UAE robotics league puts students with intellectual disabilities at the heart of 279 teams

At least half the members of each of the 279 teams competing in the UAE’s 2026 Unified Robotics League must have intellectual and developmental disabilities, placing inclusion at the heart of a national competition that brings students of different abilities together through technology.

The league brings together 1,007 students from 254 schools across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, Dubai and Sharjah. Qualifying rounds began in Al Ain on October 26, with students working together to design robots, develop coding solutions and tackle practical challenges.

Organised under Special Olympics UAE’s Unified Champion Schools programme, the competition aims to create more inclusive school communities by bringing students with and without disabilities together through educational, sporting and social activities.

The qualifying rounds will take place across five locations. Al Ain is hosting 54 teams on October 26 and 27, followed by 18 teams in Al Dhafra on October 29. Dubai will host 80 teams on November 1 and 2, while Sharjah will welcome 25 teams on November 3. Abu Dhabi will stage the largest round, with 102 teams, from November 4 to 6.

Teams will be judged on technical performance, innovation, collaboration, presentation and communication, with participants competing across different age groups.

Beyond the technical challenge, the league offers students an opportunity to build confidence, exercise creativity and develop problem-solving skills. By working towards a shared goal, participants can demonstrate their abilities, learn from one another and experience the value of teamwork.

“The league’s impact extends beyond technical skills. It builds self-confidence, strengthens teamwork and helps build school communities where differences are embraced and every student has the opportunity to contribute,” said Talal Al Hashemi, national director of Special Olympics UAE.

ADNOC is supporting the league as its strategic partner.

Special Olympics UAE was re-established as an independent public benefit organisation in 2017. It runs programmes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, focusing on participation, personal development and inclusion.

The league has grown since its launch, expanding from 142 teams representing 142 schools in the 2023–24 season to 202 teams from 165 schools in 2025. Organisers said last year’s edition attracted more than 1,600 participants across the UAE.