Abu Dhabi is about to become a major stop for international wrestling. The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and the UAE Wrestling Federation have signed a five-year deal with Real American Freestyle (RAF). This agreement brings a series of big professional wrestling events to the emirate. The first tournament is set for 14 November at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. The National reported that this marks the start of a long-term partnership between Abu Dhabi and the fast-growing wrestling league.
The opening event will feature a packed lineup. Emirati combat sports star Hamza Chimaev headlines the main event. Other global wrestling names on the card include Arman Tsarukyan, Henry Cejudo, Jordan Burroughs, Kyle Snyder, and Abdulrashid Sadulaev. Abu Dhabi is making it clear it wants the sport's top talent on its stage. According to MMA Junkie, at the time of the announcement, Chimaev's opponent and several other matchups had not yet been revealed.
Abu Dhabi will be the third international destination for Real American Freestyle in its inaugural year, following sold-out events in Tbilisi and Moscow.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Secretary General of the UAE Wrestling Federation, called the partnership a big step for wrestling in the country. "This partnership is a significant milestone in advancing wrestling in the UAE. Hosting top athletes and international events will strengthen the nation's global standing in wrestling and inspire the next generation of athletes, while supporting the sustainable growth of the sport. We look forward to working with Real American Freestyle and the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi to build a solid platform for wrestling in the UAE and create meaningful opportunities for both athletes and fans," he said. The National described the deal as a "major step" for the sport's future in the region.
Salih Mohamed Al Jaziri, Director General of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, said the deal fits the emirate's long-term vision. "This agreement reflects our approach to building strategic, long term partnerships and attracting leading international sports events." RAF said the five-year agreement aims to make RAF Abu Dhabi a "signature event" and build a lasting platform for athletes and fans in the region, as reported by The National.
Abu Dhabi has built a strong reputation as a hub for combat sports. The emirate has already hosted major events in jiu-jitsu, MMA, and judo. Recent coverage of the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Judo shows how the city has become a regular stop for world-class action. Now, with Real American Freestyle's wrestling series, Abu Dhabi is adding another top-tier sport to its calendar.
Industry media noted that the announcement of the Abu Dhabi partnership coincided with earlier reports about Khamzat Chimaev's plans to compete under the RAF banner in the emirate. However, at the time, the promotion had not officially confirmed Chimaev's opponent or bout details.
The first event is set for November, and the five-year deal gives Abu Dhabi a long runway. The emirate is not just bringing in big shows. It is investing in the facilities and exposure needed to make wrestling a permanent part of the UAE sports scene. This move puts Abu Dhabi on the map as a serious player in global wrestling. Local athletes and fans will get direct access to the sport's top stars. The close partnership between government, federation, and international organizers shows Abu Dhabi wants to shape the future of wrestling in the region-not just host it.
