The UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation has marked a range of achievements in 2024, with UAE National Teams exhibiting exceptional performance and winning 178 medals internationally, while key local and international championships were hosted in the country.

Among the highlights were the hosting of the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship, the 5th IMMAF Youth World Championships, and organising the 16th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, which saw record participation and unprecedented global engagement. The launch of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, alongside other continental and international events, further cemented the UAE’s position as a global hub for jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation reported that Emirati athletes won 178 medals across various continental and international championships, reflecting the continued development of jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts in the UAE. Abu Dhabi also welcomed elite global talent by hosting numerous world-class events, reinforcing its standing as a leading destination for sports enthusiasts.

These accomplishments underline the UAE’s leadership in sports, driven by the vision of the nation’s wise leadership, which serves as the cornerstone in building generations of champions, securing the UAE’s presence on global podiums, and inspiring future athletes to pursue future success.

His Excellency Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said: “These achievements are the result of the unlimited support of 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 Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

“The achievements of 2024 are a testament to our leadership’s commitment to providing an environment that fosters growth and development while equipping athletes with the resources they need to excel. This support has paved the way for a new generation of champions who proudly raise the UAE flag on global podiums. We are immensely proud of this progress and look forward to even greater success in the future.

“The year 2024 marks a milestone in the federation’s journey. We successfully organised and hosted major global and continental championships that drew thousands of athletes from across the world, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s unmatched status as the capital of jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts. These events also strengthened international partnerships and reaffirmed the UAE’s leadership in hosting major sporting events.”

During 2024, the Federation organised and hosted more than 20 championships, including the 16th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship, the 5th IMMAF Youth World Championships, and the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, which featured five rounds. Other notable events included the Jiu-Jitsu President's Cup, the Vice President's Jiu-Jitsu Cup, and the Mother of The Nation Jiu-Jitsu Cup.

The Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) rounds, a critical pathway for professionals globally, contributed to qualifications for the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Award. The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu Championship also drew leading athletes from more than 140 countries, with participation increasing by 20% compared to previous years. These events showcased intense competition, highlighted emerging talent, and distributed cash prizes exceeding six million dirhams, inspiring athletes to deliver outstanding performances.

The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, launched in 2024, was a standout event. Featuring five rounds across the UAE, it included competitions in three “Gi” and two “no-Gi” categories, catering to various age groups.

The 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship attracted more than 9,000 participants from 137 countries, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination for jiu-jitsu.

Additionally, the Federation organised five rounds of the Youth MMA Championship, an important addition to its 2024 calendar. The growing interest in mixed martial arts, especially among youth, was reflected in their strong participation. The fifth IMMAF Youth World Championships, held at Mubadala Arena, drew over 800 male and female athletes from 47 countries, with Emirati talent excelling in various categories.

UAE athletes achieved impressive performances across various championships, winning 23 medals in the Gulf Youth Games, 18 in the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship (adult category), and 41 in youth categories. They also secured 15 medals at the Grand Prix Thailand Open, 18 in the World Jiu-Jitsu Cup in Croatia, 24 in the JJAU Regional Championship West Asia in Jordan, nine in the adult category at the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship in Greece, and 42 across youth categories at the same event.

In recognition of his contribution to the sport’s global growth, His Excellency Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi was reappointed as Senior Vice President of the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation for another four-year term during the organisation’s annual conference in Greece.