Basketball fans in the United Arab Emirates and across the GCC region have reason to celebrate: the NBA is returning to Abu Dhabi.

This October, two high-profile pre-season matchups featuring the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers.

Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)

Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Returning once again for the fourth year, to the capital of the United Arab Emirates, the now annual NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 will be presented by the Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company known as ADQ and are set to take place on Thursday, October 2 and Saturday, October 4, at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island.

Marking the fourth consecutive year the league has brought elite basketball action to the UAE capital, this is set to be an all out baller game. The Knicks will arrive in the Middle East ready for a basketball battle, with a stacked lineup including Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Mikal Bridges — all of whom have previously played in Abu Dhabi as part of Team USA or past NBA events. The 76ers will counter this team with Joel Embiid, the 2023 NBA MVP, alongside Paul George and rising star Tyrese Maxey, promising fans two nights of electrifying competition.

The NBA Abu Dhabi Games are part of a broader collaboration between the NBA and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). Since 2022, this sports centric partnership has delivered youth development programs, NBA Cares initiatives, and interactive fan events that have reached nearly 20,000 participants. The 2025 edition will continue that momentum with fan zones, appearances by NBA legends, and immersive basketball experiences across Yas Island.

The games will be broadcast live in over 200 countries and territories, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global hub for sport and entertainment. With support from partners including ADQ, Emirates, Nike, and Gatorade, the event is poised to be one of the region’s most anticipated sporting spectacles.

NBA Abu Dhabi 2

NBA Abu Dhabi 1

How Do I Get Tickets?

Good news for sports fans as tickets are already on sale for this basketball showcase.

Available now through both the Ticketmaster UAE website, ticket prices start from Dhs 295. And for fans seeking a premium experience, NBA Experiences offers exclusive packages that include VIP access, hospitality, and curated travel options.

Buy your tickets here

NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025
Thursday October 2 and Saturday October 4, 2025
Tickets are available now and prices start from Dhs295
Buy your tickets here

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