The UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation announced that a national team of 47 athletes will represent the country at the upcoming championships. The team will be split across the various youth divisions, beginning with 19 competitors in the 10-11 years category on the opening day of competition. Twelve athletes are slated for the 12-13 years group the next day, followed by nine in the 14-15 years bracket and seven in the 16-17 years division to close out the event on August 23. The federation noted that the squad covers all four age categories and multiple weight divisions.
Event data from previous years shows consistent growth in the scale of the IMMAF Youth World Championships. The 2022 edition attracted 498 athletes from 41 countries while the 2025 tournament in Al Ain drew more than 1,000 participants from 53 nations according to federation records. This year’s competition is expected to surpass those marks with the record entry from 55 countries.
Board member H.E. Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation highlighted the significance of the squad size. “Having 47 athletes competing across all four age categories and various weight divisions shows the strength of our national talent and the success of our efforts to develop athletes from an early age,” Al Dhaheri said. “The championship is an important test of their readiness and allows them to compete against athletes with different styles and gain valuable experience at the highest level. We are confident that our athletes will compete with focus and discipline, use their skills effectively and deliver strong performances that reflect the continued development of mixed martial arts in the UAE,” he added.
Youth A competitor Saif Al Jneibi pointed to the focus required during matches. “Once the bout starts, it is just you, your opponent and the plan you have trained for. There is no time to hesitate. You have to read every move, stay calm and take your chance when it comes. Competing at a World Championship in Abu Dhabi gives us extra motivation. We will give everything we have to perform at our best, achieve strong results and raise the UAE flag on the podium,” Al Jneibi said. The athlete noted that home-soil competition adds further incentive for the UAE team.
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation has organised the youth worlds as a cornerstone event for amateur MMA development since the inaugural edition. This seventh staging in Abu Dhabi will utilise Mubadala Arena as the central venue for all bouts and related activities. Organisers listed the tournament as a key platform for identifying and advancing young talent in the sport.
The championships return to the capital this year after being held in Al Ain in 2025. Figures from previous championships show the steady rise in participating nations from 41 in 2022 to 55 for the current edition. Additional delegations and spectators are expected to benefit local sports tourism during the week-long program, according to event planners.
