Abu dhabi: The Organising Committee of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship has announced prize money totalling AED3 million for the 17th edition of the championship, which will be held at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi from 12th to 22nd November 2025. The event will run under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
According to Emirates News Agency, the prize pool reflects the status of the championship as the largest event on the global jiu-jitsu calendar and provides an added incentive for athletes worldwide. This year’s edition is expected to record unprecedented registration levels, with more than 10,000 athletes, further cementing Abu Dhabi’s position as the world capital of jiu-jitsu.
The championship was first launched in 2009 with around 500 athletes from 50 countries and has since seen continuous growth in participation, reaching last year’s 16th edition, which attracted over 8,000 athletes from across all continents. The 17th edition promises fans an 11-day comprehensive jiu-jitsu experience. It begins on 12th November with amateur competitions, followed by the kids’ categories from 13th to 15th November, with Para-Jiu-Jitsu matches scheduled for 13th November. Youth competitions take place on 16th and 17th November, followed by Masters on 18th and 19th November, before culminating with the professional competitions from 20th to 22nd November at Mubadala Arena.
Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chairman of the Championship Organising Committee, stated that announcing AED3 million in prize money for the 17th edition demonstrates their commitment to strengthening the championship’s status as a global platform while giving athletes added motivation to deliver top-level performances. He emphasized the extraordinary preparation for this edition, made possible by the support of the leadership, and expressed expectations of welcoming more than 10,000 athletes over the 11-day event.
The Organising Committee is intensively preparing to ensure the success of this year’s championship, working closely with partners and supporters, including Abu Dhabi Police, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and the Ministry of Interior, among others. Efforts are focused on delivering the best possible experience, from athlete arrivals and facilitation of procedures to infrastructure readiness and attention to every detail, ensuring volunteer, medical, and security teams are fully prepared. With a record number of participants expected this year, the Committee is intensifying its efforts to accommodate this surge and deliver an unparalleled championship that matches Abu Dhabi’s status as a global sporting capital and generates positive impact locally and internationally.