UFC GYM is on a mission to build the biggest Jiu-Jitsu community in the world and is rolling out a new training programme at its gyms in Dubai, with further launches expected in Kuwait and Lebanon.

A special event was held at the Business Bay branch of the UFC GYM to mark the brand’s expansion. Speaking at the launch event Mauricio ‘Tinguinha’ Mariano, Senior Director of the UFC GYM Global Jiu-Jitsu Program said: “We are on track to build the largest Jiu-Jitsu team in the world. In fact, we are expanding our program across the globe.”

Jiu-Jitsu is a martial arts form of self-defence, which is grounded on the principle of using  technique, leverage and skill in an efficient and effective way to control your opponent. Mastering the art is particularly effective for smaller and weaker individuals who will be able to defend themselves against a bigger, stronger, heavier person through the utilisation of proper technique and leverage.

Also present at the Business Bay launch was Ghazi Sebil Almadani, Acting Director of Sports Events Department at Dubai Sports Council and Hamad Al Sayer, CEO, UFC GYM Middle East and Senior Management of UFC GYM Middle East, to announce the gym is now one of three private gyms in the UAE authorised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation to compete under the UFC GYM banner in local competitions.

The facility also announced that they will be selecting five underprivileged children aged between seven and nine years old from Oman, Egypt, Bahrain and the UAE to participate in the youth Jiu-Jitsu program and help further develop their physical and social skills.

“We are pleased to announce the launch of our structured UFC GYM Jiu-Jitsu program across all of our locations in the region,” said Hamad Al Sayer, CEO, UFC GYM Middle East. “These are truly exciting times for us with the soft launch of our Egypt club taking place and with future expansion in progress for Kuwait and Lebanon allowing better accessibility to this fantastic sport.” He continued: “With heightened health concerns for youth and adults in the region, our team and regional partners are so proud to be part of a business that allows us to make a difference and help improve the community’s overall health and wellbeing as we grow.”