UAE Netball Cup 2025: A Landmark Event in Dubai’s Sports Calendar
Dubai is set to immerse itself in the world of netball as it welcomes six of the globe’s top emerging nations for the inaugural UAE Netball Cup 2025. Taking place from June 15–21 at Al Nasr Club’s Sports Hall, this tournament promises to be a groundbreaking event in the ever-expanding sporting landscape of the UAE.
A Collaborative Effort
The UAE Netball Cup is hosted by the UAE Netball Federation, in collaboration with Falcon and Associates along with the Dubai Sports Council. Significant support comes from Dubai Holding Community Management (DHCM), the title sponsor. This partnership illustrates DHCM’s commitment to promoting wellbeing and active lifestyles throughout Dubai’s communities while aiding the advancement of women’s netball on an international level. Through this sponsorship, DHCM intends to foster a communal spirit and empower youth, embodying its vision of creating vibrant, wellness-driven environments.
The Teams and the Competition Format
The competition features an electrifying lineup of national teams: the UAE, ranked 23rd; the Republic of Ireland at 18th; Singapore at 19th; Namibia at 20th; Kenya at 25th; and the USA at 30th. Each team sits within the top 30 of the World Netball standings, leading to expectations of a fiercely contested tournament.
The format is round-robin, with three matches scheduled each day from June 15-17 and June 19-20. This structure sets the stage for an action-packed week, culminating in a thrilling finals day on June 21, where teams will vie for podium positions.
Voices from the Field
Susanne Skelding, the Founder of Active Netball and a leading advocate for the sport’s development in the region, expressed her excitement, stating, “We are incredibly proud to see Dubai host its first-ever World Netball-recognised event. The standard of competition will be fierce, with just a few ranking places separating each team.” She emphasized the significance of playing on home soil, especially for the UAE Falcons, offering fans a unique opportunity to witness high-caliber netball firsthand.
Francis Giani, the Chief Community Management Officer at DHCM, echoed this sentiment, noting that sport has a remarkable ability to unify communities. “Our support for the UAE Netball Cup is more than a sponsorship; it’s an expression of our values,” he said. Giani highlighted the importance of championing women and bringing communities together through sport.
The UAE Falcons: Rising Stars
The UAE Falcons, currently ranked 23rd, are entering the tournament with a dynamic and diverse squad. This lineup features a mix of seasoned players and promising talents from the U17 and U21 national development pathways. The Falcons enjoy the advantage of playing on home ground, supported by passionate local fans who are eager to cheer them on. This tournament represents not only a chance for the team to elevate their international standing but also a moment to solidify netball’s growth in the UAE.
A Milestone for Netball in the UAE
As a World Netball-sanctioned event, the UAE Netball Cup marks a pivotal step for the sport in the region. It reflects an increased competitive spirit and the sport’s expanding reach within the Middle East. The tournament adds a fresh and exhilarating dimension to Dubai’s burgeoning calendar of international sporting events.
The Supportive Network
In addition to DHCM, several official partners have joined the UAE Netball Cup as sponsors, including The Entertainer, Cognita Schools, Rove Hotels, Dubai Duty Free, and Mediclinic Middle East. Their involvement signifies a collective recognition of the event’s significance and a shared commitment to enhancing community engagement through sports.
As the excitement builds for the UAE Netball Cup 2025, it’s clear that this tournament not only represents athletic prowess but also serves as a testament to the UAE’s vibrant sporting community and its dedication to fostering growth in women’s sports.
