...
Connect with us

Sport

Basketball Icons to Enthral Fans on NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi

NBA Fan Appreciation Day 8

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of basketball excitement as the NBA and WNBA legends head to Abu Dhabi for a star-studded NBA Fan Appreciation Day. This action-packed event is organised by the National Basketball Association (NBA). In partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), it will take place on Saturday, October 5, at Etihad Arena. Events continue at NBA District from Thursday, October 3 to Sunday, October 6 at Manarat Al Saadiyat.

NBA Fan Appreciation Day

Fans in Abu Dhabi are in for a real treat, as NBA Fan Appreciation Day promises an interactive and thrilling lineup of events. This is in conjunction with the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024, featuring preseason matchups between two of the NBA’s top teams: the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets. The games will take place on Friday, October 4 and Sunday, October 6, at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, bringing basketball fever to the UAE.

NBA Fan Appreciation Day

NBA and WNBA Legends Lineup

What makes this weekend truly special is the incredible roster of NBA and WNBA icons who will be in attendance. Together, these seven legends have accumulated a staggering 44 All-Star appearances, 12 NBA championships, and three Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards throughout their illustrious careers. Fans will have the unique opportunity to meet and interact with these basketball greats:

  • Muggsy Bogues
  • Marcus Camby
  • Derek Fisher
  • Sylvia Fowles
  • Kevin Garnett
  • Shaquille O’Neal
  • Mitch Richmond

This lineup of basketball superstars brings not only immense talent but also decades of experience and passion for the game. Whether you’re a long-time NBA follower or a new fan, this is your chance to see these legends up close and personal. You can hear their stories and be inspired by their journeys.

NBA Fan Appreciation Day

Entertainment and Performances

Beyond the basketball, NBA Fan Appreciation Day will feature a wide array of entertainment and interactive experiences for fans. Kicking off at 4:30 PM on October 5, the event will include:

  • Skills Challenge and Three-Point Contest: Watch players from the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets showcase their shooting and ball-handling skills in a high-energy competition.
  • Slam Dunk Contest: Get ready to be amazed by professional dunkers performing gravity-defying stunts in a thrilling dunk contest.
  • Mascot Appearances: The ever-popular NBA team mascots will be on hand to entertain fans, adding a light-hearted and fun element to the day.
  • Live Musical Acts: The Grammy Award-winning rapper 2 Chainz will perform live at both the NBA Night hosted by Shaquille O’Neal at NBA District on October 3 and during NBA Fan Appreciation Day on October 5.

With a combination of basketball, music, and entertainment, this day promises to be an action-packed celebration of the sport.

NBA Fan Appreciation Day

NBA District: The Ultimate Fan Experience

For those who want to immerse themselves in all things basketball, the NBA District will open its doors on October 3 at 1 PM at Manarat Al Saadiyat. This interactive fan zone is a must-visit for basketball lovers. It offers a mix of activities that celebrate the intersection of basketball, popular culture, and the NBA.

Over the years, NBA District has attracted more than 10,000 fans annually, and this year’s edition is expected to be bigger and better than ever. Some of the exciting activities you can participate in include:

  • Basketball Activities: Show off your skills on a full-size NBA court, where you can participate in basketball challenges and drills.
  • Larry O’Brien Trophy: Get your photo taken with the coveted NBA Championship Trophy.
  • NBA Merchandise: Browse and purchase limited-edition NBA gear and customisable merchandise to take home as a keepsake.
  • NBA Barbershop: Get a fresh cut at the NBA Barbershop, where you can enjoy a free haircut in true NBA style.
  • Panel Sessions: Attend engaging panel discussions where NBA legends and celebrities share their insights into the game, the culture, and what it takes to succeed on and off the court.

The NBA District offers a unique blend of interactive experiences, basketball culture, and opportunities to meet your basketball heroes, all in one vibrant location.

NBA Fan Appreciation Day

Tickets and How to Join the Action

If you’re in Abu Dhabi and want to be part of this exciting basketball celebration, tickets for NBA Fan Appreciation Day are on sale now at etihadarena.ae and ticketmaster.ae.

  • NBA Fan Appreciation Day (October 5) tickets are available through Etihad Arena.
  • Tickets for NBA District (October 3-6) can be purchased via ticketmaster.ae.

Whether you’re coming to witness the preseason games, meet NBA legends, or enjoy the music and entertainment, there’s something for every basketball fan at these events. The basketball fever in Abu Dhabi is rising, and you won’t want to miss out!


Concerts

F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to This Year’s Yasalam After-Race Shows

abu dhabi f1 9

Every year, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix isn’t just the final race on the F1 calendar — it’s the biggest music and entertainment celebration in the region. With the track action at Yas Marina Circuit already promising drama, it’s the F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up that delivers a cultural crescendo each night, bringing some of the world’s biggest artists to Etihad Park for four back-to-back nights of live music.

In 2025, the Yasalam After-Race Concerts are dialling up the energy, mixing chart-topping pop, iconic rock, and fresh global sounds to close the Formula 1 season with a bang. And the best part? Entry to the concerts is absolutely free with your Grand Prix ticket.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s unmissable F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up, including full schedules, artist breakdowns, venue details, ticket access, and insider tips to help you make the most of race week in the UAE.

abu dhabi f1 2

🎤 Who’s Performing at the F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts 2025?

This year’s line-up is not just impressive — it’s iconic. With a diverse selection of global headliners, Abu Dhabi is hosting one of the most exciting rosters the UAE has ever seen. Here’s what to expect each night:


Thursday, 4 December 2025: Benson Boone

The opening night of the Yasalam Concerts welcomes Benson Boone, the viral American pop star who’s built a loyal global fanbase with emotive songwriting and haunting vocals. Known for tracks like “Beautiful Things” and “Ghost Town”, Boone’s live shows are both intimate and powerful — the perfect way to start the weekend.

Expect a heartfelt performance that will set the tone for the four-night music experience. If you’re into atmospheric pop with real soul, this is one to catch.

Benson Boone
Benson Boone

Friday, 5 December 2025: Maroon 5

On Friday night, get ready for stadium-sized anthems and a back catalogue packed with hits. Maroon 5 take over Etihad Park with tracks like “Sugar”, “This Love”, “She Will Be Loved”, and “Moves Like Jagger”.

Led by the ever-charismatic Adam Levine, Maroon 5 are seasoned live performers — known for energetic sets that balance pop, funk, and rock with ease. This will be a singalong session like no other.

Maroon 5
Maroon 5


Saturday, 6 December 2025: Metallica

Things turn heavier on Saturday night with the arrival of metal royalty. Yes, Metallica are returning to the UAE for the first time in over a decade. With anthems like “Enter Sandman”, “One”, and “Nothing Else Matters”, this is a bucket-list performance for every rock fan.

Their live shows are intense, powerful, and driven by decades of global acclaim. If you want to experience a night of unforgettable guitar solos, iconic lyrics, and electric atmosphere, you already know where you need to be.

Metallica
Metallica


Sunday, 7 December 2025: Katy Perry

Closing out the F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up 2025 is none other than Katy Perry — the global pop superstar behind “Roar”, “Firework”, “Teenage Dream”, and “Dark Horse”.

Katy’s shows are not just concerts; they’re full-blown spectacles, complete with elaborate visuals, costume changes, and euphoric energy. Her closing night set will no doubt be the grand finale that wraps up both the race weekend and the F1 season in world-class fashion.

Katy Perry
Katy Perry


📍 Where Are the Concerts Held?

All four nights of concerts take place at Etihad Park, located on Yas Island next to the Yas Marina Circuit. It’s the largest open-air music venue in the Middle East and can hold over 35,000 fans. The space is custom-designed for major international acts and includes massive LED screens, top-tier sound systems, and excellent views from nearly every angle.

Whether you’re dancing in general admission or securing a Golden Circle upgrade, Etihad Park ensures a seamless live music experience — right in the heart of the F1 celebrations.


🎟️ How to Attend the F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts

If you’re attending the race, you already have access. That’s the beauty of the Yasalam After-Race Concerts: they’re exclusive perks for F1 ticketholders.

Here’s how it works:

Ticket TypeConcert Access
3-Day Race PassAccess to all 4 concerts
2-Day Race PassAccess to Saturday & Sunday only
1-Day Pass (Sunday)Sunday concert (Katy Perry)

Wristbands are required for concert entry and can be collected at the circuit. Make sure to head to the designated kiosks early — queues can get long, especially on Saturday and Sunday.

