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ABU DHABI: A record 10,000 male and female athletes from over 130 countries will take part in the 17th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship from Nov. 12 to 22 at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City.

The event is being held under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi and chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

The details of the 17th edition were revealed during a press conference held on Thursday evening at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Abu Dhabi.

Mohamed Salem Al-Dhaheri, vice chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and chairman of the organizing committee, praised the nation’s athletes for their performances, including at the recent Jiu-Jitsu World Championship in Thailand.

“We also thank the families of the athletes for their constant support, as they are true partners in every success. We also value the efforts of the coaches, administrators, and the federation team who work together with dedication and team spirit.”

Aref Hamad Al-Awani, general secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said the championship “reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to be a global sports hub and a home for jiu-jitsu champions.

“The event has become a model of excellence, thanks to our leadership’s support. We are proud to host a sport that promotes discipline, respect, and excellence, and continues to shape future champions.”

Saeed Ali Obaid Al-Fazari, executive director, strategy affairs sector at the Department of Culture and Tourism – DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi has proven its ability to host major international sporting and cultural events with world-class facilities and exceptional hospitality.”

Fahad Ali Al-Shamsi, secretary-general of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said females make up 32 percent of the participants, and that 60 percent are from outside the UAE.

The competition begins on Nov. 12 with the amateur category. The Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival, featuring events for children, will take place from Nov. 13 to 15, alongside the Para Jiu-Jitsu competitions on Nov. 13.

The youth categories will be held on Nov. 16 and 17, followed by the master’s category on Nov. 18 and 19. The championship ends with the professional competitions from Nov. 20 to 22.