NBA Returns to Abu Dhabi for Preseason Games in October

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced on Thursday that the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers will play two preseason games in Abu Dhabi on October 2 and 4. This will mark the fourth consecutive year the league has hosted preseason games in the Persian Gulf city.

A key element of the NBA’s global expansion strategy, the Abu Dhabi Games 2025 highlight the league’s partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, an alliance established in 2021. The venue for the games will be Etihad Arena on Yas Island, a popular destination for sports events.

The Knicks, featuring NBA All-Stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, will face off against the 76ers, who have superstar Joel Embiid, during these contests. Both teams are looking to excite local fans as they tip off their preseason activities.

George Aivazoglou, NBA managing director for Europe and the Middle East, emphasized the significance of the games, stating, “Fans in Abu Dhabi will have the opportunity to see two of the NBA’s historic franchises when the Knicks and 76ers face off in October. We look forward to engaging fans and aspiring players from the local community and across the region for the fourth consecutive year, through our games and surrounding events.”

In addition to Abu Dhabi, the NBA plans to hold games in China and Australia as part of next season’s preseason schedule. This year’s lineup includes matches in Melbourne against Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix, marking the first time an NBA team will compete in Australia.

The Knicks and 76ers will provide an interactive fan experience through special ticket packages that include premium access and VIP opportunities. More details on ticket sales will be released soon. Meanwhile, the collaboration between the NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi also includes youth programming and an exhibition event featuring current and former NBA and WNBA players.

“Hosting The NBA Abu Dhabi Games for a fourth consecutive year reflects our strategic commitment to growing basketball in the UAE and the region,” said Saleh Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi. “We are thrilled to welcome two of the NBA’s most iconic teams.”

As the excitement builds for the upcoming games, fans can register for updates and access the widest selection of official NBA merchandise in the region at the NBA Store in Yas Mall.