Jiu-Jitsu UAE Youth Championship Round 1: Sharjah Self-Defence Tops Opening Day

The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship - Round 1 No Gi opened at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex in Dubai with strong contests across youth divisions. U12, U14 and U16 athletes delivered high-level performances, while Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club led the first-day standings ahead of Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club and Palms Sports - Team 777.

The No Gi round highlighted the growing strength of jiu-jitsu among young athletes in the UAE, with coaches and families closely involved. Club programmes and specialised academies showed their impact as children demonstrated discipline, technical awareness and confidence on the mats, supported by organised training structures and continuous encouragement from parents and guardians.

UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation officials stressed that the youth categories remain a strategic priority. They explained that investment in younger age groups is vital for preparing athletes who can compete at regional and international championships. The approach aims to develop technical skills early, while shaping athletes’ character, resilience and long-term commitment to the sport.

Mohamed Hussain Al Marzooqi underlined how the No Gi format supports this plan by challenging young competitors in a different way. "No Gi competitions offer a different challenge in jiu-jitsu, with a focus on speed, flexibility and tactical awareness. We include this format to help develop athletes’ skills, prepare them for international competition, and build well-rounded athletes who can adapt to different styles."

Al Marzooqi also linked the event to the Year of the Family, saying that the championship shows how sport can strengthen family ties. He noted that parents’ presence in the stands helps build discipline and confidence in young athletes, while also reinforcing values of effort, respect and perseverance within homes and local communities.

That family influence was clear in the case of ADMA Academy athlete Zayed Mesbahi, who competed in the U12 42kg division. His father, Ibrahim Mohammed Mesbahi, attended with Zayed’s brothers, who also practise the sport. Ibrahim said, "This is Zayed’s first time competing in the championship. He has been practising jiu-jitsu for one year alongside his three brothers, Mohammed, Hamdan and Maktoum. We are pleased with his performance and his fourth-place finish. I believe jiu-jitsu is a global sport that receives strong support in the UAE, offers many benefits to athletes, and teaches self-confidence, determination and perseverance."

Officials, results and next rounds at Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship

The first day drew a wide presence of officials and guests, who also joined medal ceremonies. Attendees included Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, Board Members Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Mohamed Hussain Al Marzooqi and Humaid Mohammed Al Ketbi, along with several senior representatives from the Federation, Q Mobility and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank.

Across the age groups, Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club secured first place on Day 1. Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club held second, with Palms Sports - Team 777 in third. Federation officials said such results reflect the quality of structured club training, with young athletes showing good technical levels, tactical understanding and respect for rules throughout their matches.

The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship continues on the following day with U18, Adults and Masters competitions. Clubs and academies are expected to field large teams, creating a competitive atmosphere that promotes sportsmanship and discipline, while further strengthening jiu-jitsu’s image in the UAE as a sport that unites families around shared goals.

With inputs from WAM