Dubai Honors International Chess Day

The Dubai Chess and Culture Club marked international Chess Day on July 20 with a vibrant celebration. The event featured a variety of activities designed for all ages, demonstrating the club’s commitment to fostering a love for the game.

A “kidnapped” chess championship was held for participants U14 and in the open category. Alongside the intense matches, attendees enjoyed arts and drawing activities, a chess microcosm, and general knowledge competitions about the game.

In the open category of the championship, a close competition saw three players tied with eight points. Ultimately, Iranian International Master Asina Julizadeh secured first place.Philippine International Master Joel Pimintel took second, and 10-year-old Indian prodigy Muhammad Shayan impressed with a strong performance, gaining 96 rating points.

Special awards recognized outstanding players. Mohamed Moussa was honored as the best veteran player over 50. Indian Muhammad Seifan received the award for best U15 player,while Uzbek Shahnuza Sabrova was recognized as the best female player. Indian Rana Fifan earned the award for the best player without a rating of 2000 points.

A total of 115 players from 19 countries participated, including 11 with international titles. The U14 children’s championship saw 126 players from 12 countries compete. Syrian Mayar Mahfouz claimed first place with eight points, edging out Indian Muhammad Shayan on tiebreaks.

Following Mahfouz were Indian Sarish Shetty, Indian Muhammad Saifan, and Iranian Asina Julizadeh. The fierce competition highlighted the growing talent in youth chess.

Saeed Youssef Shoukry, Secretary-General of the Dubai Chess and Culture Club and an international referee, congratulated the global chess community. He emphasized the club’s dedication to participating in this annual event, which draws wide participation across age groups.

Shoukry highlighted chess’s significant role in developing educational, mental, and psychological aspects of players. he also praised the young national team members who managed the competitions efficiently.

The organizing team included International Referees Majid Al Abdouli and Salman Al Taher, alongside local arbiters Hamad Al Shizawi, sultan Muhammad Farid, Hamid Ahmed, Ali Abdulaziz, and Nour al Bastaki. Shoukry expressed gratitude to all participating players and their parents for their contributions to the event’s success.

What initiatives are being undertaken to introduce chess to new players in Dubai, especially beginners?

A City’s Growing Passion for teh Royal Game

Dubai has increasingly become a global hub for sports and cultural events, and its recognition of International Chess Day on July 20th is a testament to this. This year, 2025, marks another critically important celebration of the game of chess within the United Arab Emirates, showcasing a growing community of players and enthusiasts. The city’s commitment extends beyond simple acknowledgement, encompassing tournaments, educational initiatives, and a rising profile for chess as a competitive sport.

Key Events & Celebrations in 2025

Dubai’s 2025 International Chess Day celebrations are multifaceted, catering to all skill levels. here’s a breakdown of key events:

Dubai Open Chess Tournament: A major FIDE-rated tournament attracting international grandmasters and amateur players alike. this year’s event, held at the Dubai Chess & Culture Club, boasts a significant prize pool and promises intense competition. Registration opened in June and closes July 15th.

Simultaneous Exhibition wiht Grandmasters: Several renowned grandmasters are scheduled to participate in simultaneous exhibition matches, offering local players the unique possibility to test their skills against world-class opponents.

Chess Workshops for Beginners: The Dubai Chess Academy is hosting a series of free chess workshops throughout the week, designed to introduce the game to newcomers of all ages. These workshops cover basic rules, strategy, and tactics.

School Chess Programs: Increased investment in school chess programs is a key focus. The Dubai Education Zone is partnering with chess organizations to provide training and equipment to schools across the emirate, fostering the next generation of chess players.

Online Chess Blitz Tournament: A popular online blitz tournament is being hosted on lichess.org, allowing players from across the UAE and beyond to participate remotely.

The Rise of Chess in the UAE: A Ancient Outlook

While chess has been played in the region for centuries,its organized development in the UAE is relatively recent.

1. Early 1970s: The first formal chess clubs began to emerge in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
2. 1976: The UAE Chess Federation was established, marking a turning point in the game’s organization and promotion.
3. 2000s: Increased investment in chess infrastructure, including dedicated chess clubs and training facilities.
4. 2010s – Present: Dubai has successfully hosted several international chess events,including the World Junior Chess championship in 2013 and various FIDE-rated tournaments. this has substantially raised the profile of chess in the region.

Benefits of Chess: Beyond the Game Board

The popularity of chess isn’t solely due to its intellectual challenge. The game offers a wide range of cognitive and social benefits:

Improved Cognitive Skills: Chess enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning abilities.

enhanced Memory & Concentration: Regular chess play strengthens memory and improves focus.

Increased Creativity: Chess encourages players to think outside the box and develop innovative strategies.

Emotional Intelligence: learning to handle wins and losses gracefully fosters emotional resilience.

Social Interaction: Chess clubs and tournaments provide opportunities for social interaction and community building.

Dubai’s Chess Infrastructure: Clubs & Academies

Dubai boasts a robust chess infrastructure, supporting players of all levels.

Dubai chess & Culture Club: The premier chess club in Dubai,hosting tournaments,training sessions,and social events.

Dubai Chess Academy: Offers thorough chess training programs for children and adults, led by experienced coaches.

Emirates Chess Federation: The governing body for chess in the UAE, responsible for promoting the game and organizing national tournaments.

Various School Chess Clubs: A growing network of chess clubs within schools,providing opportunities for students to learn and compete.

Practical Tips for Getting Involved

Interested in joining the chess community in Dubai? here are a few tips:

Join a Chess Club: The Dubai Chess & Culture Club is a great place to start.

Take Chess Lessons: The Dubai Chess Academy offers lessons for all skill levels.

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