UAE Wins Seven Medals at Asian Youth Games in Bahrain

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, delivered an outstanding performance at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, ending its campaign at the top of the medal table. The Emirati athletes showcased exceptional skill, strength, and determination throughout the competition, winning a total of seven medals—two gold, two silver, and three bronze.

On Thursday, Saif Alblooshi added another gold to the UAE’s tally after a dominant showing in the -48 kg division. His performance reflected strong technical skills and mental focus, which allowed him to overcome tough opponents and secure victory. Alblooshi’s achievement marks another proud moment for the UAE’s growing reputation in international jiu-jitsu events.

The UAE team’s success extended across multiple categories. Aysha Aljneibi earned a silver medal in the -63 kg category, displaying agility and tactical excellence throughout her matches. Hneen Alkhoori (-57 kg), Abdulaziz Alakidi (-69 kg), and Ghala Al Hammadi (-48 kg) each secured bronze medals, showing the depth of talent within the UAE’s youth team.

On the opening day of the jiu-jitsu competition, Obaid Al Ketbi won gold in the -56 kg division, while Salem Alqubaisi claimed silver in the -62 kg category. Their victories set the stage for a strong overall campaign by the UAE team, which concluded at the top of the medal standings ahead of South Korea and Kazakhstan.

By the conclusion of the event, the UAE stood proudly as the overall leader in the jiu-jitsu competition, surpassing several strong nations. The team’s total of seven medals highlighted the country’s growing dominance in the sport, particularly in youth divisions. The results reaffirmed the UAE’s position as a regional and global powerhouse in jiu-jitsu, a sport that has become a key part of the nation’s sporting identity.

The competition was attended by Fahad Mohammed Salem Kardous Al Ameri, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, who personally congratulated the athletes and the coaching staff. He expressed his pride in their achievements, noting that their dedication and performance reflect the spirit of national pride and unity that defines Emirati athletes.

The ambassador praised the team’s discipline, teamwork, and determination, emphasising that such accomplishments mirror the UAE’s continuous investment in youth development and sports excellence.

Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the team’s remarkable performance and highlighted the leadership’s continued support for Emirati athletes. He stated that the success of the UAE team demonstrates the vision of the nation’s leadership and the effective programmes implemented by jiu-jitsu academies and clubs.

“The impressive performances we’re seeing today highlight the rapid progress of jiu-jitsu in the UAE,” Al Menhali said. “Through strong training systems and youth-focused initiatives, we are creating a competitive environment that nurtures champions capable of achieving excellence on the global stage.”

Gold medallist Saif Alblooshi described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. “Competing in a championship of this size gives us valuable experience against different styles and schools of jiu-jitsu,” he said. “The atmosphere was highly competitive and full of energy. I’m grateful to the Federation for their trust in us, and today’s result motivates me to keep improving and representing the UAE with pride.”

His comments echoed the sentiment of his teammates, who viewed their participation as a chance to learn, grow, and test their skills against some of Asia’s best young athletes.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation reaffirmed its commitment to developing future champions through training, international exposure, and community engagement. With continued support from Mubadala and national institutions, the UAE aims to build on its achievements and further strengthen its presence in upcoming regional and global tournaments.

The performance in Bahrain stands as a testament to the UAE’s successful sports development model, where young athletes are trained with discipline, provided with world-class facilities, and encouraged to represent their nation with pride and honour.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team’s success at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain marks another proud milestone in the country’s sporting journey. With seven medals, including two golds, the team has not only proven its competitive strength but also highlighted the UAE’s leadership in promoting martial arts excellence across the Arab world and beyond.

As the nation celebrates this victory, the focus now turns to future competitions—where these young champions will continue to carry the UAE flag high, embodying the spirit of hard work, resilience, and unity.