Want a closer view? Golden Circle Upgrades are available. These give you:

  • Front-stage access
  • Dedicated entry lanes
  • VIP beverage stations

Upgrades sell out fast — book in advance via the official Yas Marina Circuit website.

F1 Abu Dhabi
F1 Abu Dhabi

Parking Availability

As one of the most popular events in the UAE, getting to and from Yas Marina Circuit can be a challenge if you’re not prepared. Fortunately, there are plenty of parking options available for those attending. For VIPs and those with exclusive access, dedicated parking areas are available, offering seamless entry. General parking is also available for ticket holders. However, it’s wise to arrive early to avoid congestion. Shuttle services from nearby hotels and parking zones make transportation more convenient, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the action.

Alternatively, many attendees choose to use ride-hailing services such as Careem or Uber to avoid the hassle of parking altogether.

Abu Dhabi F1 - What To Expect

Partying on Yachts

For those seeking the ultimate VIP experience, yacht parties at Yas Marina are the pinnacle of luxury. These exclusive parties offer stunning views of the racetrack combined with the glamour of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Guests on these yachts are treated to a premium experience that includes gourmet dining, live DJs, and front-row views of the F1 action.

Abu Dhabi F1 - What To Expect

Yachts have become a signature of the F1 weekend, drawing celebrities, influencers, and high-profile guests. If you want to mingle with the elite, partying on a yacht during the F1 weekend is an unforgettable experience.

The F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up will mean another great year

Partying at W Abu Dhabi

The legendary W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is known for hosting some of the most extravagant after-parties during the F1 weekend. The hotel, situated directly over the Yas Marina Circuit, is at the centre of the action. The WET Deck pool parties are not to be missed. These events offer spectacular views of the race while you party with international DJs spinning deep house and electronic beats.

Inside the hotel, VIP lounges cater to those looking for a more intimate party experience. With high-end décor, luxurious seating areas, and exclusive drinks, the W Abu Dhabi transforms into one of the most happening venues for nightlife during F1 weekend.

Abu Dhabi F1 – What To Expect

Other Exciting Things to Do

The Abu Dhabi F1 weekend isn’t just about racing and parties; there’s a host of other exciting activities around Yas Island to keep you entertained:

  • Ferrari World: Thrill-seekers can enjoy the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, along with other Ferrari-themed attractions.
  • Yas Waterworld: Perfect for cooling off in between the F1 festivities, this waterpark offers over 40 rides and attractions.
  • Yas Mall: Take a shopping break with some retail therapy at one of the region’s largest malls. The mall features a range of international brands and dining options.

For motorsport fans, the Pit Lane Walk is an exciting opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the cars and teams. Fans can walk along the pit lane and catch a glimpse of the F1 teams preparing for race day.


Whether you’re there for the exhilarating races, epic concerts featuring Eminem, the mind-blowing Afterlife party, or just to soak up the unique atmosphere, the Abu Dhabi F1 weekend offers an experience like no other.

Continue Reading

Sport

Burj2Burj 2025: Dubai’s Most Iconic Half Marathon Returns

Burj2Burj 2025

After a spectacular debut in January 2024, Burj2Burj is making its highly anticipated return on 9 February 2025. This 21.1km half marathon offers a one-of-a-kind running experience. It takes participants on a breathtaking route between two of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks—from the Burj Khalifa to the Burj Al Arab.

If you missed the first edition, this is your chance to lace up and be part of one of the most scenic races in the world.

Will we see you at Burj2Burj 2025
Will we see you at Burj2Burj 2025


The Route: A Run Through Dubai’s Skyline

Designed by experienced runners, the Burj2Burj course offers an unmatched blend of urban energy and coastal beauty. The race begins at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. It weaves through some of Dubai’s most famous streets and finishes at the majestic Burj Al Arab, one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

Burj2Burj 2025 is a half marathon
Burj2Burj 2025 is a half marathon with a great view


Race Day Experience: More Than Just a Run

🏅 Finisher’s Park: After crossing the finish line, head to the buzzing Finisher’s Park, where you can celebrate your achievement with fellow runners. Enjoy refreshments, and soak in the post-race vibes.

