Sharjah Self-Defense Club Celebrates 10 Years
Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club proudly commemorates its tenth anniversary since its establishment in 2015, standing as a pioneer in self-defense sports across the United Arab Emirates. As the nation’s first dedicated self-defense sports institution, the club has become a leader in promoting and developing martial arts disciplines for all ages and genders. Over the past decade, the club has exemplified athletic excellence, strong community involvement, and international competitiveness under the strategic guidance of the Sharjah Sports Council and the visionary leadership of the Emirate’s rulers.
Establishing a Strong Foundation for Self-Defense Sports
From its inception, Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club was created with a clear mission: to cultivate an inclusive, safe, and dynamic environment for self-defense sports. The club’s vision, closely aligned with Sharjah Sports Council’s objectives, focused on making martial arts training accessible to a wide demographic while promoting physical fitness, discipline, and personal growth throughout Sharjah.
Ten Years of Growth and Sporting Culture
Throughout its ten-year journey, Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club has evolved into a prominent national institution, deeply embedding a strong culture of self-defense and martial arts within the UAE’s sports community. With sustainable development at its core, the club has integrated advanced training systems, technical excellence, and strategic planning into its operations, ensuring long-term growth and consistent athletic success. Its responsible governance and focus on sustainability have established it as a role model for sports organizations across the region.
Specialization in Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Taekwondo
Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club’s specialization in Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Taekwondo has positioned it as a premier destination for self-defense sports training in the UAE. The club currently trains approximately 1,500 athletes, with nearly 80% being UAE nationals. This commitment to developing homegrown talent reflects the club’s central role in nurturing the next generation of Emirati champions, with 71 athletes already representing the UAE on national teams.
Expanding Training Centers Across Sharjah
To ensure accessibility and community engagement, Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club has built an extensive network of training centers across the Emirate. Alongside its five main branches, the club has partnered with Sharjah Municipality to open four additional training centers, making high-quality self-defense sports training available to diverse communities. This wide reach ensures that individuals across Sharjah can benefit from expert coaching and comprehensive martial arts programs.
Prestigious Awards and International Accolades
Over the years, the club has earned approximately 35 prestigious local and international awards, a testament to its sustained excellence and global competitiveness. As the first sports club in Sharjah to achieve ISO certification, the club demonstrates its adherence to the highest standards in both athletic performance and organizational management. These accolades affirm Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club’s leadership role in the regional and international self-defense sports community.
Developing Champions and Positive Role Models
Beyond athletic success, Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club is dedicated to developing well-rounded individuals who exemplify the values of discipline, sportsmanship, and leadership. By fostering a positive and ethical environment, the club ensures that its athletes not only excel in competitions but also serve as role models who proudly represent the UAE on the global stage. Character development remains a cornerstone of the club’s mission.
Visionary Leadership and Strategic Direction
Led by Ahmed Saeed Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Club’s Board of Directors, the club continues to advance the vision of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Al Jarwan emphasizes the importance of cultivating local Emirati talent while expanding the club’s presence in international competitions. Under his leadership, the club remains focused on elevating its athletes’ experiences and solidifying its global reputation.
Ethical Values and Community Partnerships
Central to the club’s continued success is its focus on ethical values and strong partnerships with parents, sponsors, and strategic stakeholders. These collaborations ensure that young athletes receive the comprehensive support they need, both on and off the mat, to thrive personally and professionally. The club’s family-centered approach helps foster a strong community that upholds the integrity and values of sportsmanship.
Forward-Thinking Strategic Vision
According to Omar Bukhlef, Director of Strategy and Institutional Excellence, the club operates under a progressive 2023–2026 strategic plan developed through specialized foresight studies. This plan aims to position the club as a smart, globally competitive institution while focusing on sustainability, advanced digital training systems, and continuous innovation. The forward-looking strategy ensures that Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club remains at the cutting edge of global self-defense sports.
Global Jiu-Jitsu Recognition and Leadership
Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club’s leadership in Jiu-Jitsu has earned it significant international recognition. In 2023, the club was awarded the prestigious title of “Best Academy in the World for Nurturing Juniors,” highlighting its outstanding commitment to youth development. It also secured first place at the inaugural Khaled Bin Mohamed bin Zayed No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Championship and second place in the Gi division, further demonstrating its global stature.
Elevating Technical Standards and Athlete Performance
Ibrahim Al Hosani, Technical Director of Jiu-Jitsu and UAE Junior National Team Coach, shared the club’s comprehensive technical plan designed to raise training standards in line with international developments in Jiu-Jitsu. This plan focuses on enhancing competitive skills, expanding leadership opportunities, fostering global partnerships, and incorporating advanced technology into training regimens. The club’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures its athletes remain globally competitive.
Building Emirati Coaching Excellence
A unique aspect of the club’s long-term vision is its investment in developing Emirati coaching talent from its pool of former athletes. This approach preserves institutional expertise while cultivating future leaders in the coaching arena. By empowering local coaches, the club secures long-term sustainability and maintains a consistent level of excellence for generations to come.
A Legacy of Excellence and Global Impact
As Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club celebrates ten years of remarkable accomplishments, its legacy continues to inspire athletes, coaches, and communities across the UAE and the world. With its extensive training infrastructure, world-class programs, strong ethical foundations, and strategic foresight, the club stands as a beacon of self-defense sports excellence. Its decade-long journey reflects unwavering ambition, international success, and an enduring commitment to shaping the future of martial arts in the UAE.
