As the season approaches its final stretch, with only the Tokyo Grand Slam remaining in early December before the year-end break, all eyes now turn to Abu Dhabi. After a season filled with twists, thrills and world-class tournaments, the sport is poised for a grand finale. Abu Dhabi, with its impeccable organisation and its passion for judo, is ready to deliver.
Earlier today, the draw took place at the Mubadala Arena where the final technical preparations were in progress ahead of tomorrow morning’s opening contests.
Competition Schedule
- Day 1: 10:00
- Day 2: 10:30
- Day 3: 10:30
- Final Block: Every day at 17:00
During the official draw, the International Judo Federation was represented by Dr Lisa Allan, IJF Secretary General, Mr Vladimir Barta, Head Sport Director and Mr Raul Camacho, IJF Referee Director. Representing the UAE Judo Federation were Dr Naser Al Tamimi, Secretary General, Mr Mohammed Jasim, board member, and Mr Sultan Alkidbe, event director.
Dr Lisa Allan, IJF Secretary General, expressed the federation’s appreciation and admiration for the event’s hosts, “We are truly honoured to be here in the beautiful city of Abu Dhabi, for the grand slam organised in close co-operation with the United Arab Emirates Judo Federation. We express our sincere appreciation to President H.E. Mohammed Thaaloob Alderei, Secretary General Dr Al Tamimi, Mohamed Jassem and Sultan Al Ketbi for their dedicated partnership and tireless commitment. Through many years of hosting this event, their efforts have ensured that it remains not only a celebration of our sport but also a powerful platform for the continued growth of judo worldwide.
On behalf of our President, Mr Marius Vizer, and the entire International Judo Federation, it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all of you. Over the next three days, here in the Mubadala Arena, we will witness the determination, passion and skill of the world’s judoka. We also wish to express our deep gratitude to our member national federations and to our sponsors for their unwavering and invaluable support. Their contribution is not only essential to the success of this event but also to the ongoing development of judo in every region of the world.
Whether you are here with us in this arena or joining us online, these championships promise to inspire. They will highlight world-class judo, spark the ambitions of future champions and remind us of the enduring values at the heart of our sport: respect, excellence and friendship.”
Dr Naser Al Tamimi, Secretary General of the UAE Judo Federation, also addressed the audience, “Dear Lisa Allan, dear EC members of the IJF, IJF staff and the judo family, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of H.E. Mohammed Thaaloob Alderei, President of the UAE Judo Federation, we would like to thank the IJF for their support in ensuring that our grand slam grows more successful and reaches an ever-higher level each year. We would like to thank all media, international and local, as well as our sponsors for their continued commitment.
We are approaching special days for our country with the UAE National Day celebration and it is wonderful to share this moment with the global judo family. I would also like to thank the UAE staff and IJF staff for their hard work to make this competition a success. Thank you and good luck!”
The draw procedure itself was conducted by Mr Vladimir Barta who introduced the 373 competitors from 52 nations, following a refereeing briefing delivered by Mr Raul Camacho.
As anticipation builds across the judo world, Abu Dhabi is ready to host three days of elite competition, emotion and unforgettable moments. The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam promises to be a landmark edition, one that celebrates excellence on the tatami and the strong partnership between the IJF and the UAE.
