AJP / UAEJJF Rules

Overview

The AJP (Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro), formerly known as the UAEJJF (UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation), runs the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam tour and the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. It's the second-largest international gi competition circuit after the IBJJF.

Backed by the UAE government, AJP events feature strong production value and prize money. The Grand Slam series visits multiple cities worldwide (Abu Dhabi, Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo, London, Los Angeles), making it one of the most international circuits in the sport.

AJP scoring is similar to IBJJF but with key differences, most notably the golden score overtime that guarantees a winner in every match.

Points & Scoring

Points System

AJP scoring is close to IBJJF but with some differences:

Position	Points
Takedown	2 (4 for a throw landing on the back)
Sweep	2
Knee on belly	2
Guard pass	3
Mount	4
Back control	4

No Advantages

Unlike IBJJF, AJP does not use advantages as tiebreakers. Instead, tied matches go to golden score overtime.

Golden Score

If the match is tied at the end of regulation, a golden score overtime period begins (typically 2 minutes). The first competitor to score any points wins immediately. This sudden-death format produces dramatic finishes and eliminates controversial referee decisions.

If golden score also ends tied, the referee makes a decision — but this is rare since the sudden-death format usually produces a winner.

Time Limits

Regulation Time

Belt	Duration
White / Blue	5 minutes
Purple	6 minutes
Brown	7 minutes
Black	8 minutes

Golden Score Overtime: 2 additional minutes

Note that black belt matches are shorter than IBJJF (8 min vs 10 min), but the golden score extension means total match time can reach 10 minutes.

Legal Techniques

AJP rules are similar to IBJJF with some differences:

Key Differences from IBJJF
- Knee reaping: Legal in adult brown and black belt divisions
- This is a significant departure — knee reaping is one of the most controversial restrictions in IBJJF rules

Same as IBJJF
- Heel hooks prohibited in gi
- Wrist locks from blue belt onward
- Slams illegal
- Cervical locks banned
- Progressive submission unlocking by belt level

Key Characteristics

Ranking System

AJP maintains a global ranking system. Competitors earn points from Grand Slam events, continental championships, and national tournaments. Rankings determine seeding at major events and can affect invitation to prestigious events.

Prize Money

AJP Grand Slam events offer cash prizes, making them attractive to professional competitors. The Abu Dhabi World Pro is one of the highest-paying events in BJJ.

International Reach

With Grand Slams on multiple continents, AJP provides competitive opportunities in regions where IBJJF events are less frequent, particularly the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

Who Should Compete Under AJP Rules

AJP is excellent for competitors who want international competition with strong organization and prize money. The golden score rule means you always get a definitive result. The more permissive stance on knee reaping appeals to competitors who find IBJJF's restrictions overly conservative.