Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has inaugurated the 16th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, taking place at the Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi, until 16 November 2024.
His Highness attended part of the championship’s competitions and awarded medals to several winners.
This year’s championship features more than 9,000 athletes from 137 countries, spanning various age groups and categories.
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the pivotal role of this prominent sporting event in advancing efforts to nurture future champions, develop their skills, and enhance their capabilities in jiu-jitsu at both local and international levels.
His Highness also reaffirmed the tournament's significance in showcasing the UAE's ongoing efforts to develop jiu-jitsu and promote its practice across the community, emphasising the sport’s role in instilling values of discipline and commitment, while enhancing the physical and mental capabilities of the younger generation.
During the inauguration ceremony, His Highness was accompanied by His Excellency Dr Ahmed Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports; Her Excellency Sara Awadh Musallam, Chairperson of Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge; His Excellency Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Al Hashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation; UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation members; and several senior officials.
His Excellency Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Al Hashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: "I extend my sincere thanks to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, for their unlimited support and visionary approach, which has enabled us to elevate jiu-jitsu in the UAE and worldwide. Their guidance has been instrumental in promoting this noble sport and embedding its values across different segments of Emirati community.
"The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship continues to grow significantly each year, as demonstrated by the tournament’s success and increasing global attention, reflected in the rising number of athletes participating with every edition. This championship offers a comprehensive platform that inspires young and emerging talent, advances the careers of professional athletes, and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a global hub for jiu-jitsu and a prime destination for champions and aspiring athletes. Additionally, the tournament serves as a valuable opportunity to showcase Abu Dhabi's cultural development and heritage to a diverse international audience."
