The UAE Women’s Jiu-Jitsu National Team secured two gold medals, one silver and three bronze on Saturday at the 10th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship held at Almaty Arena in Kazakhstan, according to the Emirates News Agency. This performance followed the men’s team’s collection of nine medals the previous day, bringing the overall tally to 15. Asma Al-Hosani claimed gold in the under-52 kilogram category while Shamma Al-Kalbani triumphed in the under-63kg division, with Alaonod Alharbi earning silver in the under-48kg class. Hamda Alshkeili, Balqees Abdullah and Hessa Al-Shamsi completed the women’s haul with bronze medals in the under-45kg, under-48kg and under-52kg divisions respectively.
Mubarak Saleh Al-Menhali, technical director of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, stated that the results reflect the prominent role played by Emirati women in the sporting domain. He pointed to the support provided by the UAE leadership in empowering women and creating a structured development pathway that has elevated national performance at continental events. The federation, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, has used such backing to prepare teams capable of competing against the continent’s best.
Coach Marina Ribeiro highlighted how the athletes were well prepared and executed their tactics under pressure, delivering consistent results across several weight classes at the Kazakhstan championship. Her assessment follows months of targeted training that aligned with the federation’s talent identification program. Ribeiro’s guidance contributed directly to the six medals secured by the women’s squad on the second day of competition.
Shamma Al-Kalbani expressed pride in her gold medal victory and her adherence to the established game plan throughout the bouts. The athlete dedicated her success to the UAE and all those who supported the national team during preparation. Her win in the under-63kg category exemplified the depth developed within the women’s program.
The UAE squads’ combined 15-medal haul at the 10th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship builds on the federation’s history of strong performances at similar regional gatherings, where consistent podium finishes have become expected. Data from prior editions of the championship show growing participation from across Asia, providing a competitive benchmark that the Emirati athletes have met with notable success. This outcome reinforces the systematic approach taken toward athlete development and international exposure.
