Choosing the right section
Most first-time entrants overthink this: if you have a FIDE or national rating and want the strongest competition, the Open section is the default choice, since it carries the main prize fund and norm opportunities. If you're a junior player, an age-banded Youth section will give you more evenly matched opponents. Adults returning to competitive chess after a long break are also welcome in the Open section — the Swiss system will pair you against opponents of a similar strength as the rounds progress.
Before you travel
Register early where possible; entry fees rise closer to the event and popular sections can fill. If you don't yet have a FIDE ID, request one when you register rather than at the venue, since it saves time during check-in. Bring a printed or digital copy of your confirmation, a passport or Emirates ID, and — if you're chasing a title norm — a note of your current rating history in case the arbiter team needs to verify it.
What arrival day looks like
Player registration and equipment checks run through the afternoon of arrival day, followed by a technical meeting where the Chief Arbiter confirms pairing rules, tie-break systems and the anti-cheating protocol for the week. The opening ceremony and the first round of the Rapid side event usually follow the same evening — see the full schedule for exact timing.
During the rounds
Pairings are posted on the official boards and published online within roughly 30 minutes of release each round. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your round; FIDE rules allow only a short default time before a no-show forfeits the game. Between rounds, the training hall runs open clinics most mornings — a good way to fill the time and pick up something useful before your next game.