Mixed martial arts (MMA) is gaining unprecedented traction in Saudi Arabia, transforming from a niche sport to a burgeoning national interest, particularly among young Saudis. Once overshadowed by football, MMA is quickly becoming a staple of the Kingdom’s sports culture, driven by the Saudi Mixed Martial Arts Federation (SMMAF) and its CEO, Abdullah Al Hazzaa.
“MMA aligns with the spirit of this generation,” Al Hazzaa shared, emphasizing the sport’s appeal to Saudi youth. With a clear mission, the SMMAF is focused on building a sustainable MMA infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, creating pathways for aspiring athletes and fostering a supportive ecosystem.
Building MMA from the Ground Up
The SMMAF’s strategy for establishing MMA as a mainstay includes promoting local talent and creating opportunities for Saudi athletes to compete on an international stage. Al Hazzaa explained that a step-by-step approach is essential for ensuring sustainable growth, saying, “We’re committed to improving the sporting landscape, especially MMA, with a strategy that progresses step by step.”
One key initiative is the SMMAF’s “Champion Programme,” which aims to develop young athletes from amateur to elite competitors. Through this program, the SMMAF hopes to create a steady stream of talent capable of representing Saudi Arabia on the world stage.
Aligning with Vision 2030
MMA’s rise in Saudi Arabia is part of a broader movement under Vision 2030, the country’s initiative to diversify its economy and enhance cultural opportunities. As part of this, Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in sports, hosting events ranging from international football tournaments to high-profile MMA matchups.
Al Hazzaa highlighted that Saudi Arabia’s efforts align with Vision 2030, noting the significance of hosting high-profile events such as the PFL’s “Battle of the Giants” earlier this month. The event, which featured world heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou and reached over 160 countries, showcased Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become a major player on the global MMA stage. Even football icon Cristiano Ronaldo attended, underscoring the event’s appeal and impact.
“These events have a huge impact, with stars coming here and partnerships that help develop our coaches and support our athletes. It’s mutually beneficial,” Al Hazzaa said.
Opportunities for Youth and Women in MMA
For Saudi youth, particularly Gen Z, MMA has gained popularity on social media, with young fans closely following their favorite fighters. “When young people see international stars and our own Saudi athletes, they’re inspired. They see icons in the sport and want to follow in their footsteps,” Al Hazzaa shared.
MMA has also gained appeal among Saudi women, partly due to SMMAF’s initiatives to promote gender inclusivity in the sport. Saudi Arabia hosted its first women’s MMA championships in 2022 and again in July this year. By creating pathways for women in MMA, the Kingdom aims to encourage a new generation of female athletes.
“Part of our strategy is to support women in the sport, including athletes, coaches, and referees,” Al Hazzaa said. Prominent figures like Hattan Alsaif, the first Saudi woman to sign with a professional MMA league, are serving as role models, drawing in female fans and athletes.
Could MMA Rival Football’s Popularity?
Football remains the dominant sport in Saudi Arabia, but MMA’s growing fanbase suggests it could someday hold a similar place in Saudi sports culture. “It’s tough because we love football, but I believe it has the potential to be close,” Al Hazzaa said, noting the passion Saudi fans have shown for recent MMA events.
To secure MMA’s future, SMMAF plans to continue investing in training, facilities, and youth programs. Al Hazzaa revealed that the federation is even exploring ways to integrate MMA into school and university programs to promote discipline, resilience, and physical fitness among young Saudis.
As the Kingdom opens itself to new cultural and sporting opportunities, Al Hazzaa believes that MMA will pave the way for a new sporting culture in Saudi Arabia that reflects the aspirations of its youth.
