Norway Chess Goes Global — First Stop: Dubai!

This week marked an exciting new chapter for us at Norway Chess, as we had the pleasure of attending a media event at the Seven Seas Hotel in Dubai — our very first official activity in the Middle East.

Our visit represents an important step in our ambition to bring world-class chess experiences to new audiences around the globe.

Introducing Norway Chess to the Middle East

At the event, our founder Kjell Madland, General Manager Benedicte Westre Skog, and Marketing Manager Dea Maioli Egeli introduced the Norway Chess universe — including:

• Norway Chess

• Norway Chess Women

• Norway Chess Open

• Norway Summit

We also shared a preview of what’s coming up in Stavanger this May — and, perhaps most exciting of all, we spoke about our long-term vision of bringing a future Norway Chess event to the Middle East.

Welcoming Rouda Essa Alserkal to Norway Chess Open 2025

A special highlight of the event was extending an official invitation to Rouda Essa Alserkal — the UAE’s first Woman Grandmaster at just 15 years old — to participate in the 2025 Norway Chess Open.

“I’m looking forward to the competition as I know Norway Chess Open is the strongest grooming ground for future chess superstars. When I first heard I was invited, I couldn’t believe it! I told my coach immediately — I need to start preparing. This is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world, and I’m sure it will help me improve my game even more.”
— Rouda Essa Alserkal

We were also delighted to share a video message from India’s No.1 female player, GM Koneru Humpy, congratulating Rouda and sharing her own experience playing at Norway Chess Women.

Open for New Partnerships in the Middle East

As we continue to grow internationally, we are always open to dialogue with organisations, brands, and partners who share our passion for chess, strategic thinking, and brilliant minds.

We see great potential for future Norway Chess events in the Middle East — and we would love to connect with anyone who shares that vision. If your organisation has a presence in the region, or if you are interested in exploring collaboration opportunities with us, we would love to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

We look forward to welcoming Rouda — along with players from around the world — to Stavanger this spring.

All photos by: Joy Dasgupta / Norway Chess