The UAE Kickboxing Championship (Seniors Category) is set to commence on Friday, September 11, at the Mubadala Dome within Abu Dhabi’s Al Jazira Sports Club. This event serves as the inaugural competition of the 2026–27 domestic sporting calendar, operating under the banner of the “Emirates Champions Season.” Organized by the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, the tournament spans three days, concluding on Sunday, September 13, and represents the first major title contest of the year on home soil.
Athletes will compete across four distinct disciplines governed by the World Association of Kickboxing (WAKO) regulations. These include Point Fight and Kick Light, which take place on the tatami, as well as Low Kick and K-1, which are contested in the ring. The event schedule begins with medical examinations and weigh-ins on Wednesday from 4pm to 8pm at the Federation’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Preliminary bouts are slated for Friday between 3pm and 8pm, with the semi-finals following on Saturday. The competition wraps up on Sunday with finals and podium ceremonies held from 12pm to 8pm.
As the opening chapter of the Emirates Champions Season, this event acts as a critical benchmark for clubs, academies, and individual competitors. It provides the first opportunity to measure national preparation levels and establishes the competitive standard for a calendar that extends through June 2027. The broader Emirates Champions Season encompasses nine national championships and a wide array of Muay Thai and Kickboxing events across all age groups, designed to foster consistent development and technical growth.
Ali Khouri, a Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it reflects the sport’s ongoing expansion within the country. He emphasized that the championship offers athletes an early chance to gain official competitive exposure and refine their technical readiness for the upcoming season. Khouri expressed anticipation for high-level performances that demonstrate the progress made by local clubs and academies, noting that the four-discipline format allows participants to test their skills in a professional environment.
Looking ahead, Khouri reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to hosting regular championships that allow athletes to showcase their capabilities. He stated that these efforts are essential for refining talent and strengthening the competitive standing of UAE Kickboxing on both regional and international stages. Established in May 2017, the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation serves as the official governing body for both sports in the Emirates, dedicated to building the technical and community foundations necessary for national team success at the highest amateur and professional levels. The report also notes that he added: “We are looking forward to strong technical performances that reflect the development of our athletes and the depth of the work being done inside our clubs and academies. The report also notes that the championship gives every participant the chance to test their abilities and grow their experience in a properly organised competitive environment.”, with four disciplines on show.
