When the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) entered its long-term partnership with the UFC in 2019, the objective was clear: to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for combat sports. Since then, the emirate has hosted more than 20 major UFC events, introduced the world to the now-iconic Fight Island during the pandemic, and produced some of the sport’s most unforgettable moments. UFC President Dana White famously described Abu Dhabi as the “fight capital of the world,” a statement that resonates even more powerfully six years later.
The emirate’s vision extends far beyond staging headline events. Its strategy is built on legacy—nurturing emerging athletes, developing regional talent, and embedding mixed martial arts (MMA) firmly within the region’s sporting culture. Through elite training facilities, community programmes, and global-standard events, Abu Dhabi has become a place where the sport thrives and future champions are inspired.
No story captures this ambition better than that of Khamzat Chimaev. His UFC debut came in Abu Dhabi in July 2020 at UFC FIGHT NIGHT: KATTAR vs IGE, where he submitted John Phillips in dominant fashion. Ten days later, he returned for UFC FIGHT NIGHT: WHITTAKER vs TILL, stopping Rhys McKee in the first round to set a UFC record for the fastest turnaround between fights. He was back in Abu Dhabi in October 2021 for UFC 267: BLACHOWICZ vs TEIXEIRA, where he defeated Li Jingliang via first-round submission. Four years on, after competing in five of his eight UFC fights in Abu Dhabi and representing the UAE flag, Chimaev reached a career peak at UFC 319 in Chicago, claiming the UFC middleweight title with a victory over Dricus du Plessis to extend his undefeated run to 15-0. His rise stands as a symbol of Abu Dhabi’s commitment to cultivating world-class talent and shaping the future of MMA.
Commenting on Abu Dhabi’s global MMA vision, His Excellency Saleh Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi has become a global stage where athletes showcase their talents and fans witness unforgettable sporting moments. Our long-standing partnership with UFC supports our vision to position the emirate as the international home of martial arts and a destination for world-class sports. By hosting iconic events, inspiring new audiences, and creating opportunities for athletes at every level, we are continuing to grow Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub for sport, culture, and tourism.”
In 2023, DCT Abu Dhabi and UFC extended their partnership, reflecting the success of the joint venture and a strategic vision for the growth of MMA in the emirate. Under the agreement, UFC brings one numbered event, featuring a championship bout, to Abu Dhabi each year, along with UFC Fight Night which is also hosted annually in the emirate.
As DCT Abu Dhabi continues to bring international sports to the capital, MMA sits at the heart of these endeavours; broadening the horizons of athletes and fans alike. In July, the city hosted UFC FIGHT NIGHT: WHITTAKER vs DE RIDDER and is now preparing for UFC 321: ASPINALL vs GANE on 25 October. Taking place as ever inside the Etihad Arena, the event will see Tom Aspinall defend his heavyweight title for the first time against Ciryl Gane. Limited tickets are available at ticketmaster.ae and etihadarena.ae.