Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship Unveils AED3 Million Prize Pool for 17th Edition
The Organising Committee of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship has announced a total prize money of AED3 million for its highly anticipated 17th edition, set to take place at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi from 12th to 22nd November 2025. The event will be held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
The substantial prize pool underlines the championship’s reputation as the largest event on the global jiu-jitsu calendar, providing a significant incentive for athletes from around the world. This year’s edition is expected to witness unprecedented registration levels, with over 10,000 athletes anticipated, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s status as the world capital of jiu-jitsu.
Since its launch in 2009—when it hosted around 500 athletes from 50 countries—the championship has experienced impressive growth in participation. The 16th edition, held last year, attracted more than 8,000 athletes representing all continents, a testament to its growing international stature.
The 17th edition promises fans an 11-day comprehensive jiu-jitsu experience, beginning on 12th November with amateur competitions. The schedule will feature kids’ categories from 13th to 15th November, with Para-Jiu-Jitsu matches on 13th November. Youth competitions are set for 16th and 17th November, followed by the Masters contests on 18th and 19th November, all concluding with the professional competitions from 20th to 22nd November.
Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chairman of the Championship Organising Committee, said, “Announcing AED3 million in prize money for the 17th edition demonstrates our commitment to strengthening the championship’s status as a global platform while giving athletes an added motivation to deliver top-level performances worthy of the event. We are preparing for an extraordinary edition that meets the highest organisational standards, thanks to the unlimited support of our wise leadership. Over 11 days of competition, we expect to welcome more than 10,000 athletes in a truly unprecedented event that unites cultures under the values of sport.”
The Organising Committee continues its intensive preparations, collaborating with key parties such as Abu Dhabi Police, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and the Ministry of Interior. The focus remains on delivering an exceptional experience—from smooth athlete arrivals and facilitation of procedures to ensuring infrastructure readiness. Every detail is being attended to, including the full preparation of volunteer, medical, and security teams.
With a record number of participants on the horizon, efforts are underway to accommodate this influx and deliver a championship that reflects Abu Dhabi’s status as a global sporting capital and generates significant local and international impact.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
