First held as a grand prix in 2009, the Abu Dhabi event has long since become a grand slam and a fixture on the international calendar, attracting many of the world’s leading judoka each year. With the LA28 Olympic qualification period now fully under way, Abu Dhabi 2026 offers another important opportunity for athletes pursuing their Olympic ambitions.
The entry list features 395 athletes from 60 nations, including 33 judoka ranked in the world top ten. Those athletes will be looking to strengthen their positions, while their challengers will aim to climb the rankings and move towards a top-eight placing that can bring a seeded position. Two world number ones are set to compete: Aoife Coughlan (AUS) and Raz Hershko (ISR). Coughlan left Baku without a medal in the -70 kg category, while Hershko won bronze in the +78 kg category.
The home crowd will rally behind Yelyzaveta Lytvynenko, the UAE’s first world champion, who will compete in front of her supporters wearing her new red backpatch. World championship finalist Makhmadbek Makhmadbekov (UAE) will also be looking to reach the top of the podium on home soil.
The entry list promises three days of high-level judo at the Mubadala Arena. Expect spectacular action, ippon wins and plenty of emotion. Follow the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam 2026 across all IJF platforms and social media, and watch the competition on JudoTV.com.