This championship, now a prominent fixture in the UAE's sports calendar, has drawn national attention, with top-tier jiu-jitsu athletes and clubs from across the country competing. The championship's growing popularity is part of the UAE’s larger initiative to promote jiu-jitsu as a sport that embodies both physical fitness and discipline. Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club’s performance in the final round solidified its place as a dominant force in the sport within the UAE, with athletes displaying exceptional technique, discipline, and tenacity.
The final day of the championship brought together a diverse group of competitors, representing various clubs from across the Emirates. Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club stood out, showcasing both seasoned professionals and emerging talent. The team’s collective effort earned them multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals, catapulting them to the top of the championship’s overall standings.
One of the standout performances came from Ahmed Al-Qubaisi, a rising star from Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club. Al-Qubaisi, competing in the under-77kg category, displayed a masterful blend of technique and strength, securing gold after a series of tightly contested matches. His final bout was especially gripping, with spectators on the edge of their seats as he overcame his opponent in the closing minutes, earning a submission victory.
Another notable performance came from Fatima Al-Ashari, one of the top female athletes in the competition. Representing Al Ain, Al-Ashari dominated the under-70kg division, earning her gold medal with a combination of skill and strategy. Her technical prowess on the mat was evident, as she successfully outmaneuvered her opponents to secure a top podium finish.
The success of these athletes, among others from Al Ain, reflects the club’s robust training programs, which have been central to its success in national competitions. The club's coaching staff, led by experienced professionals with deep roots in jiu-jitsu, has placed a strong emphasis on both technical refinement and mental preparation. This dual focus has been credited with producing consistent results for Al Ain athletes on the national stage.
Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club also performed admirably during the championship. Despite falling short of the top spot, the club secured a significant number of medals across various weight divisions, showcasing the depth of talent within its ranks. One of the club’s standout athletes, Omar Al-Balushi, clinched a silver medal in the under-85kg category, narrowly missing out on gold after a highly competitive final.
The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship has been pivotal in promoting jiu-jitsu across the Emirates, attracting athletes of all ages and skill levels. The competition, divided into multiple rounds, has given jiu-jitsu practitioners ample opportunities to test their skills in different formats, helping to raise the overall level of the sport in the country. The championship is also part of the UAE’s larger efforts to position itself as a global hub for jiu-jitsu, hosting numerous international events and nurturing local talent through national tournaments.
The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation has been a driving force behind these efforts, providing support and resources to athletes and clubs throughout the country. Under the Federation’s leadership, the sport has seen exponential growth, with jiu-jitsu being incorporated into the country’s school curriculum, and Emirati athletes achieving international success. The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship is just one of many initiatives aimed at bolstering the country’s standing in the global jiu-jitsu community.
Athletes who performed well during the championship are expected to represent the UAE in various upcoming international events. These include the prestigious Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, which draws competitors from around the world. Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club, with its top-tier athletes, will be one of the favorites to bring home medals in those international competitions.
The Zayed Sports Complex, where the final round took place, has become a central venue for jiu-jitsu events in the UAE, regularly hosting both local and international tournaments. The venue is equipped with world-class facilities, enabling athletes to compete at the highest level. Spectators at the event, including family members, coaches, and fans, were treated to a day of high-octane matches, with many lauding the organization of the event.
This year’s edition of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship saw an increased number of participants compared to previous years, a testament to the growing interest in the sport. The UAE's commitment to fostering talent at all levels—from youth to professional athletes—has been instrumental in the sport's rise.