4 exciting sporting events to look forward to in Abu Dhabi in 2025
Ready, set, compete…
Abu Dhabi is set to host a thrilling lineup of world-class events for the remainder of the year, and if sporting events are your thing, here’s a few to add to the line-up.
Here are 4 exciting sporting events taking place in Abu Dhabi in 2025
UFC Fight Night
UFC Fight Night is making an electrifying return to the capital for a second edition this summer. The headliner on the fight card for the night is a middleweight bout between No 5 – ranked Aussie Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder of the Netherlands. Other confirmed fights include Russian Nikita Krylov vs Uzbek Bogdan Guskov in the light heavyweight class. Ramazan Temirov will take on Almaty-based Asu Almabayev in flyweights, and Turkish Ibo Aslan will meet Billy Elekana of the US in a light heavyweight bout that is expected to produce some serious fireworks. Book your seats to see all the action now on etihadarena.ae
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Cost: Tickets from Dhs195
When: Saturday, July 26
Contact: (600) 511115
NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ
New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns pictured with basketball
The NBA is making a slam dunk return to the capital this October. The NBA Abu Dhabi Games will see the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers face off in two action-packed preseason games at Etihad Arena on Thursday, October 2, and October 4. The Knicks come armed with stars like Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Mikal Bridges, all of whom have made waves with USA Basketball in previous Abu Dhabi appearances. But they’ll have stiff competition in the 76ers, who are bringing the heat with Joel Embiid, the 2023 MVP, plus Paul George and rising star Tyrese Maxey. Expect high-energy showdowns, jaw-dropping plays, and plenty of fanfare. Can’t wait to see high-flying action? Tickets are officially on sale now via etihadarena.ae and ticketmaster.ae.
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Cost: Tickets from Dhs295
When: 8pm, October 2 and 4
Contact: (600) 511115
UFC 321
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Craving more in-ring action after UFC Fight Night takes place? Snap up tickets to see the UFC 321 action when it heads to the capital on Friday, October 25. The event forms the centerpiece of Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, a city-wide celebration of mixed martial arts and high-energy events. The fight card is still under wraps; but past Abu Dhabi events have brought some of the biggest names in the sport to the Octagon, and we’re expecting more of the same this year. General sale opens on Friday, July 25, and fans are encouraged to register their interest here for the best chance to secure seats.
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Cost: TBC, but registrations currently open
When: October 25
Contact: (600) 511115
Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024
Arguably Abu Dhabi’s biggest weekend of the year, the 2025 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be held from December 4 to 7 at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi this year. It is the final race of the F1 season before the drivers race off into the sunset for a much-needed winter break. We are now halfway through the season, and we all are wondering if the McLaren domination will continue until the very end or if the Papayas will start to take each other out in a bid to be the Champion of the World. No matter what happens, the final race here in Abu Dhabi is sure to have us on the edge of our seats. After the adrenaline-pumping action on the tracks, Formula 1 fans can either retreat back home, but… why would you when there are some cool after-race concerts to catch? This year, we are treated to some huge superstars, including Metallica, Katy Perry, Post Malone, and Benson Boone. Do note, to see the after-race concerts, you will need a ticket to the races. Read our guide to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix here.
Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island (race) and Etihad Park (after-race concerts)
Cost: Tickets now available from Dhs2,350
When: December 4 to 7
Contact: 800 927
Images: Supplied
