Stage set for World Kickboxing Championship in Abu Dhabi

The eyes of the world turn to Abu Dhabi as it prepares to host the 2025 WAKO World Kickboxing Championship for Seniors and Masters.

Organized by the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation in cooperation with the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations, the event will take place at ADNEC Abu Dhabi with finals to be held on November 30, featuring 2,000 male and female athletes representing 150 countries across all continents.

International delegations will begin arriving in Abu Dhabi on Friday and Saturday, 21-22 November, ahead of the official opening ceremony scheduled for Sunday, at 5pm in ADNEC Hall 1

The ceremony will be attended by representatives of continental and international federations as well as participating delegations. Entry will be free for fans and martial arts enthusiasts, in accordance with approved organizational guidelines.

Official championship bouts will kick off on Monday, , and continue through Saturday, 29 November.

The competition will feature disciplines approved by the International Federation, including ring sports K1, Low Kick, Full Contact, tatami sports, Point Fighting, Light Contact, and Kick Light.

The program also includes musical and creative performance categories for Seniors and Masters, in addition to Para Kickboxing events dedicated to People of Determination, reflecting the championship’s commitment to inclusion and global sports integration.

The early days of the tournament will host preliminary and qualifying rounds, followed by semi-finals, finals, and medal ceremonies for the Masters category, as well as performances and ring/tatami disciplines. The championship will conclude on 29 November with the crowning of champions across all categories and weight divisions, after which delegations will begin departing the next day.

Ali Khouri, Executive Board Member of the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations, and Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, said:

“We welcome the delegations, national teams, and kickboxing stars from around the world to the UAE, as this championship represents a major milestone on the International Federation’s calendar and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s standing as a global capital for combat sports. We are committed to delivering an exceptional edition of the World Championship in accordance with the highest professional standards, reflecting the UAE’s excellence in event organization and elevating kickboxing’s global presence.”

He added: “The record-breaking number of participating countries and athletes confirms the international community’s confidence in the UAE’s organizational capacity and advanced infrastructure. It is also a strong motivation for us to continue hosting world-class events that cement the role of sports as a bridge between nations.”

He continued: “Hosting the WAKO World Kickboxing Championship in Abu Dhabi adds a new achievement to the UAE’s successful track record in organizing global sporting events and strengthens its position as a preferred destination for athletes and fans alike.”