportsmanship.

Ali Khouri, a Board Member of UAEMKFED and an Executive Board Member of WAKO, shared insights on the significance of this championship for Abu Dhabi and the UAE, stating, “The World Kickboxing Championship in Abu Dhabi represents a pivotal achievement in our journey to host world-class sporting events. This iteration will be a landmark in kickboxing's legacy.”

He noted that this championship embodies the UAE’s principles of peace, unity, and intercultural understanding through sports and highlights Abu Dhabi's potential as a leading venue for global competitions.

The forthcoming championship in 2025 is projected to bolster Abu Dhabi's status as a premier hub for international martial arts events, promoting friendship, cultural exchange, and the advancement of kickboxing.

Both participants and spectators can anticipate a first-rate competitive environment that not only emphasizes high-caliber sporting outcomes but also reflects the UAE’s commitment to excellence and innovation in managing such events.