- UAE Athletes Reach 18-Medal Milestone as Abu Dhabi Showcases the Country’s Growing Role as a Global Sports Destination
Islamabad: The United Arab Emirates continued its strong performance at the IMMAF Youth World Championships, with the UAE Mixed Martial Arts National Team securing another podium finish on the fourth day of competition at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi.
More than 1,100 young athletes representing 55 countries are competing in the prestigious championship. UAE athlete Maryam Almutwa captured the bronze medal in the Youth B Women’s 52kg division, taking the UAE’s overall medal tally to 18 medals — six gold, five silver and seven bronze.
Rising Generation of UAE MMA Talent
The Youth B competition for athletes aged 14–15 has now concluded, while the Youth A category for athletes aged 16–17 began on Friday and will continue through the championship’s conclusion on August 23.
Mohammed Jassim Al-Hosani, a member of the Mixed Martial Arts Committee at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, highlighted the long-term significance of hosting the championship in Abu Dhabi.
He said the event brings together young athletes who could develop into future world champions, professional fighters and coaches, adding that providing them with an international platform at an early stage of their careers would contribute to the future development of mixed martial arts.
Abu Dhabi Strengthens Global Sporting Profile
Al-Hosani also underscored the wider impact of the championship, noting that athletes, families and coaches from around the world are experiencing the UAE’s sporting infrastructure, organisation and hospitality.
He said international events of this scale further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global sports destination, while creating lasting connections between the UAE and a new generation of international visitors.
Strong Preparation Drives UAE’s Medal Success
Abdullah Mohammed Al-Jabareen, coach of the UAE Mixed Martial Arts National Team, said the team’s preparations focused on developing athletes’ physical and technical abilities while equipping them to compete against opponents with diverse fighting styles.
He stressed the importance of maintaining discipline, concentration and confidence under pressure, particularly at the international level.
According to Al-Jabareen, the team’s medal success reflects the athletes’ dedication and intensive preparation, while competing against representatives from numerous countries is providing invaluable international experience that will contribute to their long-term development.
Maryam Almutwa: “This Experience Will Help Me Improve”
Following her bronze-medal performance, Maryam Almutwa credited her coach’s guidance for helping her remain focused when the competition did not initially unfold as planned.
She said the experience taught her the importance of perseverance and staying committed to her strategy under difficult circumstances. While acknowledging that she had hoped for a stronger result, Almutwa said the lessons gained from competing at the world championships would motivate her to continue improving.
UAE’s Commitment to Youth Sports
The UAE’s growing medal tally at the IMMAF Youth World Championships reflects the country’s continued investment in youth development, high-performance sport and international sporting events.
With the Youth A competition now underway, the UAE national team will seek further success as Abu Dhabi continues to showcase its world-class sporting facilities and its growing reputation as an international hub for major championships.
BY: The Times Union
