Abu Dhabi to Host Grand Prix Figure Skating Championship on 8th October

Yujae Kim © Instagram / yujae_kim0612

In a groundbreaking milestone for winter sports in the region, Abu Dhabi is set to make history by hosting the 2025 Junior Grand Prix of Figure Skating. This prestigious event marks the first time the competition will take place in the Middle East and Africa, drawing 90 talented young skaters from 35 countries around the globe.

Organized under the auspices of the International Skating Union (ISU) and sponsored by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the championship promises a dazzling display of grace, precision, and athleticism. Scheduled from 8th to 11th October 2025 at the state-of-the-art Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, this event forms part of the ISU’s seven global rounds for the 2025/26 season, with the UAE proudly hosting the seventh and penultimate leg before the Grand Prix Final in December.

A Spotlight on Emerging Stars

The competition will feature three riveting categories: men’s singles, women’s singles, and pairs. These disciplines showcase the world’s most promising junior talents, aged 13 to 19, each performing intricate routines that blend technical prowess with artistic flair. From soaring jumps and spins to synchronized lifts in pairs skating, spectators can expect an electrifying showcase of the future of figure skating. Top performers in each event will earn points toward qualification for the ISU Junior Grand Prix Final, where the season’s elite juniors will compete.

Launched in 1997, the ISU Junior Grand Prix Series is one of the leading international platforms for emerging figure skating talent, funded in part by the ISU Development Program. All events, including Abu Dhabi, will be live-streamed on the official ISU Junior Grand Prix YouTube channel, offering global audiences free access to the action.

Detailed Event Schedule

The four-day event kicks off on Wednesday, 8th October, with official practices and initial short programs, building to the free skates and exhibitions over the weekend. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown based on the official colored time schedule (all times local, UAE – GST, UTC+4):

Wednesday, 8 October

Official Practices: Morning and afternoon sessions for men’s singles, women’s singles, and pairs to acclimate skaters to the rink.

Opening Ceremony: Evening welcome event featuring dignitaries and a showcase of UAE’s cultural heritage blended with skating artistry.

Thursday, 9 October

Men’s Singles Short Program: Starting around 13:10, lasting approximately 30 minutes.

Women’s Singles Short Program: Followed by sessions at 07:50 and 09:55, with warm-ups and performances.

Pairs Short Program: Afternoon slot around 10:40, including 35 minutes of competition time.

Friday, 10 October

Women’s Singles Free Skating: Key sessions from 08:20 to 10:30, highlighting technical jumps and spins.

Men’s Singles Free Skating: Mid-morning at 09:00, with extended performance windows.

Pairs Free Skating: Afternoon highlights around 09:30, focusing on lifts and throws.

Saturday, 11 October

Exhibitions and Gala: Morning to afternoon, featuring artistic programs from top finishers.

Awards Ceremony and Closing: Evening finale with medal presentations and celebrations.

Additional Practices: Early sessions for select groups.

(Note: Exact timings may be subject to minor adjustments; check the official ISU website for live updates.)

A Boost for UAE’s Sporting Ambitions

Hamel Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Vice President of the UAE Winter Sports Federation, expressed immense pride in this achievement. “Hosting this championship reflects the International Skating Union’s confidence in the UAE’s distinguished position on the international sports scene,” he stated. He emphasized that the event serves as a vital platform for nurturing Emirati athletes, allowing them to sharpen their skills alongside the globe’s elite juniors.

Al Qubaisi further highlighted how the championship underscores the UAE’s growing reputation as a premier destination for winter sports. It aligns seamlessly with the nation’s strategy to diversify its sporting offerings, championing non-traditional disciplines like figure skating. By doing so, the UAE aims to bolster sports tourism, spark cultural exchanges, and inspire a new generation of athletes. The Abu Dhabi Ice Rink, a world-class facility with advanced cooling technology, ensures optimal conditions despite the desert climate, accommodating up to 1,000 spectators for an intimate yet exhilarating atmosphere.

Why This Matters for the Region

For the Middle East and Africa, this debut hosting is more than a sporting event—it’s a symbol of progress. Figure skating, often associated with colder climates, finds a surprising yet welcoming home in the UAE’s innovative facilities. With 90 skaters competing across disciplines, the event not only elevates Abu Dhabi’s profile on the world stage but also paves the way for greater inclusivity in global sports.

As the 8th October approaches—just one day away from today—anticipation builds for the opening ceremonies and the first spins on the ice. Whether you’re a die-hard figure skating enthusiast or simply curious about this elegant sport, the 2025 Junior Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi promises moments of pure magic on ice.

Source: article on belta.by, published October , 2025.

Achieve More With VSA: Boost your skills with world-class coaches for just $29/hour. Perfect for skaters, hockey players, dancers, and athletes, VSA offers personalized training 24/7, 365 days a year, anywhere in the world.

By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer