NYU Abu Dhabi competes in the Abu Dhabi Inter-University Sports League (ADISL) which runs from September through May and sees competitive play against area universities in Men's and Women's Football, Men's and Women's Basketball and Table Tennis. Competitive teams in Dragonboat as well as Road Racing & Triathlon compete in numerous events throughout the UAE during the year.

In 2013-2014, the Department of Athletics, Intramurals and Recreation will introduce new competitive sports adding cricket, badminton, bowling and chess. NYU Abu Dhabi's competitive sports teams are working hard to build a legacy in the region and abroad.