UAE, along with Qatar spearheading chess movement in Gulf: FIDE
Tribune News Network
Stavanger (Norway)
The UAE is fast solidifying its position as a global chess hub, with legendary grandmaster Viswanathan Anand praising its dynamic growth on Wednesday on the sidelines of the ongoing Norway Chess 2025 and FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich highlighting major developments in the country, including the upcoming 2028 Chess Olympiad in Abu Dhabi.
A top regional chess hub in the making
The UAE's chess ecosystem has seen remarkable growth, with established tournaments like the Dubai Open, Sharjah Open, and Abu Dhabi Open attracting global talent.
'The UAE likes to be the centre of many things,' said Anand, a five-time World Champion and the Deputy President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) while talking to media on the second rest day of the prestigious annual tournament featuring world's top players including Magnus Carlsen and reigning world champion D Gukesh.
'They've been very active in chess, hosting events across the Emirates – Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah–and playing an important role.'
While Dvorkovich praised the UAE's expanding chess ecosystem, citing established events like the Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai Opens, as well as growing grassroots participation.
'Players love coming here, and the [UAE] national federation is very active—always thinking of new ways to promote the game,' he said, highlighting the active involvement of the UAE Chess Federation that is also home to the president of the Asian Chess Federation.
Anand also recalled his personal connection to Dubai's chess scene.
'When I was younger, tournaments in the Emirates were some of the most anticipated. The 1986 Olympiad in Dubai was a special moment — even then, Dubai was a fascinating place. I remember being amazed by an ice rink in the desert, something unheard of at the time. From my first Olympiad in '86 to today, Dubai [and UAE] have always been a special chess destination - and it just keeps getting better.'
With the 2028 Olympiad returning to the UAE, Anand noted the significance of this milestone: 'With Abu Dhabi hosting the Chess Olympiad again after 42 years shows how much the country and the region have embraced chess. It's a thrilling prospect for players and fans alike.'
2028 Olympiad &
Expo 2020 Legacy
The 2028 Chess Olympiad – set for Abu Dhabi – will mark a full-circle moment for chess in UAE 42 years after Dubai first hosted. 'It's a huge milestone,' said Dvorkovich stressing how it will further elevate the UAE's chess profile while Anand added, 'The Olympiad's return shows how far the UAE has come as a chess destination.'
While the 2021 World Championship contest between Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi during Dubai Expo 2020 demonstrated the UAE's ability to elevate chess into a global spectacle, according to the FIDE bos.
'Dubai made it an international event, not just a local competition – that's what the city does best,' Dvorkovich,remarked, highlighting the UAE's unique capacity to amplify the sport's profile.
New generation
takes the board
And for both, the emergence of 15-year-old Rouda Al Sarkal as the Gulf's first WGM has become a symbol of the UAE's chess ambitions. Her recent strong performances in international competitions, including three consecutive wins in her maiden campaign in the open category of Norway Chess, have captured attention far beyond chess circles.
'It's a wonderful surprise to see a young talent like Rouda breaking barriers,' said Anand.
'Her success has the potential to inspire countless girls across the region. It could be a game-changer for chess in the Middle East.
Dvorkovich noted the systematic approach behind such achievements: 'More children are joining clubs and receiving quality coaching - this structured development is producing results.'
Gulf region's expanding chess footprint
But the Gulf's chess momentum extends beyond the UAE, according to the former Russian Deputy PM, with Qatar playing a leading role.
Mohammed Al Mudahka, President of the Qatar Chess Association and a FIDE Director, has been instrumental in elevating chess in the region, most notably by organising the renowned Qatar Masters tournament.
This December, Doha will host the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships for the first time, following last year's event in New York. 'This is huge for the region,' Dvorkovich said.
'More wild cards will be given to players from the Gulf, and local spectators will experience world-class chess in a spectacular venue.'
While Saudi Arabia remains focused on esports for now, Dvorkovich hinted at future collaborations, all eyes are on the UAE and Qatar as they lead the region's chess surge.
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