Abu Dhabi is preparing to host the fourth edition of the NBA Games Abu Dhabi 2025 presented by ADQ, set for Thursday 2nd October and Saturday 4th October 2025 at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island. These pre-season fixtures will see the New York Knicks face off against the Philadelphia 76ers, continuing a growing tradition of NBA action in the UAE capital. Over the past four years, the games have become a cornerstone of the NBA’s international presence, combining elite basketball with a wide range of fan and youth engagement activities.
H.E. Saleh Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, described the event as a key part of the emirate’s sporting vision:
“Hosting The NBA Abu Dhabi Games for a fourth consecutive year reflects our strategic commitment to growing basketball and empowering youth in the UAE and the region.”
Venue & Attendance
The Etihad Arena, one of the most modern indoor venues in the region, has hosted numerous international events since opening in 2021. For basketball, it accommodates up to 12,000 fans, with previous editions of the NBA Games drawing capacity crowds. Notably, a Team USA match against Australia in 2024 attracted over 12,000 spectators, highlighting the growing appetite for basketball in the Middle East.
Teams Involved
The Knicks will bring a core group that includes Karl-Anthony Towns, a five-time All-Star, along with playmaker Jalen Brunson and defensive specialist Mikal Bridges. Both Brunson and Bridges are already familiar with Abu Dhabi, having played there with Team USA in 2023. Towns also featured in Abu Dhabi that year during the NBA Games as part of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The 76ers, meanwhile, are expected to field Joel Embiid, the 2023–24 NBA MVP, alongside veteran All-Star Paul George and rising guard Tyrese Maxey, who made his first All-Star appearance in 2024. Embiid also took part in Team USA’s Abu Dhabi visit prior to the Paris Olympics, making this another return to a venue he knows well.
According to Leon Rose, President of the New York Knicks, “It’s an exciting moment for the organisation to participate in The NBA Abu Dhabi Games. This will serve as a strong way to tip off our 2025–26 season and give our players a chance to grow the game internationally.”
Squad Announcements
While final team line-ups will be confirmed closer to the games, both franchises have indicated that their headline players will be present. Towns, Brunson, Bridges, Embiid, George, and Maxey are all expected to feature.
These matchups will give both teams an opportunity to refine strategies ahead of the new season while providing fans with a rare opportunity to witness elite NBA competition live.
Community & Youth Engagement
The 2025 event builds on a strong foundation of outreach. Since 2022, NBA activities in the region have reached nearly 20,000 young people. This year’s Jr. NBA Week will involve over 7,000 participants and 450 coaches, offering training sessions led by assistant coaches from both teams.
Other events include NBA Cares community outreach initiatives and a live NBA 2K League esports showcase, all designed to connect with fans and develop basketball culture at grassroots level.
Event Flow & Fan Activities
The on-court action will be accompanied by an array of fan-focused events:
- NBA Fan Appreciation Day on 3rd October, including slam dunk and three-point contests, as well as appearances by current and former NBA/WNBA players.
- NBA District from 1st to 4th October, a family-friendly zone featuring a regulation court, memorabilia, interactive games, and the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
Josh Harris, Managing Partner of the Philadelphia 76ers, said: “Bringing the Philadelphia 76ers to Abu Dhabi is an incredible opportunity to connect with new fans. We’re proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to engaging with the vibrant local community.”
ES Sport’s Tickets and Hospitality Packages
ES Sport is proud to be the official reseller for the NBA Games Abu Dhabi 2025. Ticket options range from Category 7(AED 750) to Category 4 (AED 3,300), with VIP and hotel-inclusive packages also available.
Highlights include:
- Instant electronic ticket delivery
- Family-friendly seating
- Custom hospitality options for individuals, groups, and corporate clients
Khalid Abdulnasser Almaflahi, of DCT Abu Dhabi, commented, “ES Sport was selected as an official NBA Abu Dhabi reseller due to their exceptional track record in delivering high-quality sports experiences. Our goal is to provide fans with the ultimate NBA experience, complete with a rich program of activities and events organised around the tip-off. ES Sport fully embodies this ambition, making them the perfect partner to enhance this landmark event.”
With demand expected to exceed supply, early booking is recommended to secure the best seats.
Please visit: https://www.es-sport.ae/sports-experience/nba-games-abu-dhabi-2025/
What to Expect
The NBA Abu Dhabi Games started in 2022 with the Hawks vs Bucks, followed by Timberwolves vs Mavericks in 2023, and Celtics vs Nuggets in 2024. These annual fixtures have drawn increasing crowds and media attention, cementing Abu Dhabi’s position on the global basketball map.
Fans can expect two competitive matches as both teams sharpen their line-ups for the regular season. Key questions include:
- How quickly can Brunson, Towns and Bridges establish on-court chemistry?
- Will Embiid lead the 76ers with his trademark dominance?
Off the court, the atmosphere will be shaped by immersive fan activations and community-led experiences that reflect both local culture and the global appeal of the NBA.
Key Information at a Glance
The Knicks and 76ers will meet on 2nd and 4th October 2025 at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Games will feature star players, community programming and a schedule of events including NBA District, Jr. NBA Week, and Fan Appreciation Day.
Ticket prices range from AED 750 to AED 3,300, and ES Sport offers packages tailored for families, VIPs and groups.
