A landmark moment for international boxing took place in Dushanbe, Tajikistan as the Chairman of Majlisi milli Majlisi Oli, Chairman of Dushanbe city, Honourable Rustam Emomali, together with International Boxing Association (IBA) President Umar Kremlev, officially launched the construction of the first-ever IBA Arena by laying the foundation stone for a major sports and hospitality complex in the Sino district of the Tajik capital.

The project marks a historic milestone for the IBA, which will receive its first dedicated arena anywhere in the world. Designed as a multifunctional venue, the complex is set to become one of Central Asia’s leading destinations for boxing, international sporting events, cultural activities and business gatherings.

During the ceremony, officials were presented with details of the development, which will cover more than 2.15 hectares and feature a three-storey arena with a capacity of up to 7,000 spectators. The venue will include a congress hall, training facilities, athlete areas, VIP hospitality spaces and spectator lounges, creating a modern home for boxing in the region.

The arena has been designed not only to host elite boxing competitions but also to serve as a year-round centre for sporting, educational and community activities. In addition to the main competition hall, the project includes dedicated training gyms, coaching facilities and supporting infrastructure for athletes and officials.

Adjacent to the arena, a modern five-star hotel with 340 apartments will be constructed to support the successful staging of national and international events. According to the project concept, the hotel will include luxury and standard accommodation, conference facilities, a fitness centre, spa complex, children’s centre, restaurants and rooftop hospitality areas, creating a fully integrated sports and tourism destination.

The arena itself will feature more than 26,000 square metres of total floor space, while an underground parking facility for over 200 vehicles will ensure convenient access for visitors and participants.