The 31st edition of the Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival has officially begun with a grand opening ceremony led by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. The festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, marks another proud moment in the UAE’s growing journey of promoting sports, culture, and coexistence.

The event was launched with a symbolic first move powered by artificial intelligence (AI), showing the beautiful balance between the ancient game of chess and modern technology. The opening was attended by leading sports and chess officials from the UAE, along with dignitaries and experts from Gulf and Arab nations.

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A Record-Breaking Festival with Global Participation

This year’s festival is the largest in the history of Abu Dhabi chess events. Nearly 3,000 players from 82 different countries have arrived in the capital city to take part in this mega event. Players of all ages, from beginners to world-class grandmasters, are competing in 27 separate tournaments, making it one of the most diverse and exciting editions of the festival so far.

The highlight of the event is the Masters Championship, which attracts top-ranked players from around the world. Alongside it, there are tournaments for juniors, amateurs, and community members, ensuring that everyone from children to professionals has a chance to enjoy the spirit of competition.

New Additions: Checkers, Dominoes, and Fischer Chess

One of the most interesting features of this year’s edition is the introduction of three new mind games competitions. These include:

• Checkers – a classic board game that tests strategy and quick decision-making.

• Dominoes – a traditional game loved across cultures, now brought into the festival to encourage participation from different communities.

• Fischer Chess (Chess960) – a creative version of chess invented by world champion Bobby Fischer, where the starting positions of the pieces are randomized, adding unpredictability and excitement.

By including these new events, the festival highlights that the spirit of mind games goes beyond just chess. It celebrates thinking skills, strategy, patience, and creativity across multiple platforms.

Venue and Organization

The festival is being held at two of Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious locations — Radisson Blu Hotel and St. Regis Hotel. Both venues have been specially prepared to welcome thousands of players, families, coaches, and fans.

The festival is organized by the Abu Dhabi Chess and Mind Games Club and takes place under the supervision of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Together, these organizations have worked hard to make sure the event runs smoothly, providing the best experience for both local and international participants.

A Prize Fund to Inspire Players

To make the competition even more exciting, the organizers have announced a prize fund of AED 500,000. This large prize pool is not only an attraction for top-level chess professionals but also a source of encouragement for young and upcoming players.

The financial rewards underline Abu Dhabi’s commitment to supporting sports talents and helping the next generation of thinkers and leaders rise on the global stage.

Symbolism of the First Move with Artificial Intelligence

The opening ceremony’s most remarkable highlight was the first move of the tournament, made using artificial intelligence. This symbolic gesture reflects the UAE’s vision of combining tradition with modern innovation.

Chess, a game that dates back over a thousand years, stands as a symbol of strategy, patience, and intellectual strength. By introducing AI into the opening act, the festival shows how the modern world of technology can blend with timeless human skills. It is also a nod to the UAE’s leadership in embracing AI and future technologies across every sector.

Promoting Tolerance, Coexistence, and Culture Through Chess

For Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, this event is not just about chess. It is also about spreading the values of tolerance, peace, and coexistence, which lie at the heart of the UAE’s culture.

The presence of players from 82 countries under one roof reflects unity in diversity. Despite cultural and language differences, all participants share one common passion: the love for chess and mind games. This makes the Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival not only a sporting event but also a global gathering for friendship, cultural exchange, and harmony.

Growth of Chess in Abu Dhabi

Over the years, Abu Dhabi has become a global hub for chess. The city regularly hosts major tournaments that attract international attention. The success of this 31st edition highlights the consistent efforts of the Abu Dhabi Chess and Mind Games Club and the government’s long-term vision to place the UAE among the world leaders in intellectual sports.

The festival also inspires thousands of children in the UAE to take up chess, improving their critical thinking, memory, patience, and problem-solving skills. Schools and academies in Abu Dhabi have been actively encouraging young students to participate in chess as part of their personal and educational growth.

What Makes This Year’s Edition Special?

Several factors make the 2025 edition stand out:

1. Historic Participation – The highest number of countries and players ever.

2. Multiple Tournaments – 27 separate competitions for professionals, amateurs, and juniors.

3. Introduction of New Games – Checkers, dominoes, and Fischer Chess included for the first time.

4. Strong Prize Fund – AED 500,000 to motivate and reward talents.

5. Blending of Tradition and Technology – AI-powered first move showing innovation.

6. Focus on Tolerance and Unity – Reflecting the UAE’s values through sports.

The festival will run until 24 August 2025, offering two weeks of exciting competitions, cultural exchanges, and celebrations of intellectual sports. Visitors and chess enthusiasts can look forward to world-class matches, community activities, and opportunities to learn more about chess from some of the greatest minds in the game.

With its perfect mix of history, innovation, sportsmanship, and culture, the Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival is not just a competition — it is a celebration of human intelligence, creativity, and unity.