Sport Industry Forum 2025: A Premier Gathering in Abu Dhabi
The highly anticipated Sport Industry Forum is set to return to Abu Dhabi on October 1-2, 2025. This year’s edition promises to be the most ambitious yet, taking place at the newly renovated Yas Conference Centre within the Yas Marina Circuit. The Forum aims to unite key figures from government, sports, and business sectors to collaboratively shape the future of the sports industry in the Middle East. For anyone involved in sports or interested in investment opportunities in the region, this event is a must-attend.
Why You Should Attend the Sport Industry Forum
Established in 2014, the Sport Industry Forum was designed to address a significant need: a dedicated space for sports leaders in the Middle East to connect and foster growth within the industry. “In 2014, there was no platform in the region where decision-makers in sport could come together,” explained Sally Corander, the Forum’s founder. “We aimed to create meaningful dialogue and develop proactive solutions that not only discuss the future of sport here but actively shape it.”
What began as a small gathering focused on the UAE has evolved into a global event that attracts over 450 senior leaders each year. The Forum has gained a reputation as a vital platform for making announcements, shaping policies, and forming partnerships, solidifying its status as an essential event for anyone involved in the regional sports landscape.
Milestones and Memorable Moments
The Forum has a rich history of significant moments, including the exclusive unveiling of the UAE National Sports Strategy in 2023. Notable interviews, such as those with NBA executives Cynt Marshall and Ethan Casson, have captivated audiences, evoking laughter and tears alike. H.E. Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, remarked that an early edition of the Forum “exceeded expectations,” a sentiment that has set a high standard for subsequent events.
Action-Oriented Discussions
What sets the Sport Industry Forum apart from other gatherings is its focