Is the UAE on its way to becoming the international capital of jiu-jitsu?

When Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed Al Nahyan discovered martial arts while studying in the US, it set a wheel in motion. After returning to the UAE in 1997, he established the Abu Dhabi Combat Club, hiring top instructors from around the world.

Known as the godfather of the sport in the UAE, Sheikh Tahnoon became the first Emirati black belt, paving the way for future martial arts athletes. He was and continues to be instrumental in the development of the sport locally and globally, with HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan declaring jiu-jitsu to be the national sport.

Sporting success

An unarmed combat sport that encourages discipline and focus, jiu-jitsu is growing across the world. On local shores, Abu Dhabi is coming to be recognised as the new international capital of jiu-jitsu. The ultimate aim is to reach 100,000 players in the UAE by 2020.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), the official authority for the sport in the country, plays a leading role in achieving this goal. The season features 11 local championships, including an Al Ain kids’ tournament, as well as over 60 global championships.

Jiu-jitsu in the community

The foundation for any sport starts with youngsters, which is one of the reasons UAEJJF, together with Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC), implemented a jiu-jitsu schools programme in 2008. Currently over 130 schools and 76,000 students in grades six to 12 participate in ADEC’s programme.

INTERVIEW: Faisal Al Ketbi

As the third Emirati black belt jiu-jitsu fighter and world champion, Faisal Al Ketbi is an inspiration to many.

What are the benefits of jiu-jitsu?

Mostly it’s about teamwork because, yes this is an individual game, but you cannot be anyone without the help of your other competitors, training mates or coaches. Also discipline, respect and self-defence.

Why is ADEC’s school programme important?

If you want to build something, you have to start from ground zero. We see good results from young boys, and I see a lot of Emiratis that like to do jiu-jitsu even if they are not competing. That was the idea, to spread the game and to give a chance to everybody to try it.

To find out more, visit: uaejjf.org

WORDS Rachael Perrett