In a new episode of the “Money Secrets” podcast – hosted by economic content creator Ahmed Elgamal – Fouad Darwish, CEO of Palms Sports and President of the UAE Warriors organization, shared an inspiring journey of transforming Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in the UAE, stating that “knockout punches” are not just in the ring, they also happen in sports investment and leadership.
Since taking over UAE Warriors in 2018, Darwish and his team have elevated the brand into a global platform, hosting over 50 events and attracting fighters from more than 100 countries. While global sports came to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, Abu Dhabi made headlines by organizing the world’s first international sporting event in June 2021, cementing its position as a global sports hub.
One of the cornerstones of the UAE’s sporting success is the School Jiu-Jitsu Training Program, which engages more than 200,000 students weekly. Darwish describes it as “infrastructure for producing champions,” embedding sports into daily life. Several fighters who began with UAE Warriors have since risen to global prominence in promotions like the UFC and PFL.
Darwish emphasized that the wise vision and unwavering support of the UAE leadership are what transformed sports into a national soft power tool, helping shape a cohesive, empowered society. He stressed that Palms Sports’ ambition goes beyond event organization; it’s about empowering champions and turning dreams into reality.