The ninth edition of the UAE National MMA Championship is set to begin on July 11 at Shabab Al Ahli Club in Dubai, bringing together more than 300 athletes from clubs and academies across the UAE.
Organised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, the two-day championship will serve as an important platform to evaluate athletes ahead of the IMMAF Youth World Championships in August, where the UAE National Team will compete against the world’s best young MMA fighters.
The opening day will feature the Youth D (10 to 11 years), Youth C (12 to 13 years), and Youth B (14 to 15 years) categories, while Sunday’s programme will include the Youth A (16 to 17 years) and Adult (18 years and above) divisions.
The Federation said the championship is part of a structured competition pathway aimed at developing athletes across different age groups. Regular competitions allow fighters to gain experience, improve their skills, and help technical teams identify athletes ready for international competitions.
H.E. Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al-Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said the championship comes at a crucial stage ahead of the Youth World Championships.
He added that the event will help athletes test their preparation, build confidence, and gain valuable experience before competing on the global stage.
The participation of more than 300 athletes highlights the growing popularity of mixed martial arts in the UAE, with the Federation continuing to focus on youth development and creating pathways for future champions.
The championship also celebrates the important role of families in supporting young athletes, encouraging values such as discipline, confidence, and commitment while strengthening the UAE’s presence in international combat sports.
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