Surf Abu Dhabi hosts first WSL Championship Tour event

Surf Abu Dhabi has completed the hosting of the Abu Dhabi Pro, bringing many of the world's top surfers to compete on the man-made wave at the Hudayriyat Island facility over three days of competition.

Staged from 14th to 16th February, against the backdrop of the city’s skyline, the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro marked the Middle East's first time hosting of a World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour event.

Commenting on staging the event, Surf Abu Dhabi General Manager, Ryan Watkins advised “hosting Surf Abu Dhabi Pro in the World Surf League Championship Tour is a major milestone in the sport and elevates Abu Dhabi to a prominent position within the global surfing landscape, alongside iconic destinations like Hawaii and Australia.

“It's a source of immense pride and signifies Abu Dhabi's commitment to innovation as well as its emergence as a dynamic hub for sports, tourism, and entertainment.

“By showcasing the world's best surfers in a region not traditionally associated with the sport, the event generates significant interest and awareness, inspiring potential new surfers.”

WSL Chief Executive, Ryan Crosby added “the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro will be an incredible showcase of world-class surfing in a truly unique setting. This facility really is incredible, and it's been a pleasure to work with the Surf Abu Dhabi team in the lead-up to this event.”

The event also featured local food trucks, a rooftop bar, live music and entertainment from regional and international bands, family-friendly activities and a vibrant market in the adjacent Surf Village.

The womens and mens events were won, respectively, by Caity Simmers of the USA and Italo Ferreira of Brazil.

Surf Abu Dhabi, developed by Modon Holding, was created in collaboration with Kelly Slater and features technology powered by Kelly Slater's WaveCo.

The attraction features the world's longest ride, the world's biggest barrel, together with the world's highest man-made wave.

Image: Caity Simmers of the USA won the womens WSL event at the  Abu Dhabi Pro (top, credit: WSL) and Surf Abu Dhabi General Manager Ryan Watkins (below, credit: Surf Abu Dhabi).