ABU DHABI: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation has announced the completion of preparations for “Jiu-Jitsu Month,” which includes two world championships starting from Saturday.
The 27th Jiu-Jitsu World Championship, which is being held under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council and chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Office, will kick off on Saturday, Oct. 29 and run until Nov. 8.
The 14th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, held under the patronage of Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, president of the UAE, will take place on Nov. 11-19.
“Hosting the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship and the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship is evidence of Abu Dhabi’s exceptional status as the global jiu-jitsu capital,” said Aref Al-Awani, general secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
“I want to applaud the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation for its efforts in promoting jiu-jitsu and expanding the number of practitioners by creating effective plans and strategies, which help to reaffirm the UAE’s reputation as a worldwide promoter of jiu-jitsu.”
More than 7,000 players from more than 100 different countries are expected to take to the mats at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena during the championships.
“In the weeks to come, Abu Dhabi will be the center of attention for the whole jiu-jitsu world as it stages two of the most prestigious championships on the international sporting calendar over a 20-day period,” said Mohamed Salem Al-Dhaheri, vice president of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation. “These world-class events confirm the city’s undeniable position as the global capital of jiu-jitsu, as well as its capacity to host major sporting events that dazzle the world.
“Abu Dhabi is ready to receive thousands of players from around the world with the necessary infrastructure in place, including hotels, training centers, transportation, a competition site, and a dedicated staff who will look after them from the time they arrive in Abu Dhabi until they depart the nation,” he said.
“Our UAE National Team heroes are determined to repeat the joy we lived through these past months including the World Games in Birmingham.”
Al-Dhaheri expressed his gratitude to the UAEJJF’s partners, sponsors and media representatives for their support while staging the most prestigious international competitions.
Joachim Thumfart, director general of the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation, said: “We are proud to host the championship in Abu Dhabi for a third consecutive year. With its top-notch infrastructure and sporting facilities, the city has been extremely welcoming and encouraging of international players. The championship’s previous two editions were a huge success, and there was an overwhelmingly positive response to the events,” he said.
Saeed Ali Obaid Al-Fazari, executive director of the Strategic Affairs Sector at DCT — Abu Dhabi, added: “Hosting the jiu-jitsu month marks a turning point in Abu Dhabi’s calendar of major international events and demonstrates the emirate’s potential for hosting important competitions. Abu Dhabi has become a preferred location for professionals and champions. We are proud to launch the new Fitness District at the Arena, which has a dedicated fitness area that will play host to a variety of activations.”
