UFC extends Abu Dhabi partnership until 2028

ABU DHABI: The UFC and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi have extended their partnership, which will see the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization bringing championship and other bouts to the emirate every year.

The new partnership will expand to include additional Fight Night events, which will take place across the Middle East and North Africa region.

The UFC, or Ultimate Fighting Championship, part of the listed TKO Group Holdings, has a longstanding relationship with Abu Dhabi, with 18 events having been held in the region since 2010.

The two sides entered a formal partnership in 2019, and since then, some of the biggest names in combat sports have competed in the UAE capital. This includes former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, who defended his title multiple times in Abu Dhabi, former two-weight world champion Conor McGregor, and former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya.

Over the term of the original deal, nine title fights have taken place showcasing top-tier global talent, entertaining viewers all over the world and growing the sport of MMA across the MENA region.

“Bringing UFC to Abu Dhabi each year has proved hugely popular, with MMA fans coming to the emirate from all over the world to watch the biggest and best fights in the sport,” said Saood Abdulaziz Al-Hosani, undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi.

“Over a 15-year relationship, UFC has extended its global reach and Abu Dhabi has established itself as a world capital for combat sports. Renewing our partnership with UFC allows us to continue to stage major events that thrill visitors and residents. We are excited to extend the relationship and innovate together to grow this sport in the UAE and wider region.”  

Dana