2nd December Chess Festival fosters union and help future stars, says Abdullah Rashid

The Al Ain Chess and Mental Games Club successfully concluded the Classic Chess Championship as part of the 2nd of December Chess Festival, held in conjunction with the UAE’s National Day celebrations.

The event took place in a competitive atmosphere, showcasing high-level technical performances.

The championship followed a classic chess format over seven rounds, with intense competition continuing until the final round.

The results of the 2nd of December Classic Chess Championship were as follows: In the main competition, Gaith Saeed Al-Nuaimi claimed 1st place, followed by Mohammed Saeed Al-Shamsi in 2nd, and Khalifa Talal Al-Blooshi securing 3rd. In the special awards, Shaikha Nasser Al Shamsi was named the best female player, while Ali Rashid Al-Qamzi earned the title of best male player.

The tournament also highlighted exceptional young talents across various age categories: Saad Jaber Al-Ahbabi topped the under-14 category, with Fatima Nasser Al-Shamsi awarded the best female player in the same age group. In the under-12 category, Ahmed Younis Al-Khamiri was recognized as the best player, while Mariam Al-Kindi took home the best female player award. For the under-10s, Zayed Al-Ali was named the best player, and Moza Al-Kindi won the best female player award. Finally, in the under-8 category, Mohammed Musbah Al-Kaabi was honored as the best male player, with Al-Anoud Al-Nuaimi recognized as the best female player.

In a statement, Abdullah Rashid Al-Rashidi, Vice President of the Al Ain Chess and Mental Games Club, confirmed that organising the 2nd of December Classic Chess Championship is a reflection of the club’s commitment to celebrating national occasions through mental sports, supporting chess talents, and reinforcing values of union and belonging.

He noted that these tournaments contribute to the development of players’ skills and elevate the club's standing as a leading community sports platform.

In this context, the Al Ain Chess and Mental Games Club announced its upcoming tournament as part of the 2nd of December Chess Festival: the Rapid Chess Championship, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, December 27 and 28, 2025, at the club's headquarters in Al Ain. This event continues the celebration of UAE National Day and reflects the club's dedication to linking sports activities with national events and promoting community participation.

The championship concluded with an awards ceremony for the winners and top performers, receiving praise for the technical and organizational standards of the 2nd of December Chess Festival, one of the club’s most prominent chess events celebrating this cherished national occasion.