The discipline
Karate originated on Japan’s Okinawa Island, blending local fighting traditions with Chinese martial arts.
It developed into a disciplined form of self-defense emphasizing strikes, kicks, and defensive movements.
Recognized worldwide, karate made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020.
At the Games
Karate has appeared in every edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games and returns in Riyadh 2025, featuring 144 athletes competing for 12 gold medals across Kata and Kumite events for men and women.
Competitions will take place on 11–12 November 2025 at Malaz Combat Hall.
Entry
NOCs will allocate slots according to the WKF Ranking with priority given to the highest-ranked athletes within each weight category. Each NOC may allocate a maximum of three athletes per gender across events. Should the total quota of 144 athletes be exceeded, the WKF will provide the Local Organizing Committee with a list of qualified NOCs for each medal event. Registered athletes must comply with the WKF age and weight requirements.
