UAE Jiu-Jitsu team claims 12 medals, including five golds, at Paris Grand Prix
Athletes showcase precision against varied international competition
PARIS/DUBAI – The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, concluded the 2026 Paris Open Grand Prix with an impressive haul of 12 medals, including five golds.
Competing in the French capital over two days, the team delivered a composed and consistent performance against a highly competitive international field. The results reflect sustained technical execution and strategic discipline across multiple weight categories.
The campaign began with a strong opening day, as the UAE secured two gold medals, one silver, and two bronze. Momentum carried into the second day, where the team added seven more medals, including three gold, two silver, and two bronze, highlighting depth across both men’s and women’s divisions.
Key winners
Abdulrahman Abdulhaq led the charge by claiming the UAE’s first gold medal in the 62kg category, followed by Faisal Alwahedi, who topped the 69kg division. Ahmad Khalifa Andeez earned silver in the same weight class, while Rashed Mohammed Alshehhi and Abdulrahman Sayedna Sayed Mohammed secured bronze medals in the 56kg category.
On day two, Maryam Adnan Ali triumphed in the 45kg division, while Balqees Abdulkarim added another gold in the 48kg category. Ammar Khalil Al Hosani completed the gold tally with victory in the 94kg division. Silver medals were won by Al Anoud Ibrahim Al Harbi in the 48kg category and Saeed Hamad Al Kaabi in the 85kg division. Additional bronze medals came from Abdullah Ahmed Al Kaabi in the 94kg division and Meera Hassan Al Hosani in the 52kg category.
Paris Grand Prix
The competition featured athletes from across the world, bringing a range of technical styles that led to closely contested bouts, often decided by narrow margins. The level of competition required precise execution and adaptability in each phase of the contests.
Mohammed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said the performance reflected the team’s commitment to its technical programme and its ability to perform under pressure. He noted that participation in such events is part of a long-term plan aimed at improving performance quality and preparing athletes to compete against diverse styles.
Abdulrahman Abdulhaq described his performance as strong from the opening bout, emphasising focus as a key factor, while Balqees Abdulkarim highlighted the importance of timely decision-making at elite level competition.