UAE Youth Shine in Jiu-Jitsu at Asian Games in Bahrain

Post by : Mara Rahim

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, finished its campaign at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain with great success. The team topped the overall medal standings, securing seven medals—two gold, two silver, and three bronze. The young Emirati athletes showed remarkable skill, determination, and teamwork, continuing the nation’s impressive rise in the global jiu-jitsu scene.

Adding to the UAE’s medal tally, Saif Alblooshi delivered an exceptional performance in the -48 kg division, earning a gold medal on Thursday. His strong technique and focused strategy helped him overcome tough opponents and secure a well-deserved victory. Alblooshi’s success reflected the quality of training and support that UAE athletes receive through national development programmes.

The UAE team’s achievements extended beyond a single category. Aysha Aljneibi captured a silver medal in the -63 kg class, showing agility and tactical awareness. Hneen Alkhoori (-57 kg), Abdulaziz Alakidi (-69 kg), and Ghala Al Hammadi (-48 kg) each won bronze medals, highlighting the depth of talent and the collective strength of the UAE’s youth team. These results underscored the effectiveness of the country’s investment in young athletes.

The opening day of the jiu-jitsu competition saw UAE athletes perform brilliantly. Obaid Al Ketbi won gold in the -56 kg division, while Salem Alqubaisi took silver in the -62 kg category. Their early victories gave the team confidence and set the stage for an outstanding overall performance. By the end of the competition, the UAE had outperformed major nations such as South Korea and Kazakhstan to claim the top spot.

The UAE’s victory brought pride not only to the athletes but also to the entire nation. The competition was attended by Fahad Mohammed Salem Kardous Al Ameri, UAE Ambassador to Bahrain, who congratulated the team personally. He praised their discipline, teamwork, and dedication, noting that their success reflects the UAE’s values of unity and perseverance. The ambassador also highlighted the importance of continued investment in youth sports as a symbol of the country’s vision for excellence.

Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, applauded the team’s achievements and credited the leadership’s support. He said the performance demonstrated the UAE’s long-term commitment to building future champions. “The impressive performances we’re seeing today highlight the rapid progress of jiu-jitsu in the UAE,” he stated. “Through strong training systems and youth-focused initiatives, we are creating a competitive environment that nurtures excellence.”

Gold medallist Saif Alblooshi described the championship as both challenging and rewarding. “Competing in a tournament of this level gives us valuable experience against different styles and schools of jiu-jitsu,” he said. Alblooshi thanked the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation for their trust and support, adding that the win motivates him to continue improving. His words reflected the sentiments of his teammates, who viewed the event as a valuable learning experience and an opportunity to grow as athletes.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing young talent through continuous training, international exposure, and community involvement. Supported by Mubadala and other national institutions, the Federation aims to build on this success and prepare for future regional and global tournaments. The achievements in Bahrain serve as proof of the UAE’s effective sports development model, which emphasizes discipline, leadership, and pride in representing the nation.

The UAE’s performance at the Asian Youth Games represents another milestone in its sporting journey. The team’s seven-medal haul—including two golds—cements the country’s position as a global force in jiu-jitsu. Beyond medals, this victory demonstrates the UAE’s success in developing a generation of confident, skilled, and determined young athletes. With continued support and investment, the UAE is well on its way to shaping a stronger future for jiu-jitsu both regionally and internationally.

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