Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship gets under way

When thousands of athletes, coaches, fans and families descend on the UAE capital for the 17th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, they are not simply attending a sporting event. They are stepping into a city and a nation that has redefined what it means to host an international championship.

Over the years, Abu Dhabi has evolved from a regional sports hub into a global destination that embodies excellence, hospitality and a deep-rooted passion for jiu-jitsu, reflecting the UAE’s broader vision to promote sports, youth development, and international cooperation.

Held under the patronage of Shaikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, this year’s championship will run from November 12-22. With the visionary support of the UAE’s leadership, the capital has developed an ecosystem where sport, culture and tourism converge seamlessly, aligning with the country’s ambition to inspire the next generation and enhance its standing as a global sports powerhouse.

World-class venue

The Mubadala Arena, home to the championship, stands tall as a world-class venue that reflects the nation’s investment in developing infrastructure capable of hosting elite competitions. Every element, from logistics and organisation to crowd engagement, mirrors the same precision, discipline, and respect that define the sport itself.

For the UAE’s jiu-jitsu community, the championship is a celebration of national pride and an opportunity to showcase the country’s sporting excellence to the world. Fans, families, and residents gather to cheer for local heroes and experience an atmosphere that unites people from every background.

Young athletes draw inspiration from their role models competing on home soil, while clubs and coaches across the UAE seize the chance to test their progress against the world’s best. The event also offers fans the opportunity to meet athletes, participate in interactive activities, and experience the spirit of Emirati hospitality.

Cultural and leisure attractions

Beyond the mats, visitors and residents can explore Abu Dhabi’s cultural and leisure attractions, with the venue located just minutes from leading hotels, landmarks, and entertainment destinations. The championship contributes significantly to the UAE’s sports tourism sector, drawing thousands of international visitors who fill hotels, dine at local restaurants, and experience the country’s vibrant culture. Extensive global media coverage continues to enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a forward-looking city that represents the UAE’s progressive vision and organisational excellence.

Abu Dhabi’s unique blend of heritage and modernity ensures that every visitor leaves with lasting memories. Many athletes and their families visit Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, and Louvre Abu Dhabi, or enjoy the Corniche, Saadiyat waterfront, and the desert dunes. The city’s family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it the ideal stage for a global gathering that celebrates both sport and culture.