The UAE National Mixed Martial Arts Team is preparing to compete at the 2026 IMMAF Youth World Championships with a squad of 47 athletes. The championship will take place in Abu Dhabi from August 17 to 23, bringing together more than 1,100 athletes representing 55 countries.
The UAE’s campaign will begin on August 17 with 19 athletes competing in Youth D (10–11 years). 12 athletes will follow them in Youth C (12–13 years) on August 18. Nine athletes will compete in Youth B (14–15 years) on August 19 and 20, before seven athletes in Youth A (16–17 years) conclude the UAE’s participation from August 21 to 23.
H.E. Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said: “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.
“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.”
Saif Al Jneibi, a UAE National Team athlete competing in the Youth A category, said: “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.”
The UAE National Team’s participation combines the ambition to compete for medals to and to provide athletes across age groups with valuable international experience, thereby supporting the continued development of Emirati talent.
Abu Dhabi strengthens its position as a global hub for MMA
The championship has grown steadily since 2022, when it attracted 498 athletes from 41 countries. Participation increased to around 700 athletes from 45 countries in 2023 and more than 800 athletes from 45 countries in 2024. In 2025, the championship was held in the Al Ain Region and recorded its highest participation to date, with more than 1,000 athletes from 53 countries. This year, more than 1,100 athletes representing 55 countries are competing.
These numbers show the championship’s continued growth and its increasing global reach. They also reflect growing confidence in Abu Dhabi’s ability to host major international championships and provide a high-quality experience for athletes and participating delegations.
Hosting the championship also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a sports tourism destination, attracting athletes, coaches, delegations and fans to the emirate while showcasing its world-class sporting facilities, hospitality and cultural offering.
The championship also builds on Abu Dhabi’s strong track record in combat sports and its development of an integrated sporting environment that supports athletes, coaches, referees and technical officials. It reflects a long-term approach to developing the sport by identifying talent at an early age and supporting athletes through a clear and sustainable pathway.
