Abu Dhabi Set to Host Record-Breaking Jiu-Jitsu Championship

Abu Dhabi is preparing to welcome a record 10,000 athletes from more than 130 countries for the 17th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, taking place from November 12 to 22 at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City. The prestigious event is being held under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

Event details were announced during a press conference at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Abu Dhabi, where organizers highlighted the growing influence of Abu Dhabi as a global destination for martial arts.

Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, commended the country’s athletes for their recent strong performances, including at the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship in Thailand. “We also thank the families of the athletes for their constant support, as they are true partners in every success. We value the efforts of the coaches, administrators, and federation team who work with dedication and team spirit,” Al Dhaheri said.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said the championship reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to establish itself as a global sports hub. “The event has become a model of excellence, thanks to our leadership’s support. We are proud to host a sport that promotes discipline, respect, and excellence, and continues to shape future champions,” he said.

Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director for Strategy Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, noted the capital’s growing reputation for successfully organizing major international sporting events. “Abu Dhabi has proven its ability to host global sporting and cultural events with world-class facilities and exceptional hospitality,” he said.

According to Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, this year’s championship will feature a significant female presence, with women making up 32 percent of the participants. He added that 60 percent of competitors are traveling from outside the UAE.

The 10-day championship will open on November 12 with the amateur category, followed by the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival for children from November 13 to 15, which will run alongside the Para Jiu-Jitsu competitions on November 13. Youth categories will compete on November 16 and 17, while the master’s events will take place on November 18 and 19. The championship will conclude with the professional divisions from November 20 to 22.

Organizers say the 17th edition will not only celebrate sporting excellence but also reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as the global capital of jiu-jitsu.