Abu Dhabi – The jiu-jitsu competitions at the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 concluded on Friday at the Mubadala Arena, bringing together seasoned athletes from around the world for a final day defined by experience, technical precision, and international participation.
The closing sessions featured purple, brown, and black belt divisions, showcasing high-level match management and composure. Several bouts were decided by narrow points margins, underlining the depth of talent and technical standard present at the event.
The championship further reinforced Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global hub for jiu-jitsu and major sporting events.
Dignitaries Attend Final Day of Competition
Friday’s action was attended by several prominent figures in the sport, including:
- H.E. Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union, and Senior Vice President of the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation
- Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union
- Abdulla Salem Al Zaabi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation
Presidents and representatives of national federations affiliated with the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union were also present, reflecting the event’s strong regional and international engagement.
Minister of State for Youth Affairs Competes
H.E. Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs, took part in the jiu-jitsu competitions, underscoring leadership support for sport and active living.
He said:
“I am happy to take part in the jiu-jitsu competitions at the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026. I hope the positive energy and strong community spirit we see here continue throughout the year. A few days ago, I competed in another sport, and today I am taking part in my second passion, jiu-jitsu. It sends a message that sport can remain part of our lives, no matter our interests or responsibilities.
The Open Masters Games are not linked to a certain age group. They show that people can practise sport at every stage of life. When individuals balance effort and rest and understand their own abilities, they can continue to perform and stay active. Taking part in sport in this way is a real investment in health and quality of life. We want a community that sees sport as a long-term lifestyle, not something temporary linked to age or circumstances.”
Strong Technical Performances Mark Final Day
The concluding competitions were characterized by calm execution and disciplined strategy. Advanced belt competitors demonstrated control and tactical awareness in tightly contested matches, where experience proved as decisive as physical conditioning.
The Masters divisions, in particular, highlighted the importance of longevity in sport and the ability of athletes to continue competing at a high level across different stages of life.
Federation Highlights Global Growth of Jiu-Jitsu
Abdulla Salem Al Zaabi emphasized the importance of coordination and professional organization in delivering a successful championship.
He said:
“Jiu-jitsu today brings people from different cultures together. The Masters division adds real value because it shows long-term commitment to the sport and gives more members of the community the chance to compete.
At the Federation, we make sure every participation helps grow the sport and strengthen its values of respect and discipline. Including jiu-jitsu in the Open Masters Games highlights its global position and shows that Abu Dhabi continues to support initiatives that expand participation and improve competition standards.”
Athletes Reflect on Lifelong Journey in Sport
World champion Faisal Al Ketbi also shared his thoughts on competing at the Games:
“Competing at the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 feels different. It is not just about winning; it is about a long journey with the sport. Seeing athletes of different ages on the mat reminds you that jiu-jitsu can stay part of your life as you grow older. The atmosphere is inspiring and sends a clear message to young athletes that sport is a lifelong journey.”
With strong international participation and high technical standards on display, the jiu-jitsu competitions at the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 further cemented the emirate’s status as a leading global destination for combat sports and community-driven athletic initiatives.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, and Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and is also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer. He’s also the main photographer for the 4CornersMafia Car Club.
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