KUUMAR SHYAM (ABU DHABI)
The 17th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (World Pro), held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, will see record participation and the milestone of over 10,000 athletes achieved in the middle of the month.
The largest and most prestigious event on the international calendar will be held from November 12 to 22 at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City.
The details were revealed at a press conference on Thursday at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, attended by a host of dignitaries including UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation officials Mohamed Al Dhaheri (Chairman), Mohammed Hamid Al Dhaheri (Board Member) and Fahad Al Shamsi (Secretary General); Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council; Saeed Ali Al Fazari, Executive Director for Strategy Affairs at Department of Culture and Tourism - DCT Abu Dhabi; Yaqoub Al Saadi, Head of Abu Dhabi Sports Channels; along with representatives of sponsor partners.
The Organising Committee had earlier announced the closure of registration with entries from more than 130 countries. This milestone highlights the growing confidence of the global jiu-jitsu community in the championship’s organisation, while further cementing Abu Dhabi’s status as the world capital of jiu-jitsu and a leading international hub for sports.
Al Dhaheri extended his gratitude to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, saying his support has helped turn a vision into reality and made the UAE a global leader in the sport.
He also expressed his deepest appreciation for His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed for his guidance and ongoing support, which have strengthened the sport and made it a national success story.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to our national team athletes, who have proudly raised the UAE flag at every international event, most recently at the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship in Thailand, where they impressed with their performance, discipline, and results [winning 10 medals.]
“We also thank the families of the athletes for their constant support, as they are true partners in every success. We also value the efforts of the coaches, administrators, and the Federation team who work together with dedication and team spirit.”
Al Awani said the championship “reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to be a global sports hub and a home for jiu-jitsu champions. The event has become a model of excellence, thanks to our leadership’s support. We are proud to host a sport that promotes discipline, respect and excellence, and continues to shape future champions.”