Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship

The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship got underway in Dubai on Saturday, with Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club taking the opening-day lead following the first round of No Gi competition at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex.

The championship featured bouts across the U-12, U-14 and U-16 categories, drawing strong participation from clubs across the UAE. Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club finished the day in second place, while Palms Sports — Team 777 secured third in the standings at the end of Day 1 of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

Mohamed Hussain Al-Marzooqi, a board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said the inclusion of the No Gi format reflects the federation’s commitment to expanding competitive opportunities and strengthening athletes’ technical abilities. He emphasized that investing in youth categories remains vital to preparing athletes for regional and international competitions.

“No Gi competitions offer a different challenge in jiu-jitsu, focusing on speed, flexibility and tactical awareness,” Al-Marzooqi said, adding that the format helps athletes adapt to various competitive styles and develop as well-rounded competitors.

The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship continues on Sunday with contests in the U-18, Adults and Masters divisions, with wide participation expected from clubs and academies across the country.