🎶 Live Music & Supportive Crowds: The race route is lined with live music performances and cheering spectators. This ensures every step of your run is filled with energy and motivation.

🎁 Exclusive Goodie Bags: Participants will receive a race bib and a packed goodie bag. Don’t forget to pick yours up at race village registration on 7 February.

Get redy for Burj2Burj 2025
Get redy for Burj2Burj 2025


How to Register & Get Ready

📅 Live registrations begin on 7 February 2025 at the race village. Participants can collect their bibs and gear up for the big day.

👟 Training Programmes Start in October 2024: Whether you’re a seasoned runner or preparing for your first half marathon, Burj2Burj offers in-person and online training programmes starting in October 2024. These are designed to help you build endurance and confidence.

🔞 Age Requirement: Participants must be 16 years or older to take part in the event.

Burj2Burj returns for 2025 this Frebruary
Burj2Burj returns for 2025 this Frebruary


Why You Should Run Burj2Burj 2025

Race through Dubai’s most famous landmarks 🏙️
Unparalleled views of the city’s skyline 🌅
Incredible race-day atmosphere with live music & cheering crowds 🎶🎉
Comprehensive training support for all participants 👟💪
Exclusive race kits, goodie bags & post-run celebrations 🎁🏅

Burj2Burj 2025 has it's devoted fans
Burj2Burj 2025 has fans


Join the Movement!

Whether you’re chasing a personal record, looking for a fun fitness challenge, or simply want to experience Dubai’s most iconic half marathon, Burj2Burj 2025 is a must!

📆 Mark your calendars: 9 February 2025
📍 From Burj Khalifa to Burj Al Arab
🔗 Get race-ready and register early!

Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com

Continue Reading

Sport

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships: A Grand Slam Experience in Dubai

DUBAI OPEN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP 2023

Dubai’s sporting calendar shines bright every year with the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. It is one of the most anticipated events in the region. From 16 February to 1 March, this internationally acclaimed tournament will bring the world’s top tennis talent to the city. Two weeks of thrilling matches and unforgettable moments are in store. It’s more than a competition; it’s a celebration of sport, entertainment, and community.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 1
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

A Key Stop on the Global Tennis Tour

As a vital stop on the professional tennis circuit, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is a favorite among players and fans alike. It features both WTA 1000 women’s matches and ATP 500 men’s challenges. The event plays a pivotal role in shaping the season for the sport’s biggest names. It consistently attracts a star-studded line-up. This delivers high-intensity matches. These matches keep spectators on the edge of their seats.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 6
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

Beyond its prestigious reputation, the tournament has a unique charm thanks to its scenic venue, Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, and its reputation for combining elite tennis with world-class hospitality. The event’s importance extends beyond the courts, showcasing Dubai’s ability to host large-scale, internationally recognised events.


Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2

Legends on the Court

The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships has a long history of welcoming some of the greatest players in the sport. Past tournaments have featured legends such as Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Serena and Venus Williams, who have left unforgettable marks on the tournament’s history. Players like Martina Hingis have also graced the courts, highlighting the calibre of talent that the event consistently draws.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

These iconic matches have been a testament to the skill, determination, and passion of tennis stars from across the globe. Fans attending this year can expect the same level of world-class performance from the game’s current elite.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 3

Entertainment On and Off the Court

While the matches offer intense action with every spin, slice, and smash, the event goes beyond tennis. The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, providing plenty of off-court entertainment. From food stalls and live music to interactive games and activities for all ages, the event promises a vibrant festival-like vibe.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 8

For those who want to relax between matches, the venue’s hospitality options are top-notch, ensuring a luxurious and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fan or someone looking for a memorable day out, this event has something to offer everyone.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 10

Mark Your Calendar

The 2025 edition promises to continue its legacy of excellence. Set at the iconic Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the best yet. Fans can look forward to witnessing thrilling matches and exploring a lively, entertaining atmosphere that only Dubai can provide.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 4

Don’t miss this chance to watch the best players in the world battle it out for glory while enjoying the electric energy of this renowned tournament. Stay tuned for updates on ticket sales, player line-ups, and event highlights.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 9

Whether you’re cheering courtside or soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the championships is a must-attend event on Dubai’s action-packed sporting calendar.

Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com

Continue Reading

Trending