Dubai Media Secures EuroLeague Broadcast Rights: A Game-Changer for Basketball in MENA
A Historic Deal for Basketball Fans
In a significant move that marks the growth of basketball in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Dubai Media has announced a partnership with Euroleague Basketball to broadcast the prestigious EuroLeague for the next five seasons. This collaboration brings high-quality basketball, including all games featuring the debutants Dubai Basketball Club, directly to fans across the region through the flagship Dubai Sports TV channel on a free-to-air basis.
The Role of IMG
The groundbreaking agreement was facilitated by IMG, an international sports and entertainment agency that has been instrumental in Euroleague Basketball’s commercial rights distribution for years. By leveraging IMG’s expertise, the deal not only enhances the visibility of the EuroLeague but also showcases Dubai’s increasing influence as a hub for international sports.
Broadcasting All Eyes on Dubai Basketball Club
One of the standout elements of this deal is the spotlight it shines on Dubai Basketball Club. As the first team from outside of Europe to enter the semi-closed league, Dubai BC’s inclusion is groundbreaking. This season introduces a reshaped format, now featuring 20 teams, which adds even more excitement for local fans. As part of this setup, Dubai Sports TV will broadcast not only the games of Dubai BC but also a curated selection of the week’s top fixtures, including matches featuring other global basketball powerhouses.
New Entrants and Established Rivals
In addition to Dubai BC, the EuroLeague welcomes other new entrants this season, including Israel’s Hapoel Tel Aviv and Spain’s Valencia Basket. Fans can also expect to enjoy thrilling matches involving established teams like Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and reigning champions Fenerbahçe. This diverse mix of teams ensures there will be something for every basketball enthusiast in the region.
Looking Ahead: Season Kickoff
The 2025–26 EuroLeague season is set to tip off on September 30, marking an exciting new chapter for basketball in Dubai. Fans are eagerly anticipating Dubai BC’s first game at the Coca-Cola Arena against Serbia’s Partizan Belgrade. The arena promises to be an electrifying venue, setting the stage for unforgettable basketball moments.
Expanding EuroLeague’s Reach
Euroleague Basketball’s agreement with Dubai Media is part of a broader strategy to expand its footprint in new markets. The previous season saw the EuroLeague Final Four staged in Abu Dhabi, underscoring the increasing relevance of the MENA region in the world of sports. Paulius Motiejunas, the CEO of Euroleague Basketball, expressed gratitude towards the Dubai Sports Council and Dubai Media for their commitment to making EuroLeague accessible to a wider audience.
Enhancing Fan Experience
Motiejunas highlighted that the partnership aligns with EuroLeague’s strategic goals to create opportunities for more fans to experience high-stakes competition. The dedication to maintaining high broadcast standards ensures that viewers in the MENA region can enjoy top-tier basketball as if they were courtside.
Previous Partnership Developments
Earlier this year, Euroleague Basketball extended its global reach through a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism. IMG has also secured several rights deals for the competition, reinforcing its position in key markets like Spain and Italy, showcasing the growing interest in European basketball.
A Promising Future
The commissioning of Dubai Sports TV to broadcast EuroLeague games signifies an exciting era for basketball in the MENA region. With an ever-growing fan base and enhanced access to top-tier basketball, the future looks bright for both Dubai Basketball Club and the EuroLeague in this rapidly evolving landscape.
This structured approach offers a comprehensive look at the implications of Dubai Media’s exclusive broadcast rights to EuroLeague, emphasizing the significance of this partnership for the basketball community in the MENA region.
