Abu dhabi: The 17th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is set to take place from 12th to 22nd November at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. The championship will feature 10,000 athletes from more than 130 countries, marking it as the most expansive and competitive edition in its history.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Organising Committee has announced that registration has concluded, establishing this event as a milestone that underscores Abu Dhabi's reputation as the global capital of jiu-jitsu and a premier destination for international sports. Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice-Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chairman of the Championship Organising Committee, expressed gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his unwavering support, which has significantly elevated the sport both nationally and internationally.
Al Dhaheri highlighted the championship's evolution into a global platform for competition, cultural exchange, and community spirit, welcoming athletes and spectators to the UAE. Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasized the event's alignment with Abu Dhabi's vision to be a global sports hub. Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategy Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, noted the championship's contribution to social and economic growth through sport.
Long-term partners such as Jaguar Land Rover and First Abu Dhabi Bank have reiterated their support for the championship, aiming to empower youth and promote positive national values. Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, pointed out the participation of 730 clubs and academies, with significant international representation and a notable percentage of female competitors.
The championship will commence with the amateur category on 12th November, followed by the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival and Para Jiu-Jitsu competitions from 13th to 15th November. Youth events will take place on 16th and 17th November, masters' divisions on 18th and 19th November, with professional contests concluding the championship from 20th to 22nd November. Now in its 17th edition, the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship continues to set new standards for participation and quality, solidifying the UAE's influence in the global jiu-jitsu community.