UAE to host World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025 in Fujairah
Event to bring together more than 800 athletes from 93 countries across five days
DUBAI: Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, the World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025 are set to take place in Fujairah from 10 to 14 May.
The announcement was made at a press conference hosted in Fujairah by the Higher Organising Committee in collaboration with World Taekwondo officials.
The event is expected to attract unprecedented global attention, with a record 811 cadet athletes aged 12 to 14 representing 93 countries.
Global taekwondo championship
For the first time, the Emirate of Fujairah will host a taekwondo championship of this scale, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s sporting landscape. The five-day tournament will be staged at Zayed Sports Complex, offering world-class facilities tailored to the international standards set by World Taekwondo. Ten weight categories will be contested across both male and female divisions, with male athletes ranging from under 33kg to over 65kg and female athletes from under 29kg to over 59kg.
Global participation
Dr Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, President of the UAE Taekwondo Federation, and a member of World Taekwondo, stated that the championship aligns with the long-term vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi to establish Fujairah as a premier destination for global sports. Dr Al Zeyoudi confirmed that preparations for the event have been finalised in accordance with the highest international standards.
Joining him at the press conference were leading figures from World Taekwondo, including President Dr Choue Chung-won, Secretary General Jeongkang Seo, Technical Delegate Philippe Bouedo, and Event Director Nader Abu Shawish. The officials provided insight into the championship's organisational aspects, athlete participation, and the strategic role this tournament plays in promoting taekwondo among youth globally.
Notably, the championship will also include competitors from the World Taekwondo Refugee Team, Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN), and participants competing under the World Taekwondo flag highlighting the inclusive and humanitarian ethos of the event.
Humanitarian spirit
Dr Choue Chung-won commended Fujairah’s infrastructure and the UAE’s continued support for sports development. “The World Taekwondo Cadet Championships 2025 in Fujairah will be the largest of its kind globally, with participation exceeding 800 athletes,” he remarked. “The inclusion of a refugee team brings a meaningful humanitarian dimension to the championship, reaffirming the sport’s role in bridging cultures and fostering peace.”
He also emphasised the importance of this platform for discovering emerging talent and strengthening taekwondo’s international profile. The convergence of young athletes from diverse backgrounds serves not only the competitive aspect but also promotes cultural exchange and unity through sport.
Local impact
Event Director Nader Abu Shawish underlined the developmental benefits for local athletes. “This event presents a valuable opportunity for our young players to engage with the best emerging talent globally. It is a powerful step forward for the sport in the region,” he said.
He added that the Higher Organising Committee is committed to delivering a memorable experience for athletes, officials, and spectators, while spotlighting the UAE’s rising profile in the global sports arena. The participation of the local community and government stakeholders is expected to play a crucial role in the success of the event.
The list of sponsors for the championship includes leading telecom company e& and Fujairah Investment Company. Key partners involved in the event include the Ministry of Sports and the Fujairah Police General Headquarters, both ensuring the smooth execution of operations and logistics.
Before the championship officially begins, World Taekwondo will also convene an Extraordinary Council Meeting on 9 May in Fujairah. Discussions during the meeting will include the future allocation of World Taekwondo events, further solidifying the UAE’s growing influence in international sport governance.