UFC & Abu Dhabi’s Department Of Culture And Tourism Extend Their Partnership Until 2028
The UFC has extended its deal with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism until 2028.
According to reports, the UFC has held 18 events in the area after the two organizations first began working together in 2019. The deal will involve the UFC having one pay-per-view show, that includes a title fight every year, as well as having Fight Night events in the Middle East/North Africa. As of now, the UFC is preparing to stage their UFC 294 event featuring Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski for the lightweight title in Abu Dhabi. HE Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, who happens to be the Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, had this to say in response.
“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.”
The move also follows the recent news that the UFC will host its first event in Saudi Arabia next year. A fight is expected to take place on March 2nd, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena. However, an opponent has yet to be confirmed. But once again, the move shows the UFC’s global reach, which will be vital following the PFL’s $100+ million investment via the Saudi Public Investment Fund through SRJ Sports Investments. In response to the Abu Dhabi partnership, this is what Dana White had to say.
“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 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. I love it here,” White