Sport

Padel: The UAE’s New Favourite Sport

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been a hub for luxurious lifestyles, innovative architecture, and vibrant cultural events. Recently, the nation has embraced a new sporting phenomenon: padel. This sport, blending elements of tennis and squash, has quickly become a favourite among Emiratis and expatriates alike. As padel courts sprout across the UAE, it’s clear that this sport is here to stay. Let’s delve into the rise of Padel: The UAE’s New Favourite Sport, its appeal, and why it has captured the hearts of so many in the UAE.

The Origins and Evolution of Padel

Padel, often referred to as paddle in English-speaking countries, originated in Mexico in the late 1960s. It was created by Enrique Corcuera, who adapted his squash court to fit his garden. This sport soon gained popularity in Spain and Argentina before spreading across Europe and, eventually, the globe. Unlike traditional tennis, padel is played on a smaller court surrounded by glass walls, adding a dynamic element as the ball can be played off these surfaces.

The Rise of Padel in the UAE

The UAE’s affinity for padel can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the sport’s accessibility appeals to people of all ages and fitness levels. Padel is less physically demanding than tennis, making it suitable for casual players and competitive athletes alike. Additionally, the social aspect of padel – it is typically played in doubles – resonates with the UAE’s communal culture.

In recent years, the UAE has seen a surge in the construction of padel courts. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi now host numerous state-of-the-art padel facilities. For instance, the Real Racquet Academy in Dubai and the Abu Dhabi Country Club have become hotspots for padel enthusiasts. These venues offer world-class courts, professional coaching, and frequent tournaments, further boosting the sport’s popularity.

Why Padel is Captivating the UAE

1. Accessibility and Inclusivity

Padel’s simple rules and quick learning curve make it an inviting sport for beginners. Unlike traditional racket sports that can require significant skill and strength, padel’s emphasis on strategy and teamwork levels the playing field. This inclusivity has made it particularly popular among families and mixed-gender groups.

2. Health and Fitness Benefits

Playing padel offers numerous health benefits. It provides a full-body workout, enhancing cardiovascular health, improving coordination, and building muscular strength. The sport’s quick-paced nature ensures that players remain active and engaged, making it an excellent way to stay fit.

3. Social Interaction

In the UAE, where social interaction is a vital aspect of daily life, padel’s format as a doubles game encourages camaraderie and teamwork. Many clubs and facilities organise social events and tournaments, fostering a community spirit among players. This aspect of the sport aligns perfectly with the UAE’s cultural emphasis on social bonds and networking.

The Role of Padel in UAE’s Sports Culture

Padel has become more than just a recreational activity in the UAE; it is shaping the nation’s sports culture. The UAE’s commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle is evident in its support for padel. The government and private sector have invested significantly in sports infrastructure, ensuring that residents have access to top-notch facilities.

Moreover, padel tournaments in the UAE are gaining international recognition. Events like the Dubai Padel Cup and the Abu Dhabi Padel Tournament attract players from around the world, showcasing the UAE as a premier destination for padel sports. These events not only elevate the sport’s profile but also boost tourism and the local economy.

Padel and the Future of Sports in the UAE

As padel continues to grow in popularity, it is set to play a pivotal role in the future of sports in the UAE. The sport’s appeal across different age groups and fitness levels positions it as a key component of the nation’s sports development strategy. Initiatives aimed at introducing padel in schools and community centres are already underway, ensuring that future generations embrace the sport.

Padel Facilities in the UAE

The rapid expansion of padel facilities in the UAE highlights the sport’s growing significance. Top venues like the Real Racquet Academy, Dubai Sports World, and Emirates Palace offer world-class courts and amenities. These facilities provide coaching sessions, leagues, and social events, making it easy for newcomers to get involved and for seasoned players to hone their skills.

Testimonials from Padel Enthusiasts

Quotes from local padel enthusiasts highlight the sport’s impact:

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, an avid padel player, has been instrumental in promoting the sport. He often shares his padel experiences on social media, inspiring many to take up the game.

“Padel is a fantastic sport that combines skill, strategy, and fitness. It’s great to see its growth in the UAE.”
Rafael Nadal

Conclusion

Padel has swiftly risen to become the UAE’s new favourite sport, captivating a diverse range of players with its accessibility, health benefits, and social nature. As the nation continues to invest in sports infrastructure and promote healthy lifestyles, padel’s prominence is set to grow even further. For those in the UAE looking to join the padel revolution, there has never been a better time to pick up a racket and hit the court.

Sport

Where to Play Tennis in Dubai: The Best Courts to Book Right Now

Fancy yourself the next Federer? Or just looking for a reason to dust off the tennis whites? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or simply tired of volleying a ball off your garage wall, Dubai is home to a wealth of tennis courts where you can serve, swing, and smash your way into the game—all without breaking the bank.

