Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025 Set to Debut in Al Ain
The inaugural Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025 is set to take place from August 1 to 3, 2025, at ADNEC Centre Al Ain. Organised by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM) in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT) and under the banner of Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP), this international event marks a significant milestone for combat sports in the UAE.
Aimed at addressing the surging global demand for combat sports, especially grappling—one of the world’s fastest-growing disciplines—the championship will gather hundreds of male and female athletes from over 20 countries. Competitors of all skill levels, from youth and amateurs to masters and professionals, will participate in three days of intense matches, solidifying the Al Ain Region’s status as a premier host for world-class combat sports.
“As Abu Dhabi grows in prominence as a hub for major global sporting events, combat sports have emerged as an increasingly important pillar of our sport and entertainment vision for the emirate. Joining such IPs as Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, UFC Fight Nights, and the Jiu-Jitsu World Championships, we are proud to welcome the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship to our portfolio of leading events. We look forward to new audiences in Al Ain Region and across Abu Dhabi being introduced to this exciting and increasingly popular sport.” — Saeed AL Dhaheri
“We are proud to launch the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship, the first of its kind globally, in Al Ain Region, Abu Dhabi. This event underscores the UAE’s leadership in hosting elite combat sports, offering a platform for athletes worldwide to excel.” — Tareq Al Bahri
With the support of DCT, the championship intends to deliver unparalleled competition and foster a lasting legacy for grappling in the region. As a featured event of the AJP Tour, it will be conducted under the highest international standards, welcoming all nationalities across age divisions (U14, U16, U18, 18+, and 35+) in both amateur and professional categories. Victorious athletes will earn 2,000 ranking points and substantial cash prizes, enhancing the level of competition and attracting top-tier talent.
The schedule includes professional bouts up to the semi-finals on the opening day, youth and amateur contests on the second day, and culminates with third-place playoffs and finals.
The decision to host the event in the Al Ain Region highlights its growing importance in Abu Dhabi’s sporting landscape. This event embodies Abu Dhabi’s dedication to sports tourism and developing emerging talent, supported by leading academies and passionate fans from across the GCC and the wider MENA region.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
