UFC returns to Abu Dhabi

UFC has announced its return to Abu Dhabi for UFC 294 on October 21 as the world’s best mixed martial artists face off once again at the Etihad Arena.

It will be the latest event to be held in the UAE capital as part of a landmark partnership, launched in 2019, between the world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation and the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

The fight card is yet to be announced, but the event will be headlined by a highly anticipated championship title bout.

Last year, a sold-out Etihad Arena witnessed Islam Makhachev become the lightweight champion, when he defeated Charles Oliveira via second round stoppage at UFC 280.

UFC 294 will mark the 18th event UFC has held in Abu Dhabi since UFC 112 in 2010, when legend Anderson Silva squared off against Brazilian compatriot Demian Maia.

Since then, some of the biggest names in MMA have performed in the UAE capital including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya, and Khamzat Chimaev.

"Abu Dhabi has been such an important part of the UFC’s overall business for years, and we have seen some incredible events during that time. We have some big plans in store for UFC 294, and I can’t wait for another insane night of fights in October," said UFC President Dana White.

"We understand the passion and desire of fans in the region for world-class events and together we constantly strive to deliver fight cards that appeal to as wide an audience as possible," added Saleh Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi.

It's official - we're headed back to Abu Dhabi in October for #UFC294!!

🎟 Register your interest: https://t.co/FklxNLCaHo@VisitAbuDhabi | @InAbuDhabi | #InAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/8WWqhPlaLh

— UFC (@ufc) March 16, 2023