The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship returns to Mubadala Arena this November, and organisers are preparing for the largest turnout in the event's history. With registration numbers approaching 12,000 athletes, this 18th edition is set to be the biggest jiu-jitsu gathering ever held in the UAE.
In 2023, the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship attracted athletes from over 100 countries, setting a new record for international participation.
Global academies and technical exchange
This championship stands out for the range of academies represented. Athletes bring different technical backgrounds and training styles, creating a mix of approaches on the mats. For many, it's a rare chance to face unfamiliar opponents and learn from new tactics-an experience usually reserved for the world's top events.
According to the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, the championship has contributed significantly to the growth of jiu-jitsu in the region, with the number of registered practitioners in the UAE surpassing 60,000 as of 2023. The event has also played a key role in promoting para-jiu-jitsu, with dedicated categories and increased international visibility in recent years.
Operational challenge and sporting impact
Managing this scale is a major logistical task and a sign of confidence in Abu Dhabi's ability to deliver a top-level sporting event. Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice President of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and head of the organising committee, credits the championship's reputation for technical quality and reliable organisation for attracting such a broad international field. "The value of international participation is not just in numbers, but in the diversity of schools and expertise converging in Abu Dhabi," Al Dhaheri said. "When athletes from different continents and academies meet, the technical level rises and the opportunities for learning multiply."
For Abu Dhabi, the championship is more than a sporting event. It's a way to strengthen its position in combat sports and support the growth of jiu-jitsu both locally and worldwide. The city's investment in facilities and athlete services is drawing both elite and grassroots competitors.
Abu Dhabi's focus on hosting the World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship has set a new standard for the sport. By bringing together a record number of athletes and encouraging technical exchange, the city is helping shape the future of jiu-jitsu. For those seeking the highest level of competition and development, Abu Dhabi has become a key destination.
