Expanded leagues. New sports. New pathways to grow and compete.
Be part of the future of youth sports in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi Sports Championship 2026/27
Get ready for an exciting season of competition, teamwork, growth, and unforgettable moments. Featuring 19 unique sports across various age groups, including exciting new additions such as Rugby, Wrestling, and Padel, alongside the return of fan-favourite Volleyball, the Abu Dhabi Sports Championship gives students the opportunity to challenge themselves, develop their skills, build lasting friendships, and experience the spirit of sport in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Students from public, private, and charter schools across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra will come together to represent their communities and compete with pride throughout the season.
Prepare for a journey beyond the game - one of resilience, camaraderie, achievement, and sporting excellence.
19 Sports. One Championship.
From team rivalries to individual challenges, discover a sport that inspires you to compete, grow, and shine.
Contact your school to register.
Elite League Competition
Tournament Format Competition
Where Every Athlete Belongs
The Championship proudly continues its Unified Leagues in collaboration with the Special Olympics Committee, supporting inclusive participation and creating opportunities for every athlete to compete, grow, and be part of the championship experience.
As part of the Tournament Format Competitions, Unified League competitions will take place across Football, Basketball, and Badminton.
More than a Competition
Where future champions are discovered
High-performing athletes will have the opportunity to be identified, scouted, and developed through a dedicated Talent Identification Program designed to help connect emerging talent with clubs and future development opportunities.
Creating stronger pathways for the next generation of athletes to grow, compete and excel.
Empowering the Next Generation of Coaches
The 2026/27 season will also introduce specialized training and development opportunities for coaches, helping enhance coaching capabilities and strengthen youth sports development across schools.
Helping coaches inspire, guide, and develop future champions.
Expanding Access Across the Emirate
To encourage wider participation across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, schools requiring additional support with facilities, equipment, or training resources will be provided with the assistance needed to help students train, compete, and develop within the championship.
Creating greater access and opportunities for students across the emirate.
Team Sports
Football
Basketball
Individual Sports
Archery
Athletics
Badminton
Chess
Cycling
Fencing
Judo
Jiu-Jitsu
Swimming
Table Tennis
Taekwondo
Obstacle Course Race
Laser Run
Experience the Championship in Action
Check out last year’s Championship!
Registration opening soon!
Be part of an exciting new season of competition, teamwork, development, and sporting excellence. contact your school to register for Abu Dhabi Sports Championship 2026/27.
Your step to greatness begins here.
Abu Dhabi Sports Championship 2024
Families and the larger school communities are welcome to support and enjoy an action-packed, family friendly atmosphere filled with exciting activities and entertainment.
Got Questions?
What is the Abu Dhabi Sports Championship for Schools & Universities?
The Abu Dhabi Sports Championship for Schools & Universities is an exciting sports competition that brings together student athletes in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to compete across 19 unique sports. This year’s championship will take place from October 2026 to May 2027.
What sport disciplines are in the Championship this year?
The sixth edition of the Championship includes three new sports: Rugby, Padel, and Wrestling, and Volleyball returns this season, bringing 19 unique sports to participate in.
Are there age or skill level requirements?
Different sports have different age requirements, indicated on the website or the Championship Guidebook. Students of all skill levels are encouraged to participate in the competition. The games are structured to instill a spirit of friendly competition.
When does registration open and close?
Registration is opening soon and will close on different days for the different sports.
How do you identify talented student athletes?
Talented student athletes can be identified by their schools during the registration process and in the registration portal itself. Scouts will also be present at key sports including: Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Athletics, Jiu-Jitsu, Swimming, and Padel.
How many teams and individuals can participate?
While participation is not limited, the sports in the Championship have different registration limits based on participation methods and the nature of each sport, some are limited at the number of athletes per school, others are per discipline etc. The breakdown is highlighted in the Rules & Regulations document.
Who can I contact for more information?
For more information, you can reach out to the ADEK Sports Department at sports@adek.gov.ae
How do I register for the competition?
Individuals wanting to register should contact their school. Sports coaches and leads are responsible for initiating the registration process through this link
Are there any fees associated with participating in the Championship?
There are no fees to register or to compete in the Championship. We encourage all students across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to participate in physical activity and in competitions regardless of capability, age and background.
Can family and friends join the competitions?
We value the active participation and involvement of parents and the community to encourage students during the competition.
When and where are the competitions being held?
After registration cut-off, participants will receive a competition pack with details on the timing and location of each game.
Can I make any changes to team players after registration closes?
Once registration closes there are scenarios where athletes are able to be changed. However, this is at the discretion of the organising committee depending on the nature, reason behind and timing of the request in relation to the sport the request relates to.
Can students train before the competition?
Contact ADEK sports team at sports@adek.gov.ae with the subject line “[school name] – Practice for [sport name]”. Our team will get back to you to assist with arranging training facilities where possible.