By Bilal Ahmed
UFC returns to Abu Dhabi for 333 event
The UFC is set to return to Abu Dhabi in October for UFC 333, an event scheduled to take place at Etihad Arena on October 24. This announcement was made by the UFC and the Department of Culture and Tourism, confirming the continued presence of mixed martial arts in the region’s sporting calendar.
The upcoming event marks a significant return for the organisation, which has previously staged over 20 events in Abu Dhabi since 2010. The city has become a regular fixture for UFC events, with the partnership between the UFC and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) extending through 2028.
Abu Dhabi Showdown Week is also scheduled to return to Yas Island in October, offering additional mixed martial arts activities and fan experiences. This week of events typically precedes the main numbered event, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
The announcement of UFC 333 was made during a recent Fight Night event at Etihad Arena. Dave Shaw, executive vice president, head of international and content at the UFC, highlighted the significance of revealing the details of the October return while an event was already underway in Abu Dhabi, noting the thousands of people in the arena and millions watching globally.
Fan experiences and dining options
Fans interested in attending UFC 333 can register their interest early at VisitAbuDhabi.ae. This registration provides the best opportunity to secure tickets and access exclusive hotel packages designed for travelling fans. Additionally, VIP packages for UFC 333 will be made available through On Location, the UFC‘s official VIP experience provider. These packages include premium seating, VIP access to weigh-ins, private lounge access with all-inclusive amenities, and opportunities for meet and greets with UFC athletes. Further details can be found at UFCVIP.com.
For those attending the event at Etihad Arena, Yas Bay Waterfront offers a variety of dining options within a short walking distance. These establishments cater to different culinary preferences, providing choices for both pre-fight meals and post-event dinners.
Among the restaurants available are Asia Asia, known for its Asian favourites and views over Yas Bay, and Barbossa, which offers Mexican and Latin American flavours in a lively setting. For a more casual experience, Bua Thai Café serves authentic Thai dishes. Other options include Bushra by Buddha-Bar with Levantine cuisine, Daikan Izakaya for Japanese fare, and EL&N London for coffee and light bites.
Additional dining choices at Yas Bay Waterfront include Hanar for Mesopotamian cuisine, Hunter & Barrel for steaks and grilled dishes, and McCafferty’s at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island for Irish pub fare. Fine dining experiences are also available at NURI Grill & Bar, a Korean steakhouse, and Paradiso, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes. For those seeking views and creative cocktails, Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar and The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar provide Mediterranean menus in waterfront settings.
Historical context of UFC events in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has a history of hosting significant UFC events. Last October, the city was the venue for a heavyweight title showdown between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane, which headlined UFC 321. While that particular bout ended in a no contest due to an eye contact incident involving Gane, the calibre of the matchup highlighted the type of high-profile contests UFC boss Dana White reserves for events in the UAE.
The most recent event prior to the UFC 333 announcement was a Fight Night headlined by the light-heavyweight clash between Magomed Ankalaev and Bogdan Guskov. This event marked the 23rd show the organisation has brought to Abu Dhabi, with UFC 333 set to be the 24th.
The consistent staging of these events underscores the strong relationship between the UFC and Abu Dhabi, making it a key location on the international mixed martial arts circuit. The return of UFC 333 in October continues this tradition of bringing major combat sports events to the UAE capital.
Source: arabnews.pk
