### Dubai Welcomes the Inaugural UAE Netball Cup 2025
Dubai is buzzing with anticipation as it prepares to host the UAE Netball Cup 2025, a groundbreaking tournament set to take place at Al Nasr Club’s Sports Hall from June 15 to 21. This prestigious event is a significant milestone for netball in the UAE and will showcase six of the world’s top emerging netball nations. It reflects the country’s growing investment in women’s sports and commitment to fostering a vibrant sporting community.
### A Competitive Lineup
The competition will see national teams from the UAE, the Republic of Ireland, Singapore, Namibia, Kenya, and the USA, all of which are ranked among the top 30 teams globally. The UAE Falcons, currently positioned 23rd in the world, will be facing formidable opponents such as the Republic of Ireland at 18th, Singapore at 19th, Namibia at 20th, Kenya at 25th, and the USA at 30th. Each team is separated by just a few ranking places, which promises an exhilarating week filled with intense matches and fierce competition as they vie for glory on the international stage.
### Round-Robin Format and Finals
The tournament will feature a round-robin format, with three matches scheduled daily from June 15 to 17 and June 19 to 20. This will lead to a thrilling finals day on June 21, where the teams will battle it out for the chance to ascend to the podium. This format ensures that every match is crucial, keeping the excitement alive for both players and fans alike.
### Voices from the Field
Susanne Skelding, Founder of Active Netball, emphasizes the significance of this event, stating, “We are incredibly proud to see Dubai host its first-ever World Netball-recognized event. The standard of competition will be fierce, with just a few ranking places separating each team.” She further notes that for the UAE Falcons, competing on home soil against global challengers is a momentous occasion, providing fans an opportunity to witness world-class netball.
### Community and Wellbeing
Francis Giani, Chief Community Management Officer at Dubai Holding Community Management (DHCM), reiterates the importance of sport in creating community bonds and enhancing wellbeing: “At DHCM, we believe that sport is a powerful unifier. It builds bonds, boosts wellbeing, and creates moments that communities remember.” As the title sponsor of the UAE Netball Cup, DHCM is committed to supporting initiatives that foster wellness and social connection through sports.
### The UAE Falcons’ Journey
The UAE Falcons are entering the tournament with a dynamic squad that blends experienced leadership with promising talent emerging from the nation’s U17 and U21 development pathways. With home-court advantage and passionate local support, they are geared towards making a landmark performance that will resonate with fans. This tournament offers the Falcons a significant opportunity not only to improve their international ranking but also to highlight the rapid growth of netball in the UAE.
### Milestones for Netball in the UAE
This event is more than just a sports competition; it represents a pivotal moment for netball in the UAE. Recognized by World Netball, the UAE Netball Cup positions the sport firmly on the international stage, illustrating its increasing competitiveness and expanding reach within the Middle East. The league’s history in the UAE spans over four decades, but the establishment of the UAE Netball Federation in 2017 marked a turning point in formalizing the sport’s governance and development.
### Partners Joining the Initiative
Alongside DHCM, several partners support this inaugural event, including The Entertainer, Cognita Schools, Rove Hotels, Dubai Duty Free, and Mediclinic Middle East. Their involvement underscores a collective commitment to promoting women’s sports and vibrant community engagement in Dubai.
### The Growth of Netball in the Region
Under the stewardship of the UAE Netball Federation, the sport has evolved significantly in the last decade. Initiatives like Active Netball have been critical in creating structured leagues and empowering players across all age levels. Since becoming a member of Europe Netball and World Netball, the UAE has gained the right to compete at both U17 and senior levels internationally. The federation’s ongoing work aims to broaden opportunities for young athletes, making netball accessible and enjoyable for all.
### A New Chapter in Dubai’s Sporting Calendar
With the UAE Netball Cup, Dubai adds a new and exciting fixture to its expanding calendar of international sporting events. This initiative not only enhances the local sports culture but also serves as an inviting platform for international competitors, fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and competition. The event is set to inspire future generations of athletes, promoting a legacy of health, unity, and excellence through sport.
