MORE ABOUT US

Building Champions, Minds, & Bodies Since 1984

Welcome to Emirates Karate Centre & EK Sports Academy International, Abu Dhabi’s premier martial arts and sports academy since 1984. For over four decades, we have shaped champions and empowered students through expert-led Karate and Kickboxing training in a safe, disciplined environment.

Entrusted to Director and Chief Instructor Shan Ismail in 2005, the academy expanded from a single branch to six thriving locations across Abu Dhabi. With over 17,500 students trained and 15 leading corporate partners, we proudly extended our legacy internationally in 2024 with new branches in Kerala, India, under MS Karate & EK Sports International. 

Classes & Programs
We offer Karate and Kickboxing training across our branches and directly in schools throughout Abu Dhabi. All school programs are approved annually by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), ensuring safe, professional, and structured lessons that build discipline, confidence, fitness, and teamwork.

Annual Events & Workshops
Annual Championship for 17 consecutive years, our Annual Championship has been a highlight event, allowing students of all ages to showcase their Karate and Kickboxing skills. Parents enjoy free entry to witness the dedication and growth of their children. Participation grows each year, making this championship a celebration of martial arts and community spirit. Annual Workshop Camp We host yearly International Workshop Camps, inviting world-class Karate and Kickboxing coaches to Abu Dhabi. These camps give our students advanced training, exposure to international standards, and
the inspiration to achieve higher levels of success.

Professional Team & Staff Training
Our instructors and staff are committed to excellence and undergo annual training, including:
– Police Clearance, Abu Dhabi
– HSI Certified – First Aid | CPR | AED Training (American Safety & Health Institute)
– CPD Certified – Child Protection & Safeguarding (University of West London, UK)
Every class is delivered by highly qualified, responsible, and professional instructors in a safe learning environment.

Safety & Digital Monitoring
Student safety and transparency are our top priorities. All branches are equipped with CCTV safety monitoring and supported by an advanced ERP system to manage:
– Attendance tracking
– Student progress reports
– Training schedules & homework notes
– Parent alerts for student entry and exit
Each student and parent receives a personal login, accessible worldwide, enabling them to:
– View progress updates and notes
– Monitor attendance & safety alerts
– Access training resources and records anytime
This system ensures safety, accountability, and strong parent engagement.

Trusted Corporate Partners
We proudly provide martial arts and sports training to over 15 leading organizations in Abu Dhabi, including:
• The Club, Abu Dhabi
• Infinite Sports UAE
• Cranleigh School Abu Dhabi
• British International School Abu Dhabi
• Nord Anglia International School Abu Dhabi
• ADNOC School Abu Dhabi
• Raha International School, Khalifa City Campus
• Aha International School, Gardens Campus
• Yasmina British Academy
• Provis Abu Dhabi
• Khidmah Abu Dhabi
• ALDAR
• Happynest Playhouse

Affiliations & Recognition
Emirates Karate is officially affiliated with:
– Japan Karate Association
– UAE Karate Federation
– Ministry of Youth and Sports, UAE
– UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation
We are also approved by ADEK (Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge) to deliver programs across schools and branches every academic year.

■ Emirates Karate Centre & EK Sports Academy International — Pioneering martial arts in Abu Dhabi since 1984, now expanding internationally. Building champions through discipline, respect, and
excellence — in the dojo, school, and beyond.

To improve the confidence, knowledge, focus, and health of our student community. To empower our community to be kind and lead healthy lifestyles. In Martial Arts Abu Dhabi, we foster discipline and respect, creating a supportive environment for all.

To impact the lives of our student community by building confidence, good mental as well as physical health. To be the best service provider for Martial Arts Abu Dhabi in the Middle East.

To continuously expand our reach and positive impact, training more students and significantly enhancing their martial arts experience across multiple locations in Abu Dhabi

Our services

Services We're Offering

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Years Experience
WHY CHOOSE US?

Why Choose Us?

Our team of certified fitness professionals is committed to providing you with the highest level of expertise and support.

We cater to students of all ages, starting from 3 years old to adults. Whether you are a complete beginner or have prior experience, we offer classes tailored to your level.

Not at all. Our classes are designed for all levels, including complete beginners and advanced students. You will receive professional guidance every step of the way.

Classes are typically held 2 times per week and last approximately 60 minutes. Exact schedules vary by age group and branch.

Our services

We Offer Various Training

Experience diverse training options with us, from karate , kung fu and kick boxing. Our expert instructors deliver top-quality instruction for all ages. Join our Abu Dhabi Martial Arts classes for an enriching and empowering experience

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TRAINING LOCATIONS IN ABU DHABI!

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SUCCESSFULLY TRAINED TWO BLACK BELT HOLDERS!

17500 +

ADMISSIONS UNTIL NOW!

OUR BENEFITS

About Our Director

I am a professional martial arts trainer with 25 years of experience in both studying and teaching. I offer classes for children and adults, as well as personal training sessions. I continuously seek to improve my skills through international training camps and workshops, and I compete at both national and international levels. Throughout my career, I have achieved a 5th Dan Black Belt from JKA Japan and a 4th Dan Black Belt in Shaolin Kung Fu. Additionally, I am a certified Kickboxer and have trained in Muay Thai in Thailand. I was honored to receive the Employee of the Year award at The British Club in Abu Dhabi in 2008. My competitive achievements include being a Bronze Medalist at the World Karate Championship in Australia in 2010, winning the UAE Karate Championship in Dubai in 2011, and earning a 4th Prize at the World Karate Championship in Turkey in 2013. In 2014, I participated in Muay Thai training in Thailand and attended the Japanese Karate Association’s International Black Belt Training Camp. I also earned a Silver Medal at the UAE Open Karate Championship in Dubai that same year. My experiences include attending the Ultimate Karate Fighters Boot Camp at the University of Kent in Canterbury, UK, and participating in the Swiss Karate Do Symposium International Karate Camp in Switzerland in 2016, where I secured 1st Prize at the UAE Open Karate Championship. I am dedicated to sharing my passion for martial arts and helping my students achieve their personal goals.

Shan Ismail (Chief Instructor & Director)
OUR TRAINERS

Our Expert Training

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Trusted Corporate Partners

We proudly provide martial arts and sports training to over 15 leading organizations in Abu Dhabi, including:

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