In a first-of-its-kind event, organised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), the event will be the first of three rounds with a further two in December and March 2017.

It is part of the UAEJJF’s vision of promoting the sport and identifying talent to represent the UAE in future international competitions.

Abdul Monem Al Hashemi, chairman of the UAEJJF, said: “We are excited to introduce the President’s Cup this year as a part of our 2016-2017 agenda.

“We believe that this tournament will motivate Emirati players to pursue the sport as they will have the prestigious opportunity to represent their country on an international platform.

“On behalf of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, we would like to wish all participants the very best of luck and we are looking forward to witnessing some fantastic matches over the course of the tournament.”

Each club will have two players in each weight division, with age categories ranging from Under-17 to Over-21s.

Teams will also be able to earn points in the ranking system for the new season, with the winning champions earning 30 points, while the runners-up and third-placed sides will receive 20 and 10 respectively.

Five points will be awarded to the fourth-ranked side, with three awarded to the sides placed between sixth and eighth.