ABU DHABI: This year’s successes in local, national and international championships came under the spotlight at a UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation board meeting on Thursday.
The directors also focused on the achievements of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Championship and looked ahead to future competitions, including the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship taking place in Greece this month.
The meeting, held at the Federation’s headquarters, was chaired by Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Al-Hashmi, chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, president of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union, and senior vice president of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation.
He said: “The support of our wise leadership is the key to the success of jiu-jitsu locally and internationally. It has helped position the UAE as a global leader in the sport and achieve significant accomplishments at both the continental and international levels.”
Discussions focused on an intensive training camp which aims to boost the athletes’ technical and physical readiness for the world championship, helping them build on a legacy of four consecutive world titles.
The board also reviewed the current season, which has seen significant local and international participation in various events that are key to expanding the number of jiu-jitsu participants, creating community engagement and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
A comprehensive report on the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship highlighted the success of the event, particularly the increase in numbers of those taking part. So far, the four rounds have attracted 7,700 male and female athletes from 60 clubs and academies across the UAE, testament to the Federation’s strategy to broaden the sport’s reach and raise awareness of its physical and mental benefits.
The report also noted the strong public turnout, with over 10,000 spectators attending. Their support has enhanced the competitive atmosphere and motivated athletes. The championship has uncovered new talent, elevated the standard of competition, boosted public interest, and provided a highly competitive environment in line with international standards.
The fifth and final round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship will take place in December at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi.
The meeting also touched upon final preparations for the 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, set to take place in November.
Mohamed Salem Al-Dhaheri, vice chairman of the Federation and chairman of the championship’s organizing committee, said: “Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship continues to establish itself as the top international jiu-jitsu event, drawing elite athletes from around the world. This edition marks a key moment, especially in terms of global participation further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as the world’s jiu-jitsu capital.
“We are focused on maintaining the high standards of the world’s largest jiu-jitsu championship, ensuring top-level organization and creating the best experience for both participants and fans.”
The board also discussed the agenda for the 2025 season, with a focus on diversifying events to support sustainable development and growth in the sport. Plans were outlined to expand the scope of competitions to include additional age groups and attract elite athletes from around the world.
