In line with the progressive approach of the UAE Government to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and protect the health and wellbeing of the country, its residents and visitors, the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), the official governing body for the sport in the Emirates, has completed a COVID-19 vaccination programme for its employees and members of the UAE jiu-jitsu national team.

The rollout of the programme, titled ‘Vaccination Done’ is the latest initiative by the UAEJJF to play its part in tackling the virus and continuing competitive sport in a safe and secure environment. The UAEJJF pioneered a return to live sport in the Middle East back in May, in adherence to stringent federal health and safety guidelines and global best practice in combatting the virus.

Commenting on providing its members with the vaccine, UAEJJF CEO Fahad Al Shamsi, said: “The UAE is continuing the philanthropic legacy of our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, with a commitment to help as many people as possible. The UAEJJF is steadfast in its support of our visionary leadership and by giving the vaccine to our staff and athletes, we are one step further forward in stopping the spread of the virus.”

“The UAE’s leaders have shown us the way in preventing the spread of COVID-19 by taking the vaccine, which gives us hope of a return to normal. Now it is our turn to continue with what they started.”

The UAE’s most decorated jiu-jitsu fighter, Faisal Al Ketbi, was one of those to receive the vaccine. “We all have a responsibility in combating the spread of this virus. Aligning with the government’s approach, vaccination is key to building a society with strong immunity against the virus. However, we still must take the precautionary measures embedded by the health authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Al Ketbi.

“Taking the vaccine will give me and my fellow athletes the physiological confidence when stepping onto the mat in international events. The thought of us being immune to the virus and not proving a risk to others will provide this extra edge and allow us to perform with no concern.”