Strong Fan Turnout and High-Intensity Action on Day Two of Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship
Abu Dhabi, 13 November 2025: The Mubadala Arena delivered a packed and energetic atmosphere today (Thursday) as Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival, for kids and the Abu Dhabi World Para Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2025 for para-athletes got underway. Both competitions form a key part of the 17th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and featuring more than 10,000 athletes from over 130 countries.
Among the dignitaries attending the competitions Thursday were H.E. Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union and Senior Vice President of the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation; H.E. Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and chairman of the championship organising committee; H.E. Mohammed Fadel Al Hameli, Chairman of the UAE National Paralympics Committee and Board Member of the International Paralympic Committee; H.E. Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, UAEJJF Board Member; H.E. Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, UAEJJF Board Member; Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Agthia Group; Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Mohammed Khalfan Al Rumaithi, Vice President of Business Support at ADNOC; Omar Mohamed Karmastaji, Vice President Group General Services at ADNOC; and several representatives of local and international jiu-jitsu clubs and academies.
H.E. Yousef Abdullah Al Batran said: “Today’s performances and crowd turnout shows again that jiu-jitsu is for everyone, no matter the age or category. It has become a national sport that builds mental strength and brings the community together. The para-jiu-jitsu competitions highlight the country’s commitment to supporting People of Determination by giving them a platform to show their abilities and inspire others.
“The kids’ competitions reflect the Federation’s commitment to instilling the values of jiu-jitsu in young athletes. The discipline and focus we see from the young athletes in the UAE today are the result of the School Jiu-Jitsu Programme, which is recognised worldwide for helping young athletes grow in their skills, mindset and values through jiu-jitsu.”
H.E. Mohamed Fadhel Al Hamlet added: “This championship is a major international event with more than 10,000 athletes from 130 countries. It is an honour for People of Determination to be part of an event of this size. We thank the organising committee, the chairman and vice chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, and the Board Members for including People of Determination in a global championship that athletes are proud to join.”
Abdulrahman, father of Zayed Al Hammadi, who competed in the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival, said: “We are here not only to cheer, but also to support our children in building confidence and character. Zayed started jiu-jitsu because he enjoyed it and joined the team at School. The organisation is excellent, especially with the attention to detail and the activities and food options available around the Arena.”
Aseem Khan from the UK, who was at the arena supporting his son Omarion, said: “I have three children aged 6, 8 and 12. The eldest, Omarion, is competing today. My daughter Samaria competes tomorrow, and my youngest, Aariz, will compete on Saturday. The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is very well organised and the atmosphere is excellent, with a great mix of cultures. We are grateful to Abu Dhabi for hosting such a strong championship. We look forward to good results and to competing at as many events here as possible.”
Emirati Eissa Al Qubaisi of Al Wahda Club, who competed in para category today, said: “I’m really happy with how things went today. Competing alongside People of Determination is always inspiring and reminds me of why I love this sport. I tried to stay focused in every match and stick to the plan we worked on in training. My coaches and teammates supported me throughout the day and that made a big difference. I will keep working hard to improve and aim for even better results in the future.”
Brazilian Arthur Pereira Rezende from Gracie Barra, who won bronze in the para category today, said: “I’m really proud to be part of this sport, and I’m very happy to be here competing at the Abu Dhabi World Para Jiu-Jitsu Championship. I’m a former world champion and I won my medal in Thailand before, so being back at another international event of this level means a lot to me. I was aiming for gold this time, but it did not happen. I hope to win it in the future. It is a great event with a great atmosphere, and it is very inclusive. That is the best part about this sport.”
Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival competitions continue tomorrow (Friday) in a vibrant family atmosphere that highlights the role of sport in shaping future generations and reinforcing positive values across the community.