UFC extends deal for Abu Dhabi fight deal for five more years

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have announced an extension of their longstanding events deal through an expanded contract that will also take in the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Announced in advance of UFC 294 being held at a sold-out Etihad Arena on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island tomorrow (21st October), the deal between the mixed martial arts event business and Abu Dhabi tourism will run through to 2028 and will continue to see the UFC bring one numbered event featuring a championship bout to the UAE every year.

Speaking at a press conference announcing the extended partnership yesterday, UFC Chief Executive, Dana White stated “Abu Dhabi is one of my favourite places in the world; the people, the restaurants, the hotels, it’s incredible.

“I have been so excited to be able to put on some of the biggest fights in the history of the UFC in Abu Dhabi and it’s only going to get even bigger from here with additional Fight Nights coming to the region next year.”

While specifics of the new deal have not been released, it is understood to include additional Fight Night cards in Arabian Gulf and North African nations.

It follows the Saudi General Entertainment Authority announcing last week that it will host its first UFC card next year - to take place on 2nd March 2024 as part of the Riyadh Season festival.

White also noted that UFC is in talks with Egypt and Qatar, among other destinations, regarding hosting Fight Nights.

UFC has a longstanding relationship with Abu Dhabi, with 18 events having been held in the region since 2010. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the partnership was expanded as Abu Dhabi hosted three separate series of Fight Island events at a time when sport around the world was shutting down.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, noted “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.

“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.”

Image: UFC Fight Island action at Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena. Credit: Etihad Arena.