Dubai Sports Council Unveils Sixth Edition of Dubai Schools Games: Over 25,000 Students Set to Compete
DUBAI, 16th October, 2025 – The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) has unveiled the eagerly awaited sixth edition of the Dubai Schools Games, the largest school sports program of its kind in the emirate. This year’s competition, which stands as a testament to Dubai’s commitment to nurturing youth talent, will see participation from over 25,000 students across 185 schools in Dubai.
Organized in partnership with ESM and supported by Midea as title sponsor, the 2025-2026 season strengthens the Council’s Champions Makers Initiative, a vital strategy for identifying and grooming young sporting talent, in particular future Emirati athletes. The new edition reflects a marked expansion in both participation numbers and the variety of sports offered.
The official announcement took place at GEMS American Academy in Al Barsha during a press conference attended by key stakeholders, including Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum, Saeed Hareb, and Dr. Abdulrahman Nasser.
Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum emphasized that the inclusion of obstacle-course activities in school competitions reinforces the Ministry’s mission to boost mass participation and encourage diverse modes of physical activity. According to Sheikh Suhail, “Obstacle-course events promote teamwork and collaboration among students. Some challenges require participants to help their peers overcome barriers, building trust, confidence, and resilience. These activities not only develop physical fitness but also instill essential life skills that prepare young people to face future challenges with determination and adaptability.”
He further highlighted that such additions foster social cohesion, boost self-confidence, and unlock new opportunities for athletic and personal growth.
Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, remarked on the program’s rapid growth, stating, “The number of participants is expected to more than double this season, surpassing 25,000 students from 170 schools, compared to 9,000 participants in the previous edition.”
He added that the Games are essential for talent discovery and development, aligning with Dubai’s vision of investing in people and promoting athletic excellence. Hareb also emphasized the role of the initiative in linking the education and sports sectors, providing clubs with fresh talent and supporting the Council’s Talent Identification and Development Policy.
The upcoming season introduces qualifying rounds in football, athletics, volleyball, and basketball, offering students a clear pathway from school-level competitions to the official championships. Additionally, the program introduces new tournaments in laser run, judo, jiu-jitsu, taekwondo, and water polo, further diversifying opportunities and encouraging broader participation.
With 107 days of competition scheduled—nearly double last year’s program—and over 25 sports represented, the Games mark a significant scaling up of the event. For the first time, 13 tournaments will be streamed live online, culminating in a celebratory awards ceremony on 25 June 2026.
Organizers also underscored the pivotal role of the Games in the Dubai Talent Identification Program. Through the monitoring and recording of students’ achievements on official “Talent Cards“, participants may be selected for national teams, scholarships, and advanced training programs. Top performers will go on to represent Dubai at the UAE National School Games Finals in April 2026.
The Dubai Schools Games are in full alignment with the Dubai Sports Council’s strategic vision and the Dubai 2033 Plan to foster talent, inclusion, and community health through sport. This season integrates not only competitions but also development initiatives and training programs, ensuring the emergence of a promising new generation of athletes.
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