Questions we get every season

The UAE programme runs two categories in the BIOGLOW™ season: FIRST® LEGO® League Explore for ages 6–10, and FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge for ages 9–16. Both sit within the Founders Edition, built on LEGO® Education SPIKE™ technology.

Yes. Purchasing the official season kit for your category is required before team registration can be completed. Kits are supplied in the UAE through the ATLAB online shop.

Explore teams take 2 to 6 students. Challenge teams take 2 to 10 students. Every team needs at least one adult coach; two is better for Challenge.

No. Most successful coaches are class teachers with no prior robotics experience. ATLAB runs free online coach orientation covering the robot game, the Innovation Project and how judging works. The coach's job is to organise and encourage, not to build the robot.

Plan on 8 to 10 weeks for Explore at one to two hours per week, and 10 to 12 weeks for Challenge at two to four hours per week. Teams that start earlier consistently perform better, mostly because they get more field testing in.

No. A student may only be registered on one team per season.

Explore is a celebration, not a tournament. Teams present their model and poster to two friendly reviewers, walk the exhibition, and every team is recognised. There is no ranking table.

Teams play multiple 2½-minute robot matches and the best score counts. Alongside that, teams are judged on Robot Design, the Innovation Project and Core Values. Awards are spread across all four areas, and the Champion's Award goes to the strongest all-round team.

Only inside the marked home area. The robot must complete missions autonomously on the field — no remote control, no live intervention.

Yes. Challenge teams may use word blocks or Python in the SPIKE™ App. Explore teams use icon blocks. Choose whatever matches your students' readiness.

Yes. ATLAB works with host schools across the Emirates for regional events. Hosting needs a sports hall or large multi-purpose space, power, and a volunteer team on the day. Get in touch if you would like to be considered.

BIOGLOW™ is the final season of FIRST® LEGO® League. FIRST® and LEGO® Education have announced the conclusion of the partnership after this season. Existing kits remain usable for teaching, and ATLAB will publish guidance on what follows for UAE schools.

ATLAB Trading LLC in Dubai is the official operational partner for the UAE. Use the contact page and your enquiry will reach the programme team directly.