Sharjah Cultural and Chess Club will hold a press conference at its headquarters in Al Juraina, Sharjah, today (Thursday) evening, to reveal the details and program of the 21st Sharjah International Chess Championship, which will be held with the participation of 200 athletes from various Arab and foreign countries, in addition to the host country – the UAE. 

As in the previous edition of the tournament, the Sharjah International Chess Championship will be hosted in Sharjah under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who extends unlimited support to this mind sport. 

Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Mualla, Chairman of the Sharjah Cultural and Chess Club, said that the club is keen to build on its excellent and highly successful track record during the 21 editions of this international tournament that brings together champions from across the world. He added that the Sharjah Cultural and Chess Club has a history of 37 years of local and international achievements; during this time, the club represented the country with much zeal and enthusiasm at many international competitions, both individual and team.  

“Sharjah Cultural and Chess Club is committed to develop the game and encourage the winning players who scooped several awards and kept the national flag flying high at international arenas”, he said. 

“This mind sport is highly popular worldwide, and requires thinking skills, creativity, mental stimulation, planning strategy, patience and innately high levels of mental acumen. It is perfectly in tune with the general national trend of focusing on creativity, excellence and success”, he concluded.   

Al Mualla confirmed that the organizing committee is adequately geared to host this championship, which is eagerly awaited by both players and chess enthusiasts.

Sheikh Saud Al Mualla said that the new headquarters, which was officially opened by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah in 2013, is an ideal nursery for this sport. 

“It is considered as the largest chess club in the world, covering an area of 34,000 square meter and boasts the largest chess hall in the world, as well as playing hall, main hall for hosting championships and a podium. The club accommodates a large number of active players”, he said. 

Al Mualla clarified that the chess is not different from other science and art disciplines, and is considered a measure of progress and sophistication of nations and peoples. Therefore, many countries claim to be the origin of this deep rooted game, which is one of the oldest and most reputed mind games.