KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
International chess arbiter Mohammed Abdul Ghani, Executive Director of the Fujairah Chess and Culture Club, has been awarded the title of Fair Play Expert by the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
The qualification makes him the first Arab international arbiter to receive the specialist anti-cheating accreditation from FIDE.
Abdul Ghani is now one of only 38 officially certified experts globally. In the sport of chess, Fair Play Experts are technical specialists appointed to safeguard competitive integrity.
They are trained to implement anti-cheating measures, deploy advanced monitoring procedures, and handle security protocols to prevent electronic and algorithmic assistance during tournaments. The role allows them to run mid-level events independently and join anti-cheating teams at top-tier international competitions.
The title was conferred following Abdul Ghani's performance across national and international levels, including his experience in officiating and organising major tournaments.
He has completed the requisite training seminars and examinations, and has previously served as a FIDE arbiter and fair play official across four consecutive World Championship events. He also holds the position of Secretary of the World Chess Composition Federation.
Abdul Ghani noted that the accreditation reflects the growing profile of chess within the UAE and highlighted the role of the Fujairah Chess and Culture Club in developing regional sports talent.
He affirmed his commitment to integrating this international anti-cheating expertise into the domestic circuit to enhance the UAE's presence within global chess.
He also expressed gratitude to the club's board of directors and the wider Emirati chess community for their continued support.