Abu Dhabi to host 2026 Jiu-Jitsu World Championship

Abu Dhabi is set to host the 2026 Jiu-Jitsu World Championship from August 1 to 9 at the Mubadala Arena, under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. The championship, organized by the Ju-Jitsu International Federation (JJIF) and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), will bring together more than 1,500 athletes from across the globe.

“

The generous patronage of Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the 2026 Ju-Jitsu World Championship reflects the unwavering support the UAE leadership continues to provide to sport.

This significant event underscores the UAE's position as a global leader in jiu-jitsu and a premier destination for hosting world-class international sporting events. The championship will feature masters, adult, and youth categories, including under-14s, under-16s, under-18s, and under-21s, demonstrating Abu Dhabi's dedication to nurturing talent at all stages of development. The event solidifies the emirate's status as a leading martial arts hub and the international home of jiu-jitsu.

The patronage by Sheikh Khaled signifies the UAE leadership's ongoing commitment to promoting sports as a catalyst for community development and enhancing quality of life. Jiu-jitsu, in particular, has become the national sport of the UAE, reflecting its deep integration into the country's sporting culture. Over the years, the UAE has established itself as a global benchmark for developing the sport, cultivating talent, producing champions, and hosting major international competitions.

“

It also highlights the position jiu-jitsu has earned within the country’s sporting landscape as one of the UAE’s greatest sporting success stories.

This long-term vision has cemented Abu Dhabi's reputation as the world capital of jiu-jitsu. Supported by state-of-the-art facilities, extensive organizational experience, and a robust sporting ecosystem, the UAE continues to play a pivotal role in the global advancement of jiu-jitsu. The UAEJJF's strategic focus on developing local talent, identifying future champions, and providing athletes with top-tier training and support aims to sustain the nation's international success while fostering the sport's growth both domestically and globally.

“

This patronage adds further prestige and momentum to the championship and reflects the international sporting community’s confidence in the UAE’s ability to host major events.