The sixth edition of the popular Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (ADWPJC) and the inaugural Children’s Cup begins from tomorrow. To mark the occasion, a wide range of fun activities have been organised for members of the public, who could walk away with some fantastic prizes at the free entry event.

Taking place for the first time at First Gulf Bank (FGB) Arena at Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi, members of the public will witness some enthralling jiu-jitsu matches as the world’s best fighters of both genders will be in attendance in the UAE capital from April 15 to 19.

Headlining UAE’s field will be brown belt champion Faisal Al Ketbi as well as Shamsa Hassan (blue belt), Yahya Al Hammadi, Hasan Al Rumaithi, Ali Salem Al Darai (all purple), and Emaan Mohammed (blue).

The tournament which kicks off with the world Children’s Cup and then the ADWPJC (April 17 to 19), is held under the patronage of HH General Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, with a prize money of Dh1.61 million.

As well as the matches, the event will also feature a host of contests and a range of new activities to entertain all, whether members of the public are dedicated fans or are completely new to the sport.

Children will be able to pose for pictures with Azzam, the official mascot of the championship as well as having their faces painted in the jiu-jitsu village. There will also be a chance to meet UFC star Urijah Faber, who will be attending the tournament.

There are also interactive stands, sponsor activities and a raffle draw were there will be daily electronic prizes to be won like iPhones and iPads. And on top of that, you could be driving away with a brand new Jaguar XF or Land Rover LR2 as two cars will be given away in the main draw on Saturday.

There is also an opportunity to win a dream vacation for two to the Maldives courtesy of Etihad holidays. The holiday package includes two return economy class tickets from Abu Dhabi and three nights’ accommodation at the Holiday Island Resort, Maldives.

A new addition this year is the online competition for best photo and video using the official Championship hashtag #WPJJC with cash prizes of Dh30,000. The best Instagram video of the tournament that has the most likes will be awarded Dh10,000. On Twitter there will be two lucky winners of Dh10,000 each for the best picture in the FGB arena with the most retweets.

Yasser Alqubaisi, general coordinator at UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: “It’s a family event that everyone can enjoy. Adults can bring their children to the competition and they will be able to see some great matches free of charge.”

The event begins with the Children’s Cup tomorrow and Wednesday from 10:00 to 15:00. The ADWPJC will commence on Thursday from 09:00 until 20:30, with the opening ceremony scheduled at 15:30. Friday’s action is from 09:00 to 18:30, while Saturday, the final day of the event is from 09:00 to 16:00.

What: World Children’s Cup and Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championships (free entry) 
When: From April 15 to 19
Where: First Gulf Bank Arena, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.uaejj.com