Dubai Set to Welcome the First Ever Pickleball Open in 2025

Dubai aims to create regional sporting history when it stages the first-ever Pickleball Open from May 8 to 11, 2025—a significant global tournament signifying pickleball’s professional premiere in the Middle East.

Supported by the Dubai Sports Council, this event is being organized by Sport Spirit Fed (SSF) Events together with Global Sports. The competition will be held at Pickleturf Dubai, which recently opened as the top-notch pickleball destination in the city situated at Port Rashid.

A formal press briefing conducted on May 6 at the headquarters of the Dubai Sports Council assembled key figures from sports, entertainment, and governmental sectors. This event marked the introduction of one of the globe’s most rapidly expanding sports into the UAE.

Khalid Al Awar, who leads communications and marketing at the Dubai Sports Council, stated: "Dubai is reinforcing its role as a worldwide center for athletic prowess. By backing the Pickleball Open 2025, we're adhering to our mission to foster up-and-coming sports and advocate for an energetic, wholesome way of life among various sectors of the community. It’s gratifying to contribute to this trailblazing effort, which symbolizes yet another step forward in the expansion of sports within the emirate."

Global Sports: Leading the pickleball surge

Spearheading the event is India-based Global Sports, a prominent force reshaping the pickleball landscape across South Asia and now extending its reach to the Gulf. The initiative is led by a visionary group of founders — Hemal Jain, Yuvraj Ruia, Shashank Khaitan, Niraj Jain, Suresh Bhansali, and Divyesh Jain — who are committed to propelling pickleball onto the global stage, including aspirations for Olympic inclusion.

Adding star power to the initiative is renowned Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar, who has joined Global Sports as a partner. His involvement bridges the worlds of sport and entertainment, amplifying the tournament’s appeal to a wide-ranging international audience.

Pickleturf Dubai: A home for innovation and inclusion

The complete tournament will take place at Pickleturf Dubai — the UAE’s premier specialized professional pickleball arena — which emerged from a local collaboration between Anam Mirza and Kashif Ali. Tailored for top-tier players as well as eager beginners, Pickleturf provides an exceptional setting within one of Dubai’s most recognizable waterfront locations.

Over 275 athletes hailing from more than 15 nations—such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Iran, Vietnam, and India—are set to participate in this energetic competition, highlighting pickleball’s swift worldwide growth and its welcoming character.

A happening driven by foresight and international experience

The Sport Spirit Fed (SSF) Events, celebrated for hosting premier tennis, cricket, and soccer events throughout the UAE, will be organizing this tournament led by Mohammad Saif. Known for their outstanding track record, SSF aims to present an exceptional rendition of the Pickleball Open.

A far-reaching outlook for the area

Looking ahead, Global Sports has announced plans to develop three international Pickleball IPs based in Dubai, focusing on tourism, youth engagement, and international competitiveness. The goal: to position Dubai as a year-round destination for pickleball and a major contributor to the sport’s global growth.

As the tournament begins tomorrow, Dubai is prepared to host the globe for an event showcasing athletic prowess, cultural exchange, and innovative spirit. The Pickleball Open 2025 isn’t just a contest; it marks the start of a new movement.