Palm Sports and the Ministry of Education have agreed to extend the UAE's school jiu-jitsu programme for another three years, with AED 600.5 million committed through 2029. The new contract, confirmed by Al Etihad, starts on September 1, 2026.
The school jiu-jitsu programme was first launched in 2011 and has steadily expanded to reach its current nationwide scale.
The Ministry's decision to renew is based on the programme's track record. The curriculum aims to build not just physical fitness, but also discipline, resilience, and self-confidence-qualities the UAE's leadership has highlighted as priorities for the next generation. Official statements cited by Al Etihad describe the programme as a way to foster character and confidence in young people.
Fouad Darwish, CEO of Palm Sports, said, "This is not just about teaching a combat sport. It's about building character, discipline, and the ability to face challenges from an early age." He credited the UAE's leadership for focusing on youth development and thanked the Ministry for its continued trust in Palm Sports. According to Al Etihad, Darwish sees the extension as a sign of the country's commitment to investing in its youth.
The programme currently covers around 150,000 students across 279 schools nationwide, with 488 specialized jiu-jitsu coaches delivering structured training. Palm Sports will continue as the exclusive operator, ensuring consistency and quality in implementation.
For the UAE, this agreement is a long-term investment in education and youth development. By making jiu-jitsu part of the school day for thousands of children, the government is using sport to promote national values and prepare students for the future.
