The Emirates News Agency reported that the UAE judo team secured eight medals across various categories on the opening day of the Arab Judo Championship held in Amman. Athletes from the national squad competed against teams from multiple Arab nations in junior cadet and youth divisions. The strong start places the UAE among the leading performers as the multi-day event continues.
A report from the Emirates News Agency detailed that the medals comprised a combination of gold silver and bronze results in different weight classes. UAE coaches on site oversaw a series of bouts that tested the athletes against regional rivals. The championship organized under the Arab Judo Union draws competitors from across the Middle East and North Africa.
UAE national team athlete Mohammed Yazbek claimed gold in the under-73kg category at the Paris Grand Slam in February 2026 a Big News Network report stated. That international success reflected ongoing development within the UAE judo program supported by the national federation. Recent investments have included advanced training facilities and participation in global competitions to build competitive depth.
The Arab Judo Championship has previously taken place in Jordan with the 2019 edition seeing Qatar secure two gold medals on a single day according to the Qatar Olympic Committee. Saudi Arabia’s judo athletes earned titles in junior cadet and youth categories at the 2025 edition a Saudi Judo Federation summary showed. Such regional tournaments provide critical experience for athletes aiming toward continental and Olympic qualification pathways.
The UAE Judo Federation has organized domestic events including the Emirates Open Judo Championship to identify and nurture talent an Instagram post from a participating school noted. Preparation for the current Arab Championship included targeted camps that focused on technique and endurance. Federation leaders have tracked progress throughout the season to refine strategies for this and future contests.
Jordanian organizers coordinated the 2026 championship with strict adherence to international judo standards and safety protocols. Participating delegations including the UAE team arrived in Amman ahead of the opening ceremonies. Additional days of competition will feature individual and team events as the full medal table takes shape.
