All-Star Sumo Competition Comes to Abu Dhabi for the First Time in UAE
Abu Dhabi is set to create history in sports by hosting the first ever international professional sumo show that will be called The All-Star Sumo Competition which will take place on September 26th 2026. The event of a lifetime will bring the best sumo wrestlers from across the globe into the Space42 Arena and give fans in the UAE the chance to take part in one of Japan’s most storied sports traditions live.
The tournament is expected to help strengthen Abu Dhabi’s status as a major location to host major sports events, while giving fans a taste of the rich rituals and traditions of the professional world of sumo.
When is the All-Star Sumo Competition in Abu Dhabi?
All-Star Sumo Competition is the first professional international sumo competition to be held within the UAE. The Sumo Competition is scheduled for:
| Date | Saturday, September 26, 2026 |
| Venue | Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi |
| Country | United Arab Emirates |
📌Where will the Event take place?
The event will take place on the Space42 Arena which is one of Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious indoor arenas for international entertainment and sporting events.
How to reach Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi?
View the direction of Space42 Arena through Google Map
Reach Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi by Bus | Car | Taxi
By Car
There are various ways to reach your destination, including heading southeast on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street, taking exit 29 toward Khalifa Cityy, and following the ramp to Al Raha Beach East. Then take a slight right to merge onto Al Bandar Street, and turn left onto Ar Rahah Street to reach your location. GPS navigation highly advised.
By Public Transportation
There are various ways to reach your destination by taking bus 170 to the Al Rahah St / Transco Power Substation bus stop, followed by a three-minute walk, or bus 175 to the same stop, followed by a four-minute walk.
By Taxi
You can easily reach your destination by taking a taxi or a ride-hailing app.
✨What makes this Event Special?
In contrast to traditional local shows the event is a showcase of professional sumo wrestlers from around the world taking part in real-life matches. The event is a mix of competitive competition with a long-standing Japanese customs, allowing the spectators to see both the ceremonial and athletic aspects of sumo.
Highlights include:
- The first international sumo tournament in the United Arab Emirates.
- Nine elite rikishi (sumo wrestlers)
- 36 competitive bouts
- Traditional Japanese Sumo rituals, ceremonies and rituals
- Live entertainment of the cultural arts
- Family-friendly sport experience for the whole family.
How many Wrestlers will Participate?
As per the organizers of the event, it will be comprised of:
- 9 elite professional rikishi
- Wrestlers representing nations such as Japan, Mongolia and Egypt
- 36 head-to-head match-ups throughout the duration of the event.
How many Wrestlers are Part of the All-Star Sumo Competition Lineup?
| Ichi, Japan | Emperor’s Cup winner with top professional successes in his division. The most decorated and headliner athlete, with nine gold stars after defeating all the yokozuna (Grand Champions) during his time. |
| Hiroki, Japan | The most powerful sumo competition on Earth. Professional Division champion known for his extraordinary size and strength. |
| Waka, Japan | Veteran wrestler who has won 763 career matches in the elite professional sumo tournaments. |
| Tora, Mongolia | Veteran wrestler who has fought 825 professional matches in the world of professional sumo tournaments. |
| Zorig, Mongolia | A fighter with 7 years of experience in the field as well as international sumo achievements. |
| Ramy, Egypt | 10-time national sumo champion as well as US Sumo Open Champion. One of the most skilled Arab sumo wrestlers of all time. |
| Fumiya, Japan | The most elite sumo and judo wrestler is known as the most extensive sumo wrestling champion on Earth. |
| Jaagii, Mongolia | Two-time World Sumo Championship silver medalist with years of experience in international competitions. |
| Mendee, Mongolia | World Sumo Champion and US Sumo Open Champion with a dynamism in international record of competition. |
Why is Abu Dhabi Hosting the Event?
Abu Dhabi continues expanding its range with world-class sports events which include Formula 1, UFC, NBA preseason games cycling, golf and international martial arts tournaments.
The hosting of The All-Star Sumo Competition reflects the Emirate’s plan to attract new international sports and promote the exchange of culture through globally renowned events.
Can Fans Buy Tickets?
Yes. Tickets are available from the official ticketing partner of the event with a variety of seating options that are available to spectators.
What Can Spectators Expect?
Visitors can enjoy much more than the wrestling matches. The evening will feature traditional Japanese ceremonial performances, including the official introduction of the sumo wrestlers and live Japanese Taiko drumming. Guests can also explore Japanese-themed photo opportunities, enjoy a variety of food and beverage outlets, and purchase official event merchandise.
For those with VIP Meet & Greet tickets, there is an exclusive post-event experience where they can meet the athletes in person and take photos with them.
Why this Event Matters for UAE Sports?
The introduction of sumo pros is another step in Abu Dhabi’s rising popularity as a world-class sports hub. The Emirate already hosts international events in basketball, motorsports MMA cycling, tennis and cricket. The addition of professional sumo provides an entirely new sport experience for both visitors from abroad and residents alike.
Prohibited Items
For the safety of all our guests, respect the rules. Enjoy the show
- Power bank
- Food & beverages
- Hazardous materials
- Perfumes & lighters
- Fireworks
- Flags
- Pets
- Baby strollers
- Laser pointers
- Bags larger than 30×30×15 cm not permitted
- Tripods & professional cameras
- Selfie sticks & recording equipment
- Weapons
- Musical instruments or amplification equipment
- For smoking and vaping, use designated areas only
FAQ
1. Is this the first prestigious sumo show held in the UAE?
- Yes. The first professional sumo competition ever to be held by the UAE.
2. How many games will be played?
- The public can view 36 matches featuring nine wrestlers of the highest caliber.
3. What countries do they represent?
- The wrestlers participating are who hail from Japan, Mongolia, and Egypt.
Final Thoughts
It’s expected that the All-Star Sumo Competition Abu Dhabi 2026 expected to become one of this most exciting sporting events. As the UAE will host its first ever professional sumo tournament of international repute spectators will have the chance to see world-class wrestlers as well as authentic Japanese traditions and a thrilling match-up all in one location within the Space42 Arena.
No matter if you’ve been a long-time fan of sumo, or are eager to discover this sport in the flesh for the first, this event promises to be an unforgettable sporting and cultural spectacle.
