Abu Dhabi: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 18th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is scheduled to commence tomorrow at the Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi. The event will feature more than 10,000 athletes from 130 countries, competing over 13 days for medals and a prize pool exceeding AED3 million.
According to Emirates News Agency, the championship underscores Abu Dhabi's status as a leading global center for jiu-jitsu and the sport's development. The UAE's long-term investment in sport and athlete development is reflected in this championship, which has grown significantly since its inception in 2009. The event aims to increase participation, identify young talent, and develop champions, attracting leading athletes, clubs, and academies from around the world.
The championship will kick off with the Abu Dhabi World Amateur Jiu-Jitsu Championship, featuring men's and women's adult and masters blue belt competitions. The Abu Dhabi World Para Jiu-Jitsu Championship will also take place, highlighting the diversity of categories and participants.
From its humble beginnings with 222 athletes from 32 countries, the championship has expanded into one of the largest annual gatherings of jiu-jitsu professionals. Participation has surged over the years, with more than 10,000 athletes taking part in the previous edition in 2025, emphasizing Abu Dhabi's commitment to jiu-jitsu development.
The competition has been instrumental in the development of UAE athletes, providing them opportunities to compete at high levels. Notable achievements include Zayed Al Katheeri's historic win as the first Emirati to secure a professional black belt gold medal in 2022.
This year's edition will feature renowned athletes such as Thiago Barreto, who holds 11 titles, and Gabriela Pereira, who will defend her 55kg professional division title. The championship will also host a series of events including the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship and the Abu Dhabi World Masters Jiu-Jitsu Championship, culminating in the prestigious Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship and the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Awards ceremony.
The championship not only aims to showcase elite competition but also offers activities for families and visitors, promoting jiu-jitsu within the community and encouraging youth participation. This reinforces the UAE's dedication to sports and its role as a global hub for jiu-jitsu, extending its influence on an international scale.