Abu Dhabi is preparing to host the World's Strongest Man (WSM) Competition under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Muhammad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan from February 12 to 14.

Twenty two contestants from 20 countries will participate in this championship, which will be held in the UAE for the first time.

The contestants compete to win the WSM title by demonstrating their physical abilities in various disciplines such as pulling bulky objects (rocks, trucks and airplanes), lifting heavy weights and tug of war.

A panel of international judges will determine the winners and their rankings based on the results they achieve in the various events within the competition.

The official opening ceremony will take place at the Abu Dhabi Armed Forces Officers Club on February 11 while the event activities and competitions will take place at Khalifa Park from February 12 to 14 from 4pm to 9pm. Admission will be free.

Along with the championship, a host of social activities and kids entertainment will be offered, including a horse show and other exciting activities, to attract the public and provide fun to all members of the family.

Abu Dhabi is hosting the competition as part of the organising committee's efforts to promote sport in the UAE in general and Abu Dhabi in particular and to encourage Emirati youths to develop their skills and physical abilities in the right way.

Talal Al Homeiri, chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, said: "We are pleased to host this international competition that seeks to promote the concepts of physical strength and its connection to health. Organising this competition in Abu Dhabi shows the emirate's growing role in the area of sport and its interest in supporting various sports activities and underlining the importance of sport in society. The UAE is known for hosting and welcoming new sports, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Muhammad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, the patron of this competition, is a big fan of sports in general. I am sure that we will present to sport fans and the general public in Abu Dhabi and the world a wonderful competition and entertaining events that will attract everyone."