(MENAFN- Action PR) Dhabi, 14 November 2025: The excitement continued today (Friday) at the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival, taking place as part of the 17th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. Friday’s schedule featured the kids divisions, bringing together young competitors from clubs and academies around the world.
The event, 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, is hosting more than 10,000 male and female athletes from over 130 countries.
Among the dignitaries who attended the event today 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. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Sports; H.E. Dr Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University of Science and Technology; H.E. Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; H.E. Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, UAEJJF Board Member; H.E. Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, UAEJJF Board Member; Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAEJJF; Fouad Darwish, CEO and Managing Director of Palms Sports; and Shamsa Muaid Al Ahbabi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Al Khaznah Leathers.
H.E. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri said: “We congratulate the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation for delivering an event that sets a new benchmark for professionalism and organisation, and for bringing together more than 10,000 athletes from 130 countries. The hundreds of kids from the UAE taking part show how strong the youth base for the sport is in the country, and this foundation is vital for future success.
“The big turnout and the great atmosphere today highlight Abu Dhabi’s position as the world capital of jiu-jitsu. This championship showcases the best of the UAE’s sports sector, not only through strong competition but also through the positive cultural and human messages it shares with the world. It reflects the leadership’s vision of using sport as a bridge that connects people and cultures.”
H.E. Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri said: “The strong presence of families today shows the important role jiu-jitsu now plays in our community. It brings families closer and encourages children to grow with discipline and commitment. Seeing parents follow their children’s matches moment by moment proves that jiu-jitsu has become both a national project and a deep-rooted social culture in the UAE and beyond. Its values start at home long before they are practised on the mat, and this reflects a clear understanding of how sport supports children’s character, confidence, and wellbeing.”
He added: “With the support of our visionary leadership, the Federation has turned this championship into an event that brings families from around the world together around values such as teamwork, respect, and perseverance. Watching children compete with confidence, supported by their parents, is the best example that investing in young generations is the most meaningful and lasting investment.”
Fatima Al Shehi, mother of Aws from ADMA Academy, said: “Jiu-jitsu has become an important part of our children’s lives. It’s not just physical training; it helps shape their character and teaches discipline and self-confidence. Through my son‘s journey, I’ve seen how jiu-jitsu has made him more responsible and focused, and this has positively impacted his school performance and behaviour.”
“This sport teaches children how to face challenges calmly and respectfully. It builds cooperation and perseverance, which strengthens their sense of belonging and helps them grow into well-balanced individuals. As families, we truly appreciate the efforts of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation in developing this sport and creating opportunities for children to progress in a safe and encouraging environment that supports the national vision of building a stronger future generation.”
Anthony Ciccone, father of six-year-old Roman from the Australian Elite Team, said: “We travelled from Australia specifically to take part in the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship because of its strong global reputation. It is not only one of the largest events in the world, but also one of the most professional and well-managed. It gives young athletes a valuable experience and teaches them the real meaning of fair competition and discipline.”
“Abu Dhabi has shown that it is the global home of jiu-jitsu by creating an environment that combines sporting excellence with cultural richness, while encouraging families to support their children. We are grateful for an experience that brings together sport, education, and culture in an inspiring setting.”

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