UAE’s Salem Abdulrahman impresses at ASEAN E-Sports Chess Cup

Grandmaster Salem Abdulrahman, a player for the UAE national team and Sharjah Cultural Chess Club, achieved a new milestone for Emirati chess by securing fifth place in the ASEAN E-Sports Chess Cup, held in the Thailand’s capital Bangkok, with the participation of 22 elite players from around the world, including world champion Norwegian Magnus Carlsen.

The tournament was held with the support of the Thai Chess Federation and government digital innovation initiatives, as part of efforts to promote mind sports and benefit from modern technologies. It served as a unique platform combining the traditional strategy of chess with advanced electronic competition environments, attracting top international players.

Salem Abdulrahman delivered a strong performance throughout the competition, topping Group B with 3.5 points after achieving three wins and one draw without any defeat, confirming his technical readiness and ability to compete with top players.

The UAE champion continued his impressive form in the group stage, benefiting from his extensive experience and strong mental focus, successfully advancing to the quarterfinals on merit and once again proving his status as one of Asia’s leading chess players.

In the quarter-finals, Salem faced a tough match against Mexican Grandmaster Martinez Alcantara, which ended in favor of the Mexican player, bringing his journey in the tournament to an end at that stage. He ultimately secured fifth place in the overall standings.

This achievement reflects the continued presence of Emirati chess on the international stage and reaffirms the distinguished status of Salem Abdulrahman globally, as one of the most prominent Arab and Asian players capable of competing in top international tournaments and challenging elite players.

Faisal Al Hamadi, Board Member of Sharjah Cultural Chess Club, praised Salem Abdulrahman’s result in the championship, affirming that the player continues to represent Emirati chess honorably in various international events.

Al Hamadi said: “Salem Abdulrahman is one of the most prominent ambassadors of Emirati chess. What he achieved in a tournament featuring some of the world’s best players confirms his high technical level and his consistent ability to compete at the highest levels. We are proud of his outstanding performance throughout the tournament, especially topping his group undefeated, which reflects his experience and professionalism.”

He added: “At Sharjah Cultural Chess Club, we are committed to providing full support to our distinguished players. We look forward to continuing to achieve success and raise the name of the UAE and Sharjah Club in various continental and international tournaments. These strong participations also give our players valuable experience and contribute to strengthening the presence of Emirati chess on the international stage.”