In a spectacular achievement that underscores the growing global prominence of the UAE in international sports, Fujairah has officially been awarded the prestigious rights to host the 2027 FIDE World Junior Under-20 Chess Championship. This monumental decision by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) firmly establishes the emirate as a premier, highly trusted destination for staging major global events, bringing a highly anticipated Chess Championship to the heart of the Middle East.
Building on a Legacy of Excellence
Following an exhaustive and highly competitive evaluation process, Fujairah was selected to stage the coveted 2027 Chess Championship, taking the baton directly from Montenegro, which successfully hosted the 2025 edition. The decision was formally confirmed after a rigorous on-site inspection visit by Akaki Iashvili, FIDE‘s Special Tasks Director and Chairman of the Events Commission.
During his visit, Iashvili meticulously reviewed the emirate’s exceptional organisational capabilities, cutting-edge sporting facilities, and the unparalleled readiness of the Fujairah Chess and Culture Club. By successfully meeting and exceeding the federation’s stringent criteria, the emirate demonstrated beyond any doubt its capacity to host one of the most important youth tournaments on the global FIDE calendar.
World-Class Infrastructure
The International Chess Federation ultimately selected Fujairah in deep recognition of its remarkably advanced infrastructure. The centerpiece of this successful bid is the spectacular new headquarters of the Fujairah Chess and Culture Club, widely regarded as one of the region’s newest and most sophisticated purpose-built chess venues.
The club features expansive competition halls fully equipped to the highest international standards, advanced technical broadcasting facilities, and highly experienced organisational teams. Combined with a proven track record of flawlessly executing major international and continental tournaments, the venue represents the pinnacle of modern sporting architecture. Furthermore, the emirate’s seamlessly integrated hospitality and robust logistical support networks played a pivotal role in securing the winning bid.
A Testament to Visionary Leadership and Support
The significance of this milestone for the UAE’s sporting community cannot be overstated. Dr. Ismail Al Khoury, President of the UAE Chess Federation, emphasized that the Fujairah Chess and Culture Club continues to aggressively strengthen its position as a highly distinguished representative of the UAE on the international stage.
Reflecting on the deeper cultural and strategic meaning of the tournament, he stated that hosting the World Junior Chess Championship is vastly more than a mere sporting event. He noted that it “reflects professional planning, ambitious vision and the confidence placed by FIDE in the club’s capabilities and expertise.” He further expressed his absolute confidence that the championship would be organised to an impeccable standard befitting both Fujairah and the broader UAE.
Echoing this tremendous pride, Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Barakat, Chairman of the Fujairah Chess and Culture Club, credited the emirate’s leadership for making the bid a resounding success. He noted that the achievement was made possible by the unwavering, extraordinary support extended to the club and the emirate’s sports sector by H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, alongside the close, dedicated follow-up of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. According to Dr. Al Barakat, this vital support “provided all the ingredients for success and further strengthened Fujairah’s position as a global destination for hosting major sporting events.”
Preparing for a Global Spectacle
With the hosting rights now officially secured, the intensive preparation begins. Dr. Al Barakat confirmed that the club has already initiated the drafting of a highly comprehensive, meticulous organisational plan in close coordination with FIDE and the UAE Chess Federation. The ultimate goal is to deliver a Chess Championship that not only meets but utterly exceeds the highest international expectations.
He affirmed Fujairah‘s absolute readiness to deploy its full spectrum of organisational, technical, human, and logistical capabilities to ensure the phenomenal success of the event. Through this spectacular tournament, the club aims to boldly showcase the UAE’s civilisational achievements to the world and permanently consolidate the emirate’s standing as a world-class venue for major global sporting championships.
