UAE jiu-jitsu team wins 7 medals in Thailand

November 08, 2025 / 10:27 PM

Sharjah 24: The UAE jiu-jitsu national team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, began its participation in the 2025 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship (U16, U18, U21) in Bangkok, Thailand, with an impressive seven medals on the opening day — two gold, two silver, and three bronze in the boys’ under-16 category. The championship runs from November 8 to 14.

Strong start for the UAE Team

Ali Alnajar and Hazza Alkaabi secured gold in the 52kg and 56kg divisions, while Rakan Alyammahi and Ghanem Alali earned silver in the 44kg and 52kg categories. Mohammed Juma Aldarmaki, Khalfan Alqubaisi, and Fahad Saoud Aldhaheri claimed bronze in the 40kg, 56kg, and 62kg divisions, marking a powerful start for the UAE contingent.

A major global event

The World Jiu-Jitsu Championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments organized by the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation (JJIF). It brings together elite national teams from around the world, competing in three main age divisions — under 16, under 18, and under 21.

UAE Federation commends the team’s performance

Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the young athletes for their exceptional performances, calling it a promising start for the national team.

He stated, “Today’s results spotlight a new generation of athletes that embodies our vision of building a strong base of champions capable of competing at the highest levels. These achievements reflect the effectiveness of our training programmes focused on skill and mental discipline.”

Al Menhali added that the results highlight the success of the Federation’s investment in youth divisions, which ensures the continued growth and global competitiveness of UAE jiu-jitsu.

Champions share their pride

Ali Alnajar, gold medallist in the 52kg category, said: “Winning gold at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship has always been a dream for me. I’m proud to have raised the UAE flag on the global stage. The matches were tough, but the support of our coaches and the confidence from training made all the difference. I dedicate this medal to our leadership and the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation. I’ll keep working hard to win more titles in the future.”

Hazza Al kaabi, who claimed gold in the 56kg division, added: “The competition was strong from the first match, but our focus and team spirit pushed us to give our best. Standing on the podium and hearing the UAE national anthem was an unforgettable moment.”

Upcoming competitions

The championship continues on Sunday, November 9, with the girls’ under-16 category, where the UAE national team aims to build on its strong start and add more medals to its growing tally.