UAE National Team Raises Medal Count to 21 on Final Day of Asian Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship

Bangkok, February 16, 2025: The UAE National Team wrapped up its participation in the Asian Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship, bringing the country’s total medal count to 21. The Under-18 team clinched 11 medals on the final day, including two gold, three silver, and six bronze.

The competition was intense, with high levels of skill and determination on display. The Emirati athletes proved their worth against some of the continent’s top competitors, demonstrating remarkable spirit and technical excellence and adding another achievement to the UAE’s growing legacy in the sport.

Obaid Al Ketbi won gold in the 52 kg weight category, and Salem Alqubaisi took the gold in the 56 kg weight category. Silver medals were secured by Fatima Al Katheeri (44 kg), Ghala Al Hammadi (48 kg), and Ahmed Al Shamsi (48 kg). Bronze medals went to Haira Al Dhaheri (40 kg), Haneen Alkhoori (57 kg), Zainab Al Mansoori (70 kg), Aisha Aljneibi (63 kg), Harib Alhammadi (62 kg), and Zayed Alhosani (85 kg).

Mubarak Al Menhali, Technical Director at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: “We focused a lot on the technical side during preparations for the Asian Championships and kept evaluating our athletes’ readiness. Their strong performance at the championship shows that our efforts paid off. These results are the result of the leadership’s support, which has given our players everything they need to compete at the highest level. 

“The Federation’s continuous backing, through training camps and preparatory tournaments, has been instrumental in boosting the players’ confidence and competitive edge. We take pride in these achievements and remain committed to reaching even greater heights in future competitions.”

Obaid Al Ketbi, who claimed gold in the 52kg category, said: “This moment means a great deal to me, as it represents years of hard work and determination to achieve my dream. Every fight has been a reflection of my passion for Jiu-Jitsu and my desire to represent my country in the best way possible. Today’s gold medal is just another step in my journey toward reaching the top globally.” Earlier in the event, the Under-16 team secured 10 medals, including three gold, one silver, and six bronze, on the opening day of the Asian youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship. Meanwhile, the UAE National Team wrapped up the 2025 Asian Jiu-Jitsu Cup (U14) with 11 medals, including two gold, three silver, and six bronze.