The prestigious event, which runs from November 12 to 22, is regarded as the world’s largest jiu-jitsu competition and a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s sporting calendar.
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The prestigious event, which runs from November 12 to 22, is regarded as the world’s largest jiu-jitsu competition and a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s sporting calendar.
Under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 17th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship began with great enthusiasm at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City. The prestigious event, which runs from November 12 to 22, is regarded as the world’s largest jiu-jitsu competition and a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s sporting calendar.
This year’s championship features an impressive 10,000 athletes representing more than 130 countries, marking a record-breaking level of participation. Over 730 clubs and academies are taking part, reflecting the event’s international appeal. Notably, women account for 32 percent of the total competitors, while 60 percent of participants come from outside the UAE — a testament to Abu Dhabi’s global influence in the martial arts arena.
The 11-day schedule is divided into several key categories: amateur bouts opened the event, followed by the Jiu-Jitsu Festival for children and juniors, including Para Jiu-Jitsu contests. The youth and junior divisions will unfold across the weekend, with the masters’ competitions and the elite professional category closing the championship.
Organisers have highlighted that this year’s edition reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global sports hub and its ongoing investment in nurturing talent. Beyond the medals and titles, the championship demonstrates the UAE’s long-term commitment to making jiu-jitsu a core part of its cultural and community fabric.
The event also serves as a platform for emerging athletes to showcase their skills before international scouts, while elite fighters battle for ranking points and significant prize money. The atmosphere at Mubadala Arena is expected to reach new heights as the professional rounds conclude, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s reputation as the true capital of jiu-jitsu.
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