UAE Chess Star Safin Sets Sights on Becoming Youngest World Champion

Eleven-year-old Safin Safarullakhan, a rising chess star based in the UAE, has ambitious goals for his future: to become the youngest Grandmaster and the youngest world champion in chess history. Currently, the record for the youngest Grandmaster belongs to Abhimanyu Mishra, who broke Sergey Karjakin’s long-standing record by over two months.

Safin recently made headlines by becoming the youngest FIDE Master (FM) in the region, achieving the title after remarkable victories over Grandmasters Evgeniy Podolchenko and Handszar Odeev at the IM-3 RR 102 Putnik Tournament in Serbia. Reflecting on his achievement, Safin said, “I’m very happy with my results. My goal is to keep improving and reach the very top.”

According to the latest FIDE ratings, Safin is ranked fifth globally and third in Asia in the Under-12 category. In the UAE, he is the top-ranked player under 12 and third among all active players, highlighting his position as one of the country’s brightest young sporting talents.

His achievements already include a bronze medal at the 2022 World Cadet Chess Championship (Under-8), gold at the 2022 Western Asia Chess Championship (Under-8), and a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Chess Championship (Under-8), along with several national and international titles.

Safin emphasized the importance of family support in his journey, saying, “My parents, Safarullakhan and Shamna, always encourage me, motivate me to work hard, stay focused, and never give up.” He is currently a Grade 5 student at Delhi Private School Sharjah.

He trains under Grandmaster Viorel Iordachescu at the Sharjah Chess and Cultural Club, with guidance from Grandmaster G. A. Stany and mentorship from International Master Jubin Jimmy. Recently, he switched his chess federation from India to the UAE, becoming the first player to represent the UAE at such a young age—an important milestone in the nation’s chess history.

Safin expressed gratitude to his coaches, family, the UAE Chess Federation, and Delhi Private School Sharjah for their support and scholarships.

Abdulla Murad, a representative from the Sharjah Chess and Cultural Club, praised Safin’s discipline and maturity: “Safin is an exceptional talent. His mindset and commitment to improvement set him apart. We are confident he has all the qualities to reach the very top and are proud to support him.”

With his dedication, strong guidance, and impressive track record, Safin Safarullakhan is poised to leave a lasting mark on the world of chess.