We’ve rounded up the best tennis courts in Dubai that you can book today, complete with pricing, timing, and the lowdown on facilities. Let’s have a ball.

Dubai has many great places to play Tennis

🎾 Al Barsha Pond Park Courts

A serene green space in the city, Al Barsha Pond Park offers great value and a tranquil escape.

Price: AED 85 (per hour)
Timings: 7am–10:30pm daily
Contact: emirates-tennisacademy.com | 050 163 5281

🎾 Al Habtoor Tennis Academy – Polo Club

Play amidst lush polo fields and then unwind at the Horse & Hound pub post-match.

Price: AED 130 (per hour)
Timings: 6am–11am daily
Contact: habtoorpoloresort.com | 04 435 4444

🎾 Al Habtoor Tennis Academy – Al Habtoor City

Choose between indoor or outdoor courts with premium facilities.

Price: AED 225 (outdoor), AED 550 (indoor) per hour
Timings: 6am–11am daily
Contact: emirates-tennisacademy.com | 04 444 1010

🎾 Al Nahda Pond Park Courts

Great for those near the Sharjah border.

Price: AED 90 (per hour)
Timings: 6am–midnight daily
Contact: emirates-tennisacademy.com | 050 163 5281

🎾 Al Nasr LeisureLand

A 48-acre sports complex offering affordable court bookings.

Price: AED 110 (per hour)
Timings: 9am–midnight daily
Contact: alnasrll.com | 04 337 1234

🎾 Athletic Kings Tennis Club

Four shaded courts and available coaching if you want to up your game.

Price: AED 130 (per hour)
Timings: 7am–10:30pm daily
Contact: athletickings.me | 054 375 8584

🎾 Dubai Tennis Academy – Marina

Offering lessons as well as court rentals in a scenic Marina setting.

Price: From AED 180 (30 minutes)
Timings: 10am–7pm daily
Contact: dubaitennisacademy.com | 058 845 0871

🎾 ISD Padel and Tennis – Dubai Sports City

A top-tier facility offering flexible peak and off-peak pricing.

Price: AED 200 (off-peak), AED 160 (peak) per hour
Timings: 7am–midnight (Mon–Fri)
Contact: 052 997 0083

🎾 Mirdif Park Tennis Courts

Great value courts—but limited to two, so book early.

Price: AED 80 (per hour)
Timings: 6am–11pm daily
Contact: emirates-tennisacademy.com | 050 163 5281

Many Hotels in Dubai have their own Tennis Courts

🎾 Satwa Park Tennis Courts

Affordable and family-friendly, with nearby play areas.

Price: AED 80 (per hour)
Timings: 6pm–11pm daily
Contact: emirates-tennisacademy.com | 050 163 5281

🎾 Tennis Three Sixty – Jumeirah Golf Estates

A premium experience with clubhouse access and full facilities.

Price: AED 150 (per hour for non-members)
Timings: 6am–10pm daily
Contact: tennisthreesixty.com | 055 753 7675

🎾 Tennis Three Sixty – Meydan

Championship-grade courts and full-service facilities.

Price: AED 160 (per hour for non-members)
Timings: 6am–10pm daily
Contact: tennisthreesixty.com | 055 753 7675

🎾 Tennis Three Sixty – Safa Club 1

Three full-size courts with on-site showers.

Price: AED 160 (per hour for non-members)
Timings: 6am–10pm daily
Contact: tennisthreesixty.com | 055 753 7675

🎾 Tennis Three Sixty – The Apartments DWTC

Full-size court with racquet rental available.

Price: AED 160 (per hour for non-members)
Timings: 6am–10pm daily
Contact: tennisthreesixty.com | 055 753 7675

🎾 TopSpin Sports Centre

With 10 courts and a pro shop across multiple locations, it’s a top pick for tennis lovers.

Price: AED 140 (per hour)
Timings: Varies by location
Contact: topspin.ae | 050 303 8195

From budget-friendly neighbourhood courts to elite-level tennis academies, Dubai serves up options for everyone. Grab your racket and get booking.

Concerts

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

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.

🎤 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.

Friday, 5 December 2025: Post Malone

On Friday night, get ready for stadium-sized anthems and a back catalogue packed with hits. Post Malone takes over Etihad Park.

The ever-charismatic Post Malone is a seasoned live performer — known for his energetic sets that balance multiple genres with ease.

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.

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.

📍 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 Type	Concert Access
3-Day Race Pass	Access to all 4 concerts
2-Day Race Pass	Access 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sport

Burj2Burj 2025: Dubai’s Most Iconic Half Marathon Returns

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.

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 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.

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

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!

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