Post by : Meena Ariff

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 17th World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is set to take place from 12th to 22nd November at the Mubadala Arena, Zayed Sports City.

This edition boasts a remarkable participation of 10,000 athletes, representing more than 130 countries, marking it as the largest and most competitive championship to date. This achievement underscores Abu Dhabi’s position as a central player in the world of jiu-jitsu and a prime venue for international sporting events.

Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice-Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chair of the Championship Organizing Committee, expressed gratitude towards President H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his continued support towards the sport’s growth. He also acknowledged H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's guidance, noting that the championship serves as a global stage for competition, cultural exchange, and community development.

“This year's championship is unprecedented, with 10,000 competitors joining us from across the globe. Welcome to the UAE, a nation celebrated for its creativity, generosity, and inclusivity,” Al Dhaheri stated.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasized that this championship aligns with Abu Dhabi’s goal of becoming a global sports fulcrum. Additionally, Saeed Ali Obaid Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategy Affairs at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, pointed out the event's potential for catalyzing social and economic development through sports.

Long-term sponsors like Jaguar Land Rover and First Abu Dhabi Bank reiterated their commitment to supporting jiu-jitsu, focusing on youth empowerment and the promotion of positive societal values.

Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, highlighted that 730 clubs and academies are involved, featuring 32% female athletes and 60% international participants, showcasing the growing global appeal and organizational excellence of the championship.

The competition will commence on 12th November with amateur events, followed by the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival and Para Jiu-Jitsu events from 13th to 15th November. Youth competitions are scheduled for 16th and 17th November, masters’ categories on 18th and 19th November, culminating with professional contests from 20th to 22nd November.

Now in its 17th iteration, the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship continues to elevate standards in participation, quality, and global involvement, reinforcing the UAE’s pivotal role in the sport's worldwide expansion.

#Sports News #Abu Dhabi News