The United Arab Emirates continues to reinforce its reputation as a powerhouse in the world of jiu-jitsu, with national champions securing an impressive haul of ten medals at the prestigious Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu Tour (ADGS) in London. Held under the patronage of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), the event drew elite grapplers from around the world to compete at the highest level—and the Emirati athletes did not disappoint.
Displaying grit, tactical prowess, and unwavering national pride, the UAE team clinched 4 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals across different weight divisions, cementing their place among the sport’s global elite and marking another milestone in the nation’s evolving martial arts journey.
An International Stage for UAE Talent
Hosted at the Copper Box Arena in London, this leg of the ADGS served as a critical battleground for top-ranking jiu-jitsu athletes vying for global recognition and ranking points. The UAE team, backed by years of dedicated investment in training, coaching, and youth development, stepped onto the mats with confidence and ambition.
The team’s performance not only exceeded expectations but also set the tone for upcoming tournaments. These victories are the result of the UAE’s long-standing commitment to jiu-jitsu development, starting from grassroots programs in schools all the way to elite national training camps.
Jiu-Jitsu : 4 Stellar Victories
Among the standout performances was the dominant display by UAE black belt champion Khalid Al Blooshi, who dazzled the crowd with his technical fluidity and mental sharpness in the 77 kg category. Al Blooshi controlled every match with calculated aggression, securing his gold medal with a decisive submission in the final round.
Joining him in the gold medal winners’ circle were teammates Zayed Al Kaabi (69 kg), Fatima Al Qubaisi (55 kg), and rising star Mariam Al Ketbi in the 62 kg division. Their triumphs were hard-earned against seasoned international opponents and highlighted the growing strength of UAE’s male and female jiu-jitsu representation.
Fatima Al Qubaisi, already a prominent name in women’s jiu-jitsu, emphasized after her win,
“This medal is not just for me—it represents our nation’s commitment to empowering athletes, especially women, in combat sports. We’re making history with every match.”
Silver Success: 3 Podium Finishes
Silver medals were secured by Mohammed Al Suwaidi (94 kg), Salama Al Habsi (49 kg), and seasoned competitor Abdullah Al Ketbi (62 kg). Their finals showcased resilience and strategy, with each match going the distance and pushing competitors to their limits.
While gold eluded them by a narrow margin, their performances earned praise for their sportsmanship and tenacity. For many of these athletes, silver is just another step toward gold in future ADGS events.
Bronze Resilience: 3 More to the Tally
Bronze medals came courtesy of Emirati warriors Ahmed Al Neyadi, Huda Al Shamsi, and teenager Omar Al Mazrouei. Each fought through fiercely contested brackets and showcased the depth of UAE’s talent pool—particularly in the junior and youth divisions.
Omar, one of the youngest medalists, captured attention for his composure under pressure. “It’s a dream to fight at this level and make my country proud. I’m just getting started,” he said with a wide smile after stepping off the podium.
UAE’s Jiu-Jitsu Journey: A Model of Success
The UAE’s dominance in the sport is no accident. Over the past decade, jiu-jitsu has been woven into the fabric of national development, thanks to the vision of the country’s leadership and the tireless work of the UAEJJF.
From introducing jiu-jitsu into the school curriculum to establishing world-class training facilities and hosting global events like the ADGS and Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (ADWPJJC), the UAE has become the sport’s global epicenter.
The federation’s “champions of tomorrow” strategy has created a robust talent pipeline, supported by experienced coaches from Brazil, the sport’s birthplace, and tailored programs for both boys and girls across all emirates.
London: A Crucial Stop on the Road to Abu Dhabi
London’s Grand Slam leg is considered a major checkpoint for athletes building momentum toward the season’s grand finale in Abu Dhabi later this year. It offers crucial ranking points and is a litmus test for form and preparation.
The UAE’s 10-medal performance in London not only boosts morale but strengthens the nation’s positioning in the overall rankings. It sends a strong signal that Emirati athletes are not just participants—they are contenders for the top titles.
Empowering Women Through Sport
One of the most compelling stories emerging from this tour is the growing presence and performance of Emirati women in jiu-jitsu. Athletes like Fatima Al Qubaisi and Huda Al Shamsi are not only breaking barriers but are also inspiring a new generation of young girls to pursue martial arts confidently.
The UAE’s commitment to gender equality in sports is reflected in equal training facilities, tournament opportunities, and national representation—ensuring that female athletes receive the recognition and support they deserve.
National Pride and International Prestige
Sheikh Mohammed bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, a patron of the sport and strong advocate for youth development, congratulated the team through a statement, saying,
“Our athletes have once again shown that excellence comes from discipline, preparation, and belief in oneself. Their performance at the ADGS London reflects the spirit of the UAE—resilient, ambitious, and world-class.”
The medal tally doesn’t just represent victories on the mat; it’s a statement of national pride and global presence. In a region where sports diplomacy is playing an increasing role in soft power, jiu-jitsu stands as one of the UAE’s shining success stories.
What’s Next for Team UAE?
With eyes now turning toward the upcoming ADGS legs in Miami and Tokyo, UAE’s coaching staff will be analyzing performances and refining techniques to maintain their edge. Training intensifies back at the federation’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, where new challengers await and champions prepare for their next test.
The journey continues, and with each tournament, the UAE reaffirms its place as a beacon of martial arts excellence. Whether it’s gold, silver, or bronze—the true victory lies in unity, preparation, and the courage to represent one’s country on the world stage.
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