Abu dhabi: The Higher Organising Committee of the Abu Dhabi International Shotgun Championship has unveiled the final preparations for the much-anticipated event, slated to occur from December 1st to 4th, 2025, at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club. The tournament will feature participation from over 300 shooters representing 30 countries, with valuable cash prizes at stake.
According to Emirates News Agency, the championship is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region. It is organized by the Weapons and Hazardous Substances Office in collaboration with the UAE Shooting Federation and the International Federation of Sport Shooting and Hunting (FITASC).
This announcement was made during a press conference at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, attended by Mohammed Suhail Al Neyadi, Director General of the Weapons and Hazardous Substances Office and Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee; Brigadier General Hassan
bin Hadiya Al Shehhi, Vice President of the UAE Shooting Federation; Saif Matar Al Nuaimi, Tournament Director; and media representatives.
Al Neyadi extended his gratitude to the country’s leadership for its ongoing support of sports and athletes, acknowledging the generous patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He also expressed appreciation to H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor, for his support of the initiatives of the Weapons and Dangerous Materials Office.
Al Neyadi detailed that the total prize fund for the tournament is $400,000, to be distributed among the winners. The event will see participation from over 300 male and female shooters from more than 30 countries, including 30 players from the UAE. Notably, women’s participation has reached approximately 10%, indicating their growing presence in the sport.
He praised the significant registration turnout and the readiness of the technical and administrative teams to welcome t
he international shooters. Al Neyadi also highlighted the role of strategic partners such as the UAE Shooting Federation, the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Al Ain Municipality, Abu Dhabi Police, Caracal International, and Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, emphasizing their contribution to delivering an event that meets international standards.
He mentioned that logistical preparations for the international shooters are complete, noting the tournament coincides with the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations. He affirmed this year’s edition will be exceptional, showcasing the UAE’s leadership in shooting sports and its connection to the national heritage of hunting and defense.
Al Neyadi stressed that Al Ain’s hosting of the championship underscores its status as a prominent sports and tourism hub, adding a significant milestone to the UAE’s sporting landscape. He revealed that the final day will feature the “Abu Dhabi Silver Awards,” with prizes exceeding AED 100,000, enhancing the competitive spirit.
Saif M
atar Al Nuaimi, the tournament director, shared that the club has been preparing intensely, with committees finalizing arrangements. The schedule for the arrival of participants begins on November 25, with official training sessions set for November 27 to 30, leading up to the competitions starting on December 1.