Fujairah Set to Host IFBB Mr and Ms World Championship
In a testament to its growing stature in the global fitness arena, the Emirate of Fujairah is poised to welcome the world’s top bodybuilding and physique athletes at the upcoming IFBB Mr and Ms World Championship. Scheduled from September 5 to 7, the prestigious international event will unfold at the state-of-the-art Zayed Sports Complex.
Held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, this championship reinforces the emirate’s commitment to excellence in sports organization and global athletic engagement. The major sporting event is being organized in collaboration with the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) and the Emirates Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation.
An impressive 920 competitors from around the world will participate—including 700 amateur athletes and 220 professionals—in various weight and height classes, highlighting the diversity and international appeal of the sport.
“Fujairah’s success in hosting major events is made possible thanks to the continuous support of His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah, as well as the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah,” said Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hamad Bin Saif Al Sharqi, President of the Emirates Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation.
Sheikh Abdullah also praised Sheikh Saleh Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Chairman of the Department of Industry and Economy, for his steadfast support, emphasizing that past editions hosted in Fujairah have significantly boosted the sport’s popularity across the UAE.
During a press conference held at Zayed Sports Complex, Engineer Mohammed Bin Majid, Director of the Department of Industry and Economy in Fujairah and Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee, and Mohammed Shaheen Al Hosani, Board Member of the Emirates Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, laid out this year’s groundbreaking features.
Engineer Mohammed Obaid bin Majid highlighted that the IFBB event is part of a series of global competitions Fujairah has been hosting for the past 25 years. He stated, “Entry for spectators will be free, given the immense popularity of bodybuilding both locally and globally.”
One of the major highlights of this year’s edition is the award of 15 professional cards to amateur winners, granting them direct access to future pro-level championships. Meanwhile, victors in the professional categories will be honored with two championship titles, elevating the event’s competitive prestige.
Mohammed Shaheen Al Hosani, who also serves as Head of the Technical Committee, detailed the event’s competitive divisions:
- Amateur Bodybuilding: 75kg, 80kg, 85kg, 90kg, 95kg, and Over 95kg
- Professional Bodybuilding (Men): 95kg and Open (Over 95kg)
- Professional Men’s Physique: Open height category
- Amateur Men’s Physique: Up to 171cm, up to 180cm, and over 180cm
- Women’s Physique: Up to 163cm, up to 169cm, and over 169cm
Hosani also revealed that international bodybuilding veteran Jose Maria of Spain, Head of the IFBB Judging Committee, will lead the esteemed panel of judges. Alongside him, seven Emirati international judges will officiate, including Mohammed Shaheen, Yahya Sari, Khaled Al Hosani, Tareq Khalil, Osama Marouf, and two female judges—a testament to growing gender inclusivity in the sport.
The IFBB Mr and Ms World Championship in Fujairah is set to be not only a celebration of physical excellence but a reaffirmation of the UAE’s leading role in the global bodybuilding scene.
Team V.DIR-EM-UAE
