Emirati officials played a central role in Amman as Nasser Abdul Razzaq Al Razouqi, President of both the Asian and UAE Karate Federations and Vice President of the international body, led meetings that will shape karate's future in Asia. The timing coincided with the 24th Asian Youth, Junior and U21 Championships, held from 8 to 11 September 2026 at Arena Hall in Al Hussein Youth City. Top regional officials gathered to discuss the sport's main challenges and opportunities. According to coverage by WKF and Petra, the event is a key date on the Asian karate calendar.
Al Razouqi's involvement went beyond ceremony. The executive and general assembly sessions, attended by Antonio Espinós, President of the World Karate Federation, and figures such as Rashid Abdulmajid and Dr. Ibrahim Al Qannas, focused on practical reforms. Topics included expanding youth participation, addressing structural issues, and reviewing the schedule of continental competitions. The idea of Jordan hosting a World Karate League event next year was also discussed. On 7 September 2026, final preparatory meetings between the Jordanian Minister of Youth and the leadership of WKF and AKF confirmed that the tournament was nearly ready, as reported by Petra and Ammonnews.
"HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein officially opened the 24th Asian Karate Championship on 8 September 2026 at Arena Hall in Al Hussein Youth City, highlighting Jordan's commitment to hosting high-profile sporting events."
- Jordan Times
The UAE national team, with both male and female athletes, has finished its final preparations for the Asian Youth Championships and is aiming for podium finishes. Al Razouqi visited the team's training sessions, encouraging athletes to give their best and expressing confidence in their ability to represent the UAE. The championship, using the hashtag #KarateAmman2026, is part of a busy September for the World Karate Federation and is seen as an important event for the region.
Espinós publicly credited Al Razouqi and the UAE's ongoing investment for the progress in Asian karate, a view echoed in official statements and specialist publications. The UAE's technical presence is clear: Ibrahim Al Nuaimi, a member of the UAE Federation's board and the Asian competitions committee, and Jaber Jassim Al Zaabi, head of referees for the UAE and deputy chair of the continental referees committee, are both involved in running the championship. Mahmoud Al Sayed, representing the UAE on the Asian competitions committee, adds to the federation's influence in shaping the competition's structure.
Emirati delegates also met with Prince Faisal bin Al Hussein, President of the Jordan Olympic Committee, strengthening diplomatic and sporting ties that could lead to future hosting opportunities and joint projects. The UAE's approach combines governance, technical expertise, and athlete development to secure a leading role in Asian karate.
"The first results from the championship have already emerged: on 9 September 2026, Malaysia secured gold in the junior women's kata, confirming that the tournament is actively shaping the medal table. Official reports also highlight the participation of key figures such as Antonio Espinós, Maj. Gen. Nasser Al-Razouqi, Ibrahim Al-Qannas, and Rashid Al-Ali in the event's organization and oversight."
- Bernama
The meetings in Amman reflect a shift in influence and ambition. The UAE is moving from participant to agenda-setter, using its organizational and technical strengths to push the sport forward. For athletes, this means clearer pathways and higher expectations. For the region, it sets a new standard of leadership that others will need to match to keep up with the UAE's pace.
