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The New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers are set to hit the court at Etihad Arena on Yas Island for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, part of an ongoing series that has transformed the city into a leading global destination for sport and entertainment.
The two-game series, scheduled for October 2 and 4, promises high-calibre matchups featuring NBA stars Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey for the Sixers, and Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges for the Knicks. For fans in the region, it’s a rare chance to see some of the league’s most influential players live, under the lights of one of the Middle East’s premier arenas.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of the NBA’s presence in the UAE, a result of a long-term collaboration between the league and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). Since launching in 2022, the partnership has expanded to include youth development programmes that have reached nearly 20,000 participants, NBA Cares community clinics, 2K League showcases, and immersive fan activations across the capital.
“Hosting The NBA Abu Dhabi Games for a fourth year reflects our strategic commitment to growing basketball and empowering youth in the UAE and the region,” says H.E. Saleh Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi. “We’re thrilled to welcome two of the NBA’s most iconic teams to Abu Dhabi.”
The Knicks see the event as a way to set the tone for their 2025–26 season. “It’s an exciting moment for our entire organisation,” says Knicks President Leon Rose. “This gives our players a unique opportunity to connect with international fans and represent the sport we love on a global stage.” Josh Harris, Managing Partner of the 76ers, adds, “We’re committed to creating unforgettable experiences for our fans worldwide and look forward to engaging with the vibrant community in the UAE.”
Ticket details are expected soon, with fans invited to register at nba.com/abudhabi and access premium packages through nbaexperiences.com. These include hospitality access, front-row seats and hotel stays designed for those looking to experience the event at its highest level.
The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 will be broadcast live across more than 200 countries and territories — yet for those in the UAE, the action is unfolding right on their doorstep. As the Knicks and Sixers prepare to square off in the capital, the city’s sporting credentials grow stronger, with each play, pass and dunk adding to Abu Dhabi’s expanding global narrative.