ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The fourth edition of the Abu Dhabi Sports Championship for Schools & Universities will conclude in a thrilling finale on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at ADNEC Marina Hall, following record participation of 33,000 students from across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.
This flagship annual event will bring together top talent for the final competitions in six sports disciplines: Jiu jitsu, judo, futsal, archery, fencing, and laser shooting.
Open to families, educators, sports fans, and the wider community, the event promises a vibrant celebration featuring an athlete parade, special closing awards ceremony, and thrilling activities for all ages — from interactive zones and tech-powered challenges to competitions, live performances, and a buzzing fan zone with food, entertainment and fun activities for all ages.
Hosted by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), the 2024/25 season expanded to feature 18 sports disciplines highlighting ongoing efforts to promote student wellbeing, leadership, and personal growth through physical activity and inclusive participation. Twelve of these disciplines have already concluded their finals, with the remaining six set to take place this weekend during the championship finale.
The championship comes as part of ADEK’s broader talent development programme, providing student-athletes with opportunities to be scouted by local and international experts. It also helps open pathways to competitive sports and scholarships aligned with students’ academic and athletic goals.
Top performers will also be selected for elite All-Star teams representing the UAE in football, basketball, table tennis, and badminton at both national and international levels.
Driven by a common goal, the year-long championship brought to life the vision behind ADEK’s Physical Education and School Sports Policy, which aims to foster a culture of activity and wellbeing in schools through a comprehensive PE curriculum, a physical literacy framework, and active parent engagement.
The policy empowers students of all abilities to stay active throughout the school day, participate in community competitions, and benefit from qualified