Abu Dhabi: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship will commence at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City tomorrow. The event, scheduled from November 6th to 16th, will feature 9,000 athletes from 137 countries.

According to Emirates News Agency, Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohamed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, welcomed guests to the UAE, expressing confidence in delivering a memorable experience for participants. He emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering excellence in sports, highlighting the country’s reputation as a homeland of peace, coexistence, and tolerance.

The championship has witnessed significant growth since its inception, with participation increasing from 260 athletes in 2009 to 9,000 in 2024. This represents an 80 percent rise over the past two years and a 50 percent increase in international competitors since 2022. Countries like Kazakhstan, Russia, Brazil, and Colo
mbia have significantly contributed to the event’s international appeal.

Khaled Al Shehhi, a competitor in the 62kg black belt category, stated his readiness for the competition, aiming for the gold medal. The championship will begin with an opening ceremony featuring entertainment activities and performances by Emirati jiu-jitsu athletes.

The event will start with the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival for Kids on November 6th and 7th, followed by Para-Jiu-Jitsu competitions on November 7th, and the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship on November 8th and 9th. The Amateur category will compete on November 10th and 11th, with the Masters category following on November 12th and 13th.

The championship will conclude with the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship from November 14th to 16th, followed by the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Awards ceremony on November 17th.