Get ready, Abu Dhabi and basketball fans across the region! The National Basketball Association (NBA) is set to make a thrilling return to the UAE capital in October 2025 for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ. Building on the success of previous editions, this event is part of a multi-year partnership between the NBA and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), solidifying Abu Dhabi's position as a major hub for international sporting events. This year's edition features a highly anticipated clash between two iconic NBA franchises: the two-time NBA Champion New York Knicks and the three-time NBA Champion Philadelphia 76ers. They are scheduled to play two preseason games right here in Abu Dhabi. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 2nd, and Saturday, October 4th, 2025, with tip-off scheduled for 6:00 PM GST on both nights. The venue for this high-octane basketball action will be the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena, located on Yas Island. This magnificent venue has previously hosted successful NBA games and is perfectly equipped to provide a world-class experience for fans and players alike. Fans will have the chance to see some of the league's biggest stars up close. The New York Knicks roster currently boasts two-time NBA All-Star Jalen Brunson, five-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns, and 2022 NBA All-Defensive First Team member Mikal Bridges. Notably, Karl-Anthony Towns is no stranger to the Abu Dhabi hardwood, having participated in the NBA Abu Dhabi Games in 2023 as a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Across the court, the Philadelphia 76ers bring their own formidable lineup, featuring the reigning 2023 Kia NBA Most Valuable Player and seven-time NBA All-Star Joel Embiid, alongside nine-time NBA All-Star Paul George, and the electrifying 2024 NBA All-Star Tyrese Maxey. The star power on display promises two unforgettable nights of basketball excellence. The NBA Abu Dhabi Games are more than just preseason matchups; they represent a significant effort by the NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi to grow the game of basketball in the Middle East. These games provide fans in the region with unprecedented access to the NBA experience, showcasing the league's top talent and fostering a deeper connection with the sport. The continued commitment through this partnership underscores the strategic importance of Abu Dhabi as a global destination for sports and entertainment. As part of the broader NBA Abu Dhabi Games initiative, fans can expect additional events around the games, such as fan zones, interactive experiences, and community outreach programs, further engaging the local population and visitors. These activities aim to bring the excitement of the NBA off the court and create a festival-like atmosphere surrounding the main event. Attending these games is a unique opportunity to witness NBA history being made in the heart of the UAE. The energy of the crowd at Etihad Arena combined with the skill and athleticism of the Knicks and 76ers stars will create an electric atmosphere that no basketball fan will want to miss. The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ featuring the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers is set to be a landmark event, highlighting Abu Dhabi's capabilities as a premier host city for global sports and bringing world-class basketball entertainment to the doorstep of millions of fans in the Middle East and beyond. Get ready for the ultimate NBA showdown!

Buy Tickets
• October 02, 2025
• Etihad Arena