MMA in the Middle East: A Region on the Rise
A Rapidly Growing Market
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has surged in global popularity over the past two decades, and the Middle East has quickly become one of the sport’s most promising new frontiers. Once viewed as a niche interest, MMA is now embraced by governments, investors, and fans across the region. Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar are not only hosting major events but also building grassroots programs to cultivate local fighters.
This momentum is fueled by a combination of cultural appreciation for combat sports, a youthful population hungry for entertainment, and significant investment from state-backed sports initiatives.
The Role of the UAE and Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has established itself as the epicenter of MMA in the Middle East. The city made headlines in 2010 when it hosted UFC 112, the first UFC event in the region. Since then, the Abu Dhabi government has doubled down, creating the UAE Warriors promotion, heavily investing in local gyms, and hosting multiple UFC “Fight Island” events during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The government-backed Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) circuit also serves as a pipeline for grapplers transitioning into MMA, making the city both a global hub for events and fighter development.
Saudi Arabia’s Bold Entrance
Saudi Arabia, as part of its Vision 2030 initiative, has rapidly become a player in the combat sports scene. Known for hosting high-profile boxing mega-events, the Kingdom has now turned its attention toward MMA. In 2023, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) signed a major deal with Saudi’s Public Investment Fund, making Riyadh a central player in shaping the global MMA landscape.
The move signals that Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a rival to Abu Dhabi, not only by attracting big-name fighters but also by building an entertainment ecosystem around combat sports.
Bahrain and KHK MMA
Bahrain has been quietly but effectively building MMA from the grassroots up. Under the patronage of Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, KHK MMA and the BRAVE Combat Federation have provided a platform for fighters across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. BRAVE CF, launched in 2016, has hosted over 70 events in 30+ countries, making it one of the fastest-expanding MMA promotions in the world.
This has put Bahrain on the global map not just as a host but as an exporter of MMA talent and events.
Grassroots Development and Local Fighters
While international promotions grab headlines, the real story lies in the region’s investment in local talent. Programs in the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia are nurturing young fighters through wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and boxing academies. Many athletes are now crossing over from Olympic sports such as wrestling and judo into MMA.
Stars like Mounir Lazzez (Tunisia/UAE) and Mohammad Yahya (UAE) have become role models for aspiring fighters, showing that Middle Eastern athletes can succeed on the world stage.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the progress, MMA in the Middle East faces hurdles. Developing a sustainable fan base outside of major events remains a challenge, as does ensuring fighters receive the training and competition needed to reach elite levels. Additionally, balancing traditional cultural values with the often brutal image of MMA requires careful framing.
The Future of MMA in the Middle East
With strong government backing, private investment, and a rapidly growing fan base, MMA in the Middle East is here to stay. The next decade could see the region not only as a host for international cards but also as a breeding ground for world champions.
The question is no longer whether the Middle East can become a hub for MMA—it’s how soon it will rival established markets like North America, Brazil, and Europe.
