Over 660 students from across the UAE compete in the AUS Inter-University Ramadan Sports Tournament 2025

American University of Sharjah (AUS) recently held its highly anticipated annual AUS Inter-University Ramadan Sports Tournament 2025. The event took place from March 10 to 15 at the AUS Sports Complex and Pavilion, with events happening daily from 8 p.m. onwards. The competition featured a range of sports, including men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, volleyball, padel and a tug-of-war.

A total of 14 universities and 660 student-athletes joined in the fun, including students from AUS, Gulf Medical University, Higher Colleges of Technology–Sharjah, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, Al Qasimia University, Amity University Dubai, Canadian University Dubai, Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai, Curtin University Dubai, University of Wollongong in Dubai, Manipal University in Dubai, Middlesex University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University, University of Sharjah and Westford University.

"Honestly, the Ramadan Tournament at AUS was such a fun experience. I loved how it brought everyone together, especially after iftar—there was this great vibe on campus. The matches were highly competitive, and you could see the effort teams put into them. I enjoyed watching some games even when I wasn’t playing, and the energy from the crowd made it feel like a real tournament. The Ramadan Tournament was a fantastic way to stay active during Ramadan and bond with friends. I’d sign up again!" said Ahmad Chakif, a business administration student who competed on the men’s soccer team.

"It was an intense, well-organized, and fun tournament, with exciting matches and tough competition," said Kinza Bokhari, captain of Rochester Institute of Technology’s women's volleyball team. 

The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing the outstanding performances of student athletes and teams. This year, Middlesex University Dubai took first place in both the men’s and women’s padel tennis. The Rochester Institute of Technology triumphed in both the men’s and women’s volleyball, while AUS claimed victory in both the men’s and women’s soccer. Al Qasimia University won the men’s tug of war, and AUS secured the women’s title. The University of Sharjah emerged victorious in the women’s basketball, and Rochester Institute of Technology won the men’s basketball. AUS was crowned the overall champion.

Shaima Bin Taliah, AUS Vice Chancellor for Student Experience, and Haifa Ismail, AUS Executive Director of Student Engagement, Leadership and Athletics, attended the event and presented the medals and trophies to the winners during the prize distribution.

The event concluded on a high note, with student athletes departing with medals and trophies, but also new memories and friendships.

"At AUS, we know that students who immerse themselves in activities beyond the classroom thrive in all aspects of university life. This tournament was not just about competition—it was about connection. It brings students together, fosters a strong sense of belonging and ignites campus-wide excitement. The energy, teamwork and dedication displayed throughout this tournament prove that our students' enthusiasm and passion for sports and community are stronger than ever,” said Salma Albusaeedi, Director of Athletics and Recreation at AUS.

AUS is dedicated to providing a holistic student experience that includes a strong emphasis on sports and fitness. The university’s Office of Student Experience leverages AUS’ state-of-the-art facilities, as well as a packed calendar of competitive and recreational sporting events, to promote a culture of health and fitness and campus-wide team spirit among AUS students.

To learn more about athletics at AUS, please visit: www.aus.edu/life-at-aus/athletics-and-recreation.