Sixth edition of Dubai Schools Games launched

The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) has announced details of the sixth edition of the Dubai Schools Games, the largest school sports programme of its kind, which will feature participation from over 25,000 students representing 185 schools across Dubai.

Organised in cooperation with ESM as the operational partner and under the title sponsorship of Midea, the new season builds upon the council’s broader efforts to identify and nurture young sporting talent under the champions makers Initiative — a strategic programme aimed at developing future Emirati athletes.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at Gems American Academy in Al Barsha, attended by Sheikh Suhail Bin Butti Al Maktoum, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sports Development and Competitiveness Sector at the Ministry of Sports and Chairman of the UAE School and University Sports Federation; Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council; and Dr. Abdulrahman Nasser, Executive Director of Institutional Support at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

Also in attendance were Dr. Thuraya Al Salmi, Director of Technical and Vocational Education and Acting Director of Student Wellbeing at the Ministry of Education; Paris Li, General Manager of Midea Home Appliances – Middle East and Africa; Doncho Hadzhiev, Head of Gulf Region at Almarai Emirates; Bassel Alnahlaoui, Chief Business Officer at Careem; Mazen Al Nashar, General Manager of Volkswagen Al Nabooda Automobiles; and Marco Vocale, Commercial Director of ESM and organiser of the Dubai Schools Games.

Sheikh Suhail affirmed that introducing obstacle-course activities within school competitions reflects the Ministry’s commitment to expanding mass participation across a variety of sports and making physical activity more accessible to all students.

He noted that the initiative, implemented with the support of the UAE Obstacle Sports Federation and in coordination with the Ministry of Education, seeks to strengthen community engagement and encourage a culture of active living among school students. “Obstacle-course events promote teamwork and collaboration among students,” Sheikh Suhail said.

“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 added that the inclusion of such activities aims to diversify sporting opportunities, enhance social cohesion, and boost students’ self-confidence while opening new pathways for athletic and personal development. Sheikh Suhail also thanked attendees and organisers for their efforts in delivering an exceptional sixth edition, noting that the success of the Games reflects the UAE’s vision of advancing school sports and empowering future generations.

Hareb said the games continue to grow year after year, reflecting the Council’s success in creating a sustainable environment for school sports and talent development.

“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 said.

Hareb added, “The Dubai Schools Games serve as a key platform for discovering and nurturing future champions. It supports the implementation of the Council’s Talent Identification and Development Policy, which aligns with Dubai’s vision to invest in people and enhance athletic excellence. The initiative also offers sports clubs the opportunity to scout young talent and strengthen the link between the education and sports sectors.”