Archive · 28 Jan 2026
NBA and Abu Dhabi Extend Partnership
The NBA and Abu Dhabi have extended their partnership to bring more basketball games and activities to the UAE.
They will open a new NBA Global Academy in Abu Dhabi to train young basketball players.
The partnership also includes expanded youth programs and annual basketball tournaments.
The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 will feature games between the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers.
Since the partnership began, basketball has become more popular in the UAE, with more people playing and watching the sport.
Fans can buy NBA merchandise at the NBA Store in Yas Mall.
NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi extend partnership to bring more basketball events to Abu Dhabi.
NBA Global Academy to be established in Abu Dhabi for elite basketball development.
Expanded youth development programs, including Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA leagues.
Annual basketball tournaments starting in 2025, featuring top youth and elite players.
NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 to feature sold-out preseason games between the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers.
- Who
- NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi
- What
- Extended partnership for basketball development and events
- When
- Starting 2025
- Where
- Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Why
- To grow basketball participation and fandom in the region
- Partnership Extension
- NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi
- NBA Global Academy
- Elite basketball development program in Abu Dhabi
- Youth Development
- Expanded Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA leagues
- Basketball Tournaments
- Annual tournaments starting 2025
- NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025
- New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers
- Basketball Growth
- 60% increase in participation, 25% growth in fanbase
- NBA Store
- Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi