Second season of the University Games Kicks Off on 13 October to inspire sports participation among UAE students

ABU DHABI, UAE – 9 Oct - The Ministry of Sports has officially announced the launch of the second season of the UAE University Games, set to kick off on October 13, 2025. The announcement was made during a press conference held in Dubai, marking the beginning of a comprehensive and sustainable sports platform that brings together male and female university students from across all Emirates to celebrate excellence, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a highly competitive environment.

UAE University Games organized by the Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company (ADEC) and the UAE School and University Sports Federation in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, and supported by Solutions+.

His Excellency Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Sports Development and Competitiveness Sector at the Ministry of Sports and President of the UAE School and University Sports Federation, said: "The launch of the second season of the UAE University Games represents a key step forward in advancing university sports across the country. This initiative aims to empower young people, discover athletic talent, and promote a culture of sports as an essential part of everyday life throughout society."

H.E. added: “Since its launch last year, the competition has enjoyed remarkable success, shown by the steady rise in participation from universities. This season, the number of participating institutions has increased by 68 percent compared to the previous one, highlighting the confidence that higher education institutions have in this platform and its role in developing a new generation of aspiring athletes.”

His Excellency reaffirmed the Ministry of Sport’s strong support for this innovative initiative, which blends competitive spirit with community unity. H.E. emphasized its important role in fostering values of belonging and fair play among participants, while offering new opportunities for both male and female university athletes to influence the future of Emirati sports. His Excellency also applauded the ongoing partnership between the UAE School and University Sports Federation and Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company, acknowledging their key contribution to advancing this youth-focused platform.

Abdullah Al Mansoori, Acting Head of Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company, a subsidiary of Solutions+, added:

“We are proud to organize this pioneering initiative in partnership with the Ministry of Sports and the UAE Sports Federation for the Institutions of School and University Education. The growth from 28 to 47 universities is not just a number it’s a testament to the trust, enthusiasm, and collaboration of our academic community. Together, we’re building a stronger foundation for university sports across the UAE.

We would also like to sincerely thank all our sponsors and partners for their invaluable support, including MBME Group and the Advanced Technology Research Council, whose collaboration and contributions have been essential to the success and continued growth of the UAE University Games."

The second season saw an increase in the number of universities from 28 to 47 universities, a 68% increase, and will feature more than 2,700 student athletes—a 50% rise from the previous season’s 1,800 participants. The number of matches has also increased from 380 to over 700, representing a 133% increase in competition scale and reach.

This season’s competitions include six tournaments for both male and female divisions, across three major sports: football, basketball, and volleyball.

In addition, a new sport has been introduced Obstacle Course Racing in collaboration with Arabian Warrior. This exciting addition blends strength, agility, and mental endurance, and will unfold across three stages in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, culminating in the Grand Finale in Ras Al Khaimah, where the top male and female athletes from each secondary age group will be crowned champions.

The UAE University Games stand as a national platform to promote student engagement, leadership, and a culture of healthy living, while identifying and nurturing the next generation of sports talent.