Abu Dhabi, November 6, 2024: 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, the 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship started in grand style at Mubadala Arena on Wednesday. The event opened with the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival, featuring thrilling competitions in Junior, Teen, and Youth categories, cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd of parents and family members.
The competitions were attended by a host of dignitaries, including H.E. Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports; H.E. Sara Awadh Musallam, Chairperson of Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge; Chargé d’Affairs at Syrian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Minister Counselor Wael Ismail Al-Khalil; H.E. Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohamed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation; H.E. Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Undersecretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in the Al Dhafra Region; His Excellency Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; His Excellency Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail; H.E. Mohamed Haji AlKhoori, Director General of the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation; Mr. Saeed Humaid Al-Tayer, Managing Director at Al Tayer Motors; H.E. Salem Ali Al Shamsi, Executive Director of Social Incubation and Contracting at the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an; His Excellency Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; and Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation.
The official opening ceremony of the championship featured a special performance by Emirati artist Hussain Al Jasmi. He performed an operetta titled “Our Global Capital,” combining Emirati heritage with the cultures of other countries, symbolising the event’s role in bringing people together in Abu Dhabi. The performance highlighted Abu Dhabi’s role in promoting cultural exchange and strengthening ties between people from diverse backgrounds.
H.E. Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, expressed his excitement at being part of the championship, praising its organisation and family-friendly atmosphere. “The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship reflects the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s efforts to develop the sport and promote the jiu-jitsu culture in the community. The event’s exceptional organisation and warm atmosphere demonstrate the federation’s commitment to supporting athletes globally and contributing to position Abu Dhabi as the global capital of jiu-jitsu.”
Canadian Ahmad Sergieh, father of 10-year-old Mila Sergieh, who competed in the Girls / Infant / White / 60KG category, said: “This is our first time participating in the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, and we’ve been impressed by the organisation, the turnout, and the vibrant atmosphere. Jiu-jitsu is excellent for developing both mental and physical strength, which is why I encouraged Mila and her sister to practice the sport.”
Amna Abdullah Mattar Al Musafari, mother of competitors Mattar Alshamsi (Boys / Kids 3 / White / 38KG) and Mayed Alshamsi (Boys / Junior / White / 60KG), added: “We chose jiu-jitsu for our children because it is a great way to develop both mental and physical health. It requires a lot of skill, commitment, and instills many noble values in young athletes.”
The arena was buzzing with people who were enjoying the Fitness District, a space that combines entertainment and education, offering fans and families a comprehensive experience designed to encourage physical participation and skills development. The District provides a range of interactive activities, including virtual reality challenges and opportunities to try new sports, promoting teamwork and cooperation.
The Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival will continue tomorrow, Thursday, with competitions in the kids category, in addition to the Abu Dhabi World Para Jiu-Jitsu Championship.
