Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship To Launch In Al Ain Region This August

The inaugural Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025 is set to occur from August 1 to 3, 2025, at the ADNEC Centre in Al Ain. Organised by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM) in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT), this event is part of the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) initiative. It aims to meet the rising global interest in combat sports, particularly grappling.

Over three days, hundreds of male and female athletes from more than 20 countries will compete. Participants range from youth and amateurs to masters and professionals. This championship will further establish Al Ain Region as a top destination for elite combat sports events.

Saeed AL Dhaheri, Director of Destination Management at DCT, highlighted Abu Dhabi's growing reputation as a hub for major sporting events. He stated, "As Abu Dhabi grows in prominence as a hub for major global sporting events, combat sports have emerged as an increasingly important pillar of our sport and entertainment vision for the emirate. Joining such IPs as Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, UFC Fight Nights, and the Jiu-Jitsu World Championships, we are proud to welcome the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship to our portfolio of leading events. We look forward to new audiences in Al Ain Region and across Abu Dhabi being introduced to this exciting and increasingly popular sport."

Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of IVSM, expressed pride in launching this unique event in Al Ain Region. He remarked on its significance for the UAE's leadership in hosting top-tier combat sports. "We are proud to launch the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship, the first of its kind globally, in Al Ain Region, Abu Dhabi. This event underscores the UAE’s leadership in hosting elite combat sports, offering a platform for athletes worldwide to excel," he said.

The championship is part of the AJP Tour and will follow international standards. Competitors from various nationalities can join different age divisions: U14, U16, U18, 18+, and 35+. Both amateur and professional categories are available. Winners will gain 2,000 ranking points along with significant cash prizes.

The opening day will feature professional matches up to semi-finals. Youth and amateur competitions will take place on the second day. The final day will host third-place playoffs followed by exciting finals.

Promoting Sports Tourism

Al Ain Region was selected as the host city due to its rising importance within Abu Dhabi's sports scene. This choice highlights Abu Dhabi's dedication to fostering sports tourism while nurturing new talent with support from leading academies and enthusiastic fans throughout GCC and MENA regions.

With backing from DCT – Abu Dhabi, organisers aim to deliver unmatched competition quality while establishing a lasting legacy for grappling within this region.

With inputs from WAM