Erbil, Iraq – October 5, 2025: The Asian Senior Chess Championships 2025 have officially begun in the vibrant city of Erbil, bringing together some of the continent’s most distinguished senior players for a celebration of strategy, skill, and sportsmanship.
Hosted by the Iraqi Chess Federation under the auspices of the Asian Chess Federation and the International Chess Federation (FIDE), and organized in coordination with the Kurdistan Foundation and the Khanzad Chess Club, this prestigious event runs from October 4th to 14th, 2025.
Download the Prospectus for the Asian Senior Chess Championships 2025.
A Grand Opening in Erbil
The championships were inaugurated in a ceremony of great splendor at the luxurious Erbil International Hotel (★★★★★), the official venue of the event.
The opening was attended by several notable dignitaries, including Mr. Rebar Ahmed, Minister of Interior; Mr. Safeen Dizayee, Head of the Department of Foreign Relations; Mr. Omed Khoshnaw, Governor of Erbil; Mr. Zana Mala Khalid, Head of the 2nd Branch of the KDP; Mr. Sardar Ismail, Director General of Sports; and Dr. Jutyar Ali, Honorary President of the Khanzad Chess Club.
Their presence underscored the pride and prestige surrounding the championship — a moment that highlights Iraq’s growing role in hosting high-level international sporting events.
Tournament Overview
The Asian Senior Chess Championships bring together top senior players from across Asia, competing in two main categories — Over 50 and Over 65 — along with special awards for the best women players.
❖ Format: 9-round Swiss System (Standard Chess), alongside a Blitz Championship.
❖ Titles: Gold medalists in the open category will receive FIDE GM norms, while top finishers will earn IM and FM titles, in accordance with FIDE regulations.
❖ Awards: A total of $3,000 USD in prizes, as well as medals and certificates, will honor excellence across divisions.
Venue & Accommodation
The Erbil International Hotel, one of the city’s finest five-star landmarks, serves as both the venue and official accommodation partner of the championship.
Combining world-class facilities, refined comfort, and impeccable service, the hotel offers an ideal environment for players, officials, and guests alike.
From the spacious playing halls to elegant lounges and dining venues, every detail reflects the excellence expected of an event of this stature.
About Erbil
Erbil, known as Hawler in Kurdish, is one of the world’s most ancient continuously inhabited cities, with a history stretching back over 6,000 years. At its heart lies the magnificent Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has stood as a guardian of civilizations since antiquity.
As the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Erbil embodies a proud cultural heritage, blending Mesopotamian history with modern development. Its bustling bazaars, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality showcase the spirit of Iraq’s rich traditions. Visitors will discover museums, historic mosques, and vibrant markets, alongside contemporary cafes and thriving city life.
Surrounded by stunning landscapes — from fertile plains to the rugged Zagros Mountains — Erbil is not only a crossroads of history but also a welcoming home for cultural exchange. Hosting the Asian Senior Chess Championships 2025 is both an honor and a testament to Iraq’s commitment to the game of kings.
The Asian Senior Chess Championships 2025 embody the wisdom, perseverance, and passion that define chess across generations. As the tournament unfolds in Erbil, senior masters from across Asia will compete not only for titles but for the honor of representing their nations at the highest level. Stay tuned to the Asian Chess Federation’s official platforms for daily news, results, and photos from this prestigious event. Follow the games, celebrate the champions, and experience the unfolding story of chess in the heart of Erbil, Iraq.