Chess is increasingly recognised across the UAE as a powerful activity for improving logical thinking, concentration, and decision-making skills in children. As more parents explore structured after-school options, the demand for reliable chess classes in the UAE has grown steadily.
Parents in cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and nearby regions often face the same question:
Should we choose a local chess academy, or is online chess coaching better for our child?
To help families make an informed choice, here is a carefully researched list of the 7 best chess classes in the UAE in 2026, covering established academies, structured online programs, and trusted learning platforms.
Top Chess Academies in UAE – City Coverage
Chess coaching in the UAE is typically available through:
- Offline chess academies in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Hybrid models combining in-person and online sessions
- Online chess classes that are time-zone friendly for UAE families
Online chess classes have become especially popular among UAE parents because they offer structured learning, consistent coaching, and flexible schedules aligned with UAE school timings, without the need for travel.
Kingdom of Chess (Best Overall Chess Academy in UAE – Online)
Website: kingdomofchess.com
Available across: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah & all of UAE
Mode: Online (Live classes)
Kingdom of Chess is a globally recognised online chess academy working with children across multiple countries, including the UAE. It is particularly suitable for parents looking for structured chess classes for kids, not just casual or app-based learning.
The academy focuses on children aged 4 to 15 years, offering a clear learning pathway from beginner level to advanced competitive training.
Why UAE parents choose Kingdom of Chess:
- Live, interactive online chess classes
- Coaches include FIDE-rated players, International Masters, and Grandmasters
- Structured curriculum: Beginner → Intermediate → Advanced
- Regular quizzes, tournaments, and progress tracking
- Time-zone friendly schedules suitable for UAE school routines
- Accessible from anywhere in the UAE
Best for:
Parents who want long-term development, discipline, and measurable progress through structured chess coaching.
Adnan Chess Academy (Dubai – Offline)
Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Wasl, Dubai
Phone: +971 52 102 7891
Mode: Offline
Adnan Chess Academy offers in-person chess coaching for students in Dubai. It is suitable for families who prefer face-to-face learning and local classroom interaction.
Key highlights:
- Live, interactive online chess classes
- Coaches include FIDE-rated players, International Masters, and Grandmasters
- Structured curriculum: Beginner → Intermediate → Advanced
- Regular quizzes, tournaments, and progress tracking
- Time-zone friendly schedules suitable for UAE school routines
- Accessible from anywhere in the UAE
Things parents should consider:
- Limited publicly available curriculum details
- Learning structure may vary by batch
Best for:
Families in Dubai looking for offline chess exposure for beginners.
Chess Dubai (Dubai – Hybrid)
Website: chessdubai.com
Mode: Offline + Online
Chess Dubai provides chess training programs for students of different age groups, combining academy sessions with structured learning.
What they offer:
- Chess training for children and adults
- Offline academy sessions in Dubai
- Suitable for beginners and intermediate learners
Limitations:
- Program structure may differ by centre
- Less emphasis on long-term progress tracking
Best for:
Families in Dubai seeking local coaching with flexible formats.
Dubai Chess & Culture Club
Website: dubaichess.ae
Mode: Offline club
Dubai Chess & Culture Club is one of the most recognised chess institutions in the UAE, supporting chess culture, tournaments, and competitive play.
Key highlights:
- Strong over-the-board chess culture
- Access to rated tournaments
- Established chess community
Things parents should consider:
- Focus is more competitive than beginner-oriented
- Less structured curriculum for young beginners
Best for:
Children who already have basic chess knowledge and want tournament exposure.
Abu Dhabi Chess Academy
Website: academy.abudhabichess.ae
Mode: Offline
Abu Dhabi Chess Academy supports chess development through local training and tournament participation in the capital region.
Why families choose this academy:
- Strong competitive chess environment
- Local access for Abu Dhabi residents
- Connection with official chess events
Limitations:
- Less focus on beginner-friendly structured programs
- Best suited for students interested in competition
Best for:
Families in Abu Dhabi with children aiming for competitive chess.
Shining Star Online
Website: shiningstaronline.com
Mode: Online
Shining Star Online offers online learning programs for students across different subjects, including chess.
Key features:
- Online accessibility from anywhere in UAE
- Suitable as supplementary learning
Not ideal for:
- Parents seeking deeply structured chess-only programs
- Long-term competitive preparation
Best for:
Basic exposure and additional practice alongside formal coaching.
Chess.com (Free Learning Platform)
Website: Chess.com
Mode: Online
Chess.com is widely used by players in the UAE for practice, puzzles, and casual learning.
Useful features:
- Puzzles and daily challenges
- Online games with players worldwide
- Beginner learning resources
Important to note:
Chess.com is not a coaching academy and does not replace guided training.
Best for:
Practice and fun alongside structured chess classes.
FAQs About Chess Classes in UAE
Yes. Families can choose between offline academies and online programs like Kingdom of Chess.
Yes. Many structured online academies offer schedules aligned with UAE school timings.
Beginner-friendly programs with structured curriculums are ideal for children starting chess.
Final Verdict for UAE Parents
If you are searching for the best chess classes in the UAE in 2026, especially for kids and beginners, structured learning should be your top priority.
Offline academies and clubs offer valuable over-the-board exposure, particularly for competitive play. However, for consistent coaching, clear progress tracking, and time-zone friendly schedules, a structured online academy like Kingdom of Chess provides a reliable and practical option for families across the UAE.
Choosing the right chess environment can make a lasting difference in how a child learns, thinks, and grows through the game of chess.
