The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, proudly sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, returned to the UAE after an extraordinary performance at the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China.
Their historic achievement saw the team clinch a remarkable total of 10 medals, comprising 4 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals. This impressive feat not only showcased their exceptional skills but also highlighted the nation’s deep pride and appreciation for their remarkable accomplishments.
UAE’s Dominance in Jiu-Jitsu Competitions
What made this achievement even more remarkable was the UAE’s complete domination of the jiu-jitsu competitions at the Asian Games. In fact, the UAE’s contribution accounted for half of all the jiu-jitsu medals awarded during the event. Among the standout performers, Khaled Al Shehhi, Faisal Al Ketbi, Shamma Al Kalbani, and Asma Al Hosani claimed the coveted gold medals, while their equally talented teammates Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Khalid Al Balushi, and Balqees Al Hashemi secured the silver medals. Mahdi Al Awlaki, Saeed Al Kubaisi, and Shamsa Al Ameri proudly brought home the bronze medals.
Warm Welcome and Future Goals
The heroic return of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team to Dubai International Airport was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of distinguished figures in the sporting community.
Among those who welcomed the team were His Excellency Youssef Abdullah Al-Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; His Excellency Faris Al-Mutawa, Secretary-General of the National Olympic Committee; and His Excellency Nasser Al-Tamimi, Secretary-General of the UAE Judo Federation and Treasurer of the International Judo Federation/IJF. This warm reception was a testament to the nation’s unwavering support for its athletes and their outstanding achievements.
The delegation representing the jiu-jitsu team included key figures such as His Excellency Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Deputy Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Head of the Delegation; Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE and Asian Federations; Tareq Al Bahri, Director of Support Services; and Mohamed Al Marzooqi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation. Alongside them were Mubarak Al Menhali, Director of the Federation’s Technical Department, National Team Head Coach Ramon Lemos, and members of the technical staff, as well as the 16 male and female players who proudly represented the nation.
In light of this remarkable accomplishment, Al Dhaheri expressed heartfelt gratitude to the leadership and people of the UAE for their unwavering support of Jiu-Jitsu. He recognized this support as a vital force behind the historic success and commended the UAEJJF and its dedicated team for turning the leadership’s vision of global jiu-jitsu excellence into a resounding reality.
Asian Games Japan 2026
Al Dhaheri emphasized that the triumphant return of the champions embodies the value of the UAE’s accomplishments on the global stage. He announced plans to prepare for the next Asian Games in Japan in 2026, with the ongoing goal of maintaining their top-ranking position and setting new benchmarks in the world of sports.
Mubarak Al-Menhali shared that the groundwork for this remarkable achievement began in 2019 with clear objectives to surpass the accomplishments of Jakarta in 2018. He acknowledged that major competitions often hinge on minute details and expressed confidence in the young champions, who have gained invaluable experience and remain poised to excel further in the sport.
Mohammed Hussein Al Marzouqi shed light on the tireless effort and sacrifices made by the team throughout the season as they actively participated in various championships worldwide. He emphasized that the team embodies the spirit of sacrifice and dedication, serving as exemplary role models for representing and honoring the country. Through their remarkable feats, they have presented a priceless gift to the nation and have set high standards for future achievements in the world of Jiu-Jitsu.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
