UFC to return to Abu Dhabi next month

An artist rendition of what the arena will look like for the Fight Island venue to be held on Abu Dhabi's Yas Island. Courtesy DCT - Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi has been confirmed as host of the UFC’s historic Fight Island next month, in a groundbreaking collaboration with the world’s lead mixed martial arts promotion.

The fight festival, which will feature four fight nights beginning with the pay-per-view UFC 251 on July 11, will take place at an existing venue on Yas Island, with a specifically marked "safe zone" housing everyone connected to the event.

After July 11, events will fall on July 15, 18 and 25. Given the restrictions in place because of the coronavirus pandemic, fans will not be able to attend.

The UFC and the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) released a joint statement late on Tuesday to confirm their latest alliance.

UFC president Dana White said: “We came up with the idea of having fights on ‘Fight Island’ because we needed a destination to hold international events during the global pandemic. Abu Dhabi has been an amazing location to hold fights over the past 10 years and it is the perfect place for these events."

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “This year, Abu Dhabi has successfully proven its ability to handle all challenges and promote the well-being of its visitors and residents. And today, we are here to showcase the best that our capital has to offer, as we look forward to opening our doors once again to the world.”

DCT Abu Dhabi told The National that they expect to have more than 2,500 people staying on site during the event, but only those deemed essential to its operation. They anticipate fighters will arrive in Abu Dhabi towards the end of this month.