UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation sets 2026 roadmap with global ambitions
National team set for record international participation
DUBAI – The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation has outlined its strategic priorities for 2026, reaffirming its commitment to excellence and global leadership in the sport.
The direction was set during the Federation’s first Board of Directors meeting of the year, held in Abu Dhabi following the restructuring of the Board. The meeting focused on aligning ambitions, strengthening governance, and ensuring sustained growth for jiu-jitsu across the UAE.
The meeting was chaired by Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union, and Senior Vice President of the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation. Discussions centred on building on previous achievements while advancing the UAE’s position on the international jiu-jitsu stage through a clear and ambitious vision.
The meeting was attended by Mohamed Salem Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the Board, along with Board members Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Mansour Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Mohammed Hussein Al Marzooqi, and Humaid Mohammed Bakhit Al Ketbi. Senior Federation officials present included Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE and Asian Jiu-Jitsu Federations, Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Technical Director, and Abdullah Salem Al Zaabi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications.
Abdulmunem Alhashmi welcomed both current and newly appointed Board members, highlighting the importance of their role in strengthening the Federation’s objectives. He stressed the need for unified efforts to further develop jiu-jitsu in the UAE, in line with the strong support provided by the country’s leadership for sport and national talent development.
He also underlined the significance of maintaining a long-term vision that reinforces the UAE’s standing as a global hub for jiu-jitsu, while ensuring sustainable progress across competitive, organisational, and community levels.
Competitive calendar
During the meeting, the Board approved the Federation’s 2026 competition calendar, which features a series of high-profile local and international events. These include the 18th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, the Jiu-Jitsu President’s Cup, the Vice President’s Jiu-Jitsu Cup, the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, and the Mother of the Nation Jiu-Jitsu Championship.
In addition to elite competitions, the calendar incorporates targeted programmes aimed at increasing participation, encouraging community engagement, and promoting healthy lifestyles. These initiatives support the Federation’s broader sporting and social objectives while expanding the reach of jiu-jitsu across different age groups and segments of society.
International outlook
The Board also approved plans to host the JJIF World Youth Championship in Abu Dhabi, further strengthening the UAE’s reputation as a trusted host for major international sporting events. The decision reflects growing confidence in the country’s organisational capabilities, advanced sports infrastructure, and experience in delivering world-class championships.
On the international front, the national team is set for its largest level of participation to date. Approved competitions include the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Saudi Arabia, the Asian Games in Japan, and the Asian Beach Games in China. The schedule forms part of a structured preparation plan designed to enhance performance, build competitive readiness, and strengthen the UAE’s presence on the global jiu-jitsu stage.
Board members reaffirmed their commitment to a comprehensive development strategy focused on producing champions and identifying emerging talent. The approach aligns with the objectives of the Year of the Family and reinforces the role of jiu-jitsu in promoting community values, supporting youth development, and consolidating the UAE’s leadership in the sport.