The UAEJJF BJJ Tournament has become one of the most respected platforms in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It was founded under the patronage of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF). This series of tournaments— also includes the prestigious Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. It has helped elevate the global BJJ scene by promoting professionalism, sportsmanship, and high-level competition.

It does not matter if you are a new BJJ Gi competitor or a seasoned No-Gi grappler. Understanding the UAEJJF rules and decision system is crucial for success on the mats. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the format, scoring system, and legal techniques. Moreover, it will discuss how decisions are made in UAEJJF-sanctioned Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournaments.

What is the UAEJJF?

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF) is the official body responsible for promoting and regulating BJJ in the UAE. Since its inception in 2012, it has partnered with global organizations to host dozens of professional tournaments each year.

The UAEJJF's goal is not only to grow Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the Middle East. But it also aims at standardizing a professional rule set that encourages clean, controlled, and strategic grappling—especially in the Gi format. Their events attract world-class athletes from all over the globe, including black belts from Brazil, the USA, Japan, and Europe.

Key Features of UAEJJF BJJ Tournaments

Here is what makes UAEJJF tournaments stand out in the global BJJ landscape:

• Professionalism: Matches are conducted with Olympic-level discipline and organization.
• Gi Focused: Most events are conducted in the BJJ Gi, although No-Gi divisions are available.
• Ranked System: Athletes earn points across a global ranking. Thus, leading to qualification for major tournaments like the Abu Dhabi World Pro.
• Cash Prizes: Many tournaments offer significant financial incentives.
• Uniform Standardization: Specific Gi color and patch rules must be followed.

UAEJJF BJJ Rules Overview

The UAEJJF ruleset is distinct from the IBJJF or ADCC and focuses on fairness, technical skill, and athlete safety. Here is an overview of the critical components.

Match Duration (Adult Divisions)

• White Belt: 4 minutes
• Blue Belt: 5 minutes
• Purple Belt: 6 minutes
• Brown Belt: 6 minutes
• Black Belt: 6 minutes

This shorter match duration compared to IBJJF (where black belts go for 10 minutes) encourages fast-paced and strategic exchanges.

Legal Techniques and Restrictions

Just like in other Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi tournaments, the legality of moves depends on belt level. However, UAEJJF maintains a stricter approach in some areas:

Allowed Techniques:

• Sweeps
• Guard passes
• Mount and back control
• Arm locks and triangle chokes
• Lapel and collar chokes (Gi only)

Illegal Techniques (in most divisions):

• Heel hooks (even in No-Gi)
• Neck cranks
• Slam from guard
• Scissor takedowns
• Wrist locks (below brown belt)

Make sure your Gi techniques follow the federation’s guidelines. Improper grips, such as four fingers inside the sleeve, can result in penalties.

Scoring System in UAEJJF Tournaments

The UAEJJF uses a points-based system with advantages and penalties, much like the IBJJF. However, the way they award and interpret actions can be slightly different.

Points:

To score, the position must be held for 3 seconds with clear control and stability. For example, if you execute a guard pass but lose control before 3 seconds, no points will be awarded.

Advantages:

• Awarded for near-successful submissions or positional control attempts.
• Used to decide a winner if the match ends in a tie-on point.

Penalties:

• Stalling or lack of engagement
• Fleeing the mat area to avoid submissions
• Illegal grips or techniques
• Verbal abuse or unsportsmanlike conduct
• 3 penalties lead to disqualification.

Uniform Requirements

A clean, regulation-approved BJJ Gi is required in most UAEJJF tournaments, with specific standards:

• Colors Allowed: White, blue, and black only
• Patch Placement: Only in designated areas (shoulders, chest, thighs)
• Belt: Must correspond to your division and be tied correctly
• Gi Fit: The sleeve must reach no more than 5cm from the wrist; pants must be no more than 5cm from the ankle

Competitors may be disqualified if their Gi does not meet requirements during the pre-fight check.

For No-Gi divisions:

• Rash guard must reflect belt rank (color-coded)
• Grappling shorts without pockets or zippers

If you are a gym owner or brand, supplying your athletes with regulation-compliant BJJ Gi gear can give your team a professional edge. Many competitors use custom BJJ gear from trusted brands like Novakik BJJ.

Decision and Tie-Breaker System

If no clear winner emerges through points or advantages, the match decision is left to the referee, based on the following:

Referee Decision Criteria:

• Who was more aggressive or dominant
• Who attempted more submissions
• Who maintained positional control
• Who incurred fewer penalties

Unlike ADCC, where points start only after a specific period, or IBJJF, where referee decisions are rare, UAEJJF matches may frequently go to decision—especially at high levels.

Ranking System

UAEJJF events are part of a global ranking circuit. Competitors earn points by participating and winning at:

• National Pro events
• Continental Pro events
• Grand Slams (Tokyo, London, Rio, etc.)
• Abu Dhabi World Pro

The ranking system influences invitations to the World Pro and eligibility for cash prizes.

Tips to Succeed at a UAEJJF Tournament

• Know the Rules: Don’t risk disqualification over an illegal move or non-compliant Gi.
• Train Competition Rounds: Simulate 6-minute matches under UAEJJF timing.
• Study Past Matches: Watch black belt finals from Abu Dhabi World Pro to understand pace and strategy.
• Focus on Positional Control: Quick submissions are great, but solid guard passes and mount control score reliably.
• Conditioning is Key: The shorter match time demands high intensity from start to finish.

Conclusion

The UAEJJF BJJ tournament circuit is a professional and highly respected platform. It has changed the landscape of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu worldwide. With its clear structure, international presence, and commitment to fair competition, it offers a unique opportunity for both rising and elite Gi athletes.

Understanding the rules, scoring system, and expectations of the UAEJJF can mean the difference between a first-round exit and a gold medal performance. Equip yourself with the right knowledge, prepare your game around the rules, and step on the mat with confidence.