Saudi Arabia, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and oil-based economy, has been making significant strides in recent years to diversify its economy and promote a healthier lifestyle for its citizens. One of the ways the country is achieving this is through the growth of mixed martial arts (MMA) organizations.
MMA, a full-contact combat sport that combines various martial arts disciplines, has gained immense popularity worldwide in recent years. Saudi Arabia, too, has caught the MMA bug, with several organizations promoting the sport in the country. These organizations are not only promoting a healthier lifestyle but also contributing to the growth of the sports industry and tourism in the country.
One of the leading MMA organizations in Saudi Arabia is Brave Combat Federation (BCF). Founded in 2016, BCF is headquartered in Jeddah and has quickly gained a reputation as one of the most prominent MMA organizations in the Middle East. BCF has hosted several events in Saudi Arabia, including the historic Brave 14 event held in Jeddah in 2018, which was the first-ever MMA event to be held in the country.
BCF’s success has not gone unnoticed, as the organization has secured partnerships with major international brands such as UFC and ONE Championship. These partnerships have helped BCF to expand its reach and promote MMA in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
Another prominent MMA organization in Saudi Arabia is Super Fight League (SFL). Founded in 2012, SFL is headquartered in Dubai and has hosted several events in Saudi Arabia, including the SFL 31 event held in Jeddah in 2019. SFL’s events in Saudi Arabia have attracted top MMA fighters from around the world, including former UFC champions.
SFL’s success has also led to partnerships with major international brands such as Caesars Palace and the National Basketball Association (NBA). These partnerships have helped SFL to expand its reach and promote MMA in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
The growth of MMA organizations in Saudi Arabia is not only benefiting the sports industry but also contributing to the growth of tourism in the country. MMA events in Saudi Arabia have attracted a large number of international tourists, who come to witness the action-packed fights and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The Saudi government has also recognized the potential of MMA to promote tourism and has taken several initiatives to support the growth of the sport. In 2018, the Saudi General Sports Authority (GSA) announced a partnership with BCF to promote MMA in the country and attract international MMA events to Saudi Arabia.
The partnership has led to the establishment of the BCF Academy in Jeddah, which is the first-ever MMA academy in Saudi Arabia. The academy is providing training to aspiring MMA fighters in the country and is helping to develop the local MMA talent pool.
In conclusion, the growth of MMA organizations in Saudi Arabia is a testament to the country’s commitment to diversify its economy and promote a healthier lifestyle for its citizens. The success of organizations such as BCF and SFL is not only benefiting the sports industry but also contributing to the growth of tourism in the country. As MMA continues to gain popularity worldwide, it is likely that Saudi Arabia will continue to be a major player in the MMA scene in the Middle East.
