The world’s finest judokas converge on Abu Dhabi for the 2026 Grand Slam
Elite competitors from across the globe arrive at Mubadala Arena this week to contest one of international judo's most prestigious tournaments, with the UAE fielding a formidable national contingent.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam returns to Mubadala Arena from 29th to 31st October, drawing the sport’s most accomplished athletes to compete under the auspices of the International Judo Federation. The tournament brings together medallists and champions whose records speak to years of dedication and refinement in one of martial sport’s most demanding disciplines.
Among the distinguished competitors arriving in Abu Dhabi are Japan’s Ryotaro Masuchi, whose bronze medal in the under-100kg category at the 2025 Tokyo Grand Slam marks his standing among the sport’s elite; Azerbaijan’s Dzhamal Gamzatkhanov, bronze medallist at the 2026 Hungary Grand Slam in the over-100kg division; Russia’s Kristina Dudina, gold medallist at the 2024 European Championships in the under-48kg category; and Hungary’s Aron Szabo, bronze medallist at the 2024 European Under-23 Championships in the under-73kg class. Their presence signals the Grand Slam’s significance within the international judo calendar.
The UAE national team, competing as one of the world’s elite judoka converge on Mubadala Arena, presents a roster of 14 athletes comprising ten men and four women, approved by the International Judo Federation following rigorous selection. As we reported in our earlier coverage, Abu Dhabi’s excellence in hosting has been formally recognised by the IJF, with over 60 national teams competing for Olympic qualification points.
The Higher Organising Committee, led by UAE Judo Federation President Mohammed Bin Thaaloob Al Derie, has overseen meticulous preparations at Mubadala Arena under the direction of Sultan Al Ketbi, Chairman of the Organisation and Protocol Committees and Tournament Director, alongside Khalifa Salem Al Qubaisi, Organisation Supervisor. The committee’s recent review confirmed that all arrangements meet the highest international standards. The official draw, conducted via video link, takes place on Wednesday, initiating the formal competition structure.
What it means for Abu Dhabi
The Grand Slam reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier destination for international sporting excellence and Olympic qualification pathways. The event demonstrates the emirate’s capacity to host competitions of the highest calibre whilst supporting the development of Emirati athletic talent on a global stage.
For the UAE national team, competing at home before the international community offers both the honour of representing the nation and the advantage of familiar conditions. The presence of such distinguished international competitors elevates the competition’s prestige and provides invaluable experience for Emirati judokas seeking to advance their careers within the sport’s elite structures.
Source: WAM
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