The excitement is palpable as the Dubai Premier Padel P1 returns from November 9th to 16th at the Hamdan Sports Complex. After its highly successful inaugural event in 2024, which attracted an impressive 24,000 spectators, early bird tickets for the second edition are already flying off the shelves. Enthusiasts eager to witness this electric tournament can secure their spots now.
Reflecting the sport’s rising popularity in the UAE, organizers Gallop Global have moved the tournament venue from the 5,000-capacity Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium to the expansive Hamdan Sports Complex, which can accommodate up to 15,000 attendees. Spanning 24 hectares, this venue is the largest indoor sports complex in the Middle East and ranks among the top globally.
The complex is set to feature four match courts and two practice courts, making it a record-holder for indoor padel capacity in the UAE. Notably, the centre court will host over 7,000 spectators, and ticket holders will enjoy free access to all other courts, promising a more engaging experience for fans. The venue is climate-controlled and designed for maximum viewer comfort.
Tickets are now available for purchase through Platinumlist.com, with general admission starting at a budget-friendly AED36. The tournament not only highlights the growing interest in padel but also emphasizes its significance on the regional sporting calendar. This year’s prize budget has seen a boost from AED1.96 million to AED1.98 million, showcasing the increasing investment in the sport.
Fans can expect to see elite players taking part, including the reigning world number one women’s pair, Ari Sanchez and Paula Josemaria, along with top men’s duo Arturo Coello and Agustin Tapia. Their participation adds a layer of excitement to an already thrilling event.
Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Padel Association (UAEPA), expressed enthusiasm about the tournament, stating, “The launch of the Dubai Premier Padel P1 in 2024 was a historic milestone for the sport, which has rapidly grown in popularity in the UAE. We eagerly anticipate the second edition coming to the emirate in November, and from the UAEPA we are proud to support the biggest tournament in our country.”
Adding to this sentiment, Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, remarked, “The return of Dubai Premier Padel P1 underscores the sport’s growing prominence in the region and worldwide. We look forward to welcoming even more spectators in what is certain to be a vibrant atmosphere at Hamdan Sports Complex.”
This event is particularly significant as it marks the Hamdan Sports Complex’s first official padel tournament. The venue is no stranger to hosting prestigious sports events, having previously welcomed competitions in basketball, badminton, swimming, tennis, volleyball, and water polo.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), commented on the economic impact of hosting such events: “Hosting major sporting events like Dubai Premier Padel P1 significantly boosts Dubai’s economy and supports the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The move to a world-class venue will further elevate the experience for athletes and spectators alike.”
Ivan Modia, Tournament Director and CEO of Gallop Global, added, “Padel is a global phenomenon. After a strong first edition and with continued support from our partners and leadership, we are confident of delivering a landmark second edition in the largest padel court ever built in the country.”
The UAE Padel Association (UAEPA), which was founded in 2014 and recognized as one of Asia’s first federations, has played a crucial role in promoting the sport. In the same year, padel was officially recognized as a sport by the General Authority of Sports, ensuring full government support. Two years later, the UAEPA became a member of the International Padel Federation (FIP). Today, the UAE boasts around 1,000 padel courts, accounting for approximately 30% of all padel courts in Asia and 2% worldwide.
During the week-long championship, attendees can anticipate not only thrilling matches but also engaging off-court activities, making the Dubai Premier Padel P1 a complete experience for sports fans.
