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UAE Wrestling Federation Major Goal to promote Mutaraha


UAE WRESTLING FEDERATION X UNITED WORLD WRESTLING

Earlier this year, in a landmark initiative to promote traditional Emirati wrestling known as Mutaraha, the United Arab Emirates Wrestling Federation, in partnership with United World Wrestling (UWW), launched a comprehensive development program. The promotion of Mutaraha by the UAE Wrestling Federation was officially solidified through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland.

The program commenced with the successful hosting of the ‘Maritime Heritage Festival 2023’ in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the unique wrestling form known as Mutaraha. A strategy aimed at bolstering the sport’s presence in the UAE is central to this initiative, with a focus on engaging the youth, enhancing training for athletes and coaches, and the organization of international competitions.

UAE Wrestling Federation’s Major Goal to Promote Mutaraha

Mutaraha, a traditional wrestling style deeply rooted in UAE’s cultural heritage, involves two wrestlers competing in a six-meter diameter circular sand ring. The goal is to compel the opponent to touch the ground with any part of their body except their feet, without employing striking or kicking techniques.

The MoU outlines a shared commitment between the UAE Wrestling Federation and UWW to preserve, develop, and promote Mutaraha. Under this agreement, it is planned that regular meetings will be held for the exchange of knowledge, resolution of issues, and evaluation of progress.. This partnership aims to not only elevate the profile of wrestling in the UAE and the region but also to provide a global platform for Emirati wrestlers, thereby enriching the sport’s cultural diversity.

With this agreement, the UAE Wrestling Federation and UWW affirm their dedication to nurturing the growth and global recognition of Mutaraha, celebrating UAE’s rich cultural heritage and its timeless sporting traditions.

This initiative is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to champion a variety of combat sports, leveraging the successful model established with Jiu-Jitsu. Inspired by Sheikh Tahnoun’s vision, Jiu-Jitsu has evolved into the national sport, deeply embedded in educational and military training across the country. This expansive approach also embraces other combat sports, with Abu Dhabi hosting key international events in disciplines like Muay Thai, kickboxing, and judo, further bolstering its stature as a global sports hub.

These endeavors, complementing the commitment to traditional sports like Mutaraha, not only highlight the UAE’s dedication to fostering a diverse sporting culture but also contribute to its tourism and economic landscape. By nurturing both traditional and modern forms of combat sports, the UAE aims to preserve its rich heritage while embracing contemporary sporting trends, reinforcing Mutaraha’s standing as a cornerstone of Emirati cultural and athletic identity.

 

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