Unveiling the Sixth Dubai Schools Games: A Platform for Young Talents
A Growing Initiative
The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) has officially unveiled the sixth edition of the Dubai Schools Games, marking it as the largest school sports initiative in the region. This year’s event is set to welcome over 25,000 students hailing from 185 schools across Dubai, showcasing the incredible enthusiasm for sports among the youth.
Organizers and Key Partnerships
In collaboration with ESM as the operational partner and under the title sponsorship of Midea, this season builds upon the Council’s ongoing mission to discover and nurture young athletic talent through the Champions Makers Initiative. This strategic program focuses on cultivating future Emirati athletes, ensuring a strong pipeline of talent for years to come.
The announcement came during a press briefing at GEMS American Academy in Al Barsha, attended by prominent figures including Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sports Development and Competitiveness Sector, and H.E. Saeed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council. Their presence underscores the importance of this initiative, not just for athletes but for the community as a whole.
Expanding Sports and Community Participation
One of the key highlights of this year’s edition is the introduction of obstacle-course activities within the school competitions. “These challenging events not only enhance physical fitness but also foster teamwork and collaboration among students,” stated Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum. He emphasized the initiative’s aim to make physical activities more inclusive and foster a culture of active living among students.
By partnering with the UAE Obstacle Sports Federation and coordinating with the Ministry of Education, the strategy seeks to deepen community engagement and increase participation rates in sports. The introduction of obstacle-course challenges is expected to help students build essential life skills—attributes like trust, confidence, and resilience, which are vital for personal development.
A Significant Increase in Participation
H.E. Saeed Hareb highlighted the initiative’s rapid growth, noting that this season’s number of participants is projected to more than double from previous years—jumping from 9,000 to over 25,000 students this year. “The Dubai Schools Games serve as a vital platform for identifying and nurturing future champions. It aligns seamlessly with the Council’s Talent Identification and Development Policy,” he affirmed.
This expansion reflects the overarching goal of fostering athletic excellence and serves as a vital link between education and sports sectors. Plus, it opens doors for sports clubs to scout budding talents, which aligns with Dubai’s broader vision for youth engagement and talent development.
New Competitions and Expansion of Sports
This year, the Games will introduce qualifying rounds in key sports like football, athletics, volleyball, and basketball. These changes will provide a structured pathway for students to progress from school tournaments to official championships. Additionally, new competitive opportunities in sports such as laser run, judo, jiu-jitsu, taekwondo, and water polo will diversify the offerings available to students.
The season features an impressive 107 days of competition—almost double compared to last year—and showcases more than 25 sports. Notably, 13 tournaments will be streamed live online, culminating in a grand awards ceremony set for June 25, 2026.
Talent Identification Program
An essential aspect of the Games is its role in the Dubai Talent Identification Program. This initiative monitors and records athletes’ performance through official “Talent Cards,” creating avenues for national team selections and scholarships. Schools that excel will have the chance to represent Dubai in the UAE National School Games Finals in April 2026.
Kickoff and Special Initiatives
The season kicks off with the Midea Social Championships on September 26, 2025, dedicated to physical education teachers and school staff, to celebrate the beginning of this exciting sports season. The Students’ Schools Golf Championship is slated for the second week of October, further amplifying opportunities for young athletes.
Midea’s General Manager for the Middle East and Africa, Paris Li, expressed excitement about continuing their sponsorship. “We are dedicated to fostering local investment and youth empowerment through sport and innovation,” he remarked. This year, Midea will also launch a unique initiative offering a complete home makeover using their latest products to one lucky winner during the season.
Aligning with Dubai’s Vision
The Dubai Schools Games resonate with the strategic vision of the Dubai Sports Council and the broader Dubai 2033 Plan, which aim to promote talent, inclusivity, and community wellness through sport. This year’s edition is not only a competitive platform but also includes various training programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of athletes.
All events are free for public attendance, encouraging community involvement and support for young talents.
For complete details regarding the season calendar, registration, and schedules, visit the official website: www.dubaischoolsgames.ae.
