Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival Concludes With Promising Young Talent And Medal Winners

The Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival concluded on Saturday, marking a significant event in the seventeenth edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. Young athletes from global clubs and academies showcased their skills on the final day, highlighting the sport's bright future. The festival also celebrated top-performing academies, with Kazakhstan Team leading the medal tally, followed by Russia’s Gymnasium Team and FAB Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

Held 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 championship saw participation from over 10,000 athletes representing more than 130 countries. The event attracted numerous dignitaries, including Sheikh Ahmed bin Nasser bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi.

Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, emphasised the importance of youth involvement: "The children we saw on the mat today represent the future. Their participation reflects the Federation’s goal of empowering the next generation through sport. When you see a four-year-old step forward with confidence, you know we are teaching values that will stay with them for life, such as respect, discipline, patience, perseverance and teamwork."

He further added that this early stage is crucial for nurturing a generation that balances mind and body while developing skills to face challenges confidently. Jiu-jitsu provides children with a safe environment to learn life skills alongside competition experience.

The Mubadala Arena was vibrant with families from diverse backgrounds cheering for their young ones. This lively atmosphere highlighted how sports can strengthen family ties and community bonds. The human side of sport was evident as families united to support their children in this energetic setting.

With kids' competitions now complete, focus shifts to Sunday’s commencement of the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship. This event is part of the seventeenth edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. Talented youth from around the globe will continue striving for success amidst an atmosphere brimming with passion and excitement.

Dignitaries present included Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Abdullah Abdulali Al Humaidan from Zayed Authority for People of Determination; Masood Rahma Al Masood from Abu Dhabi Chamber; Tariq Ahmed Al Masood from Maryah Community Bank; Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri from UAEJJF Board; and Fahad Ali Al Shamsi himself.

With inputs from WAM