10/10/2026
Abu Dhabi has launched the Abu Dhabi Sports Championship for Schools, bringing together more than 350 schools across 19 sporting disciplines. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the championship will run throughout the academic year across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra.
The competition aims to encourage students to participate in sports, develop their athletic abilities and promote values such as discipline, teamwork, respect and sportsmanship. Students from different age groups will compete through two formats: the Elite League for under-17 and under-19 athletes, and school tournaments for students aged under 9 to under 19.
The Elite League will feature seven sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, padel, athletics, jiu-jitsu and swimming. The tournament format will cover a wider range of disciplines, including rugby, archery, badminton, chess, cycling, fencing, judo, obstacle course racing, laser run, table tennis, taekwondo and wrestling, alongside selected team sports for younger age groups.
The championship will also include Unified Leagues in partnership with Special Olympics UAE, creating opportunities for Students of Determination to participate in an inclusive sporting environment. A new rewards programme will recognise outstanding schools, student athletes, teachers and coaches through scholarships, sports infrastructure funding and professional development opportunities.
The initiative will also help identify promising young athletes through the All-Star Programme, offering selected students access to professional coaching, regional and international competitions, and pathways towards sports clubs and academies. The championship aims to strengthen school sports and support the development of future sporting talent in Abu Dhabi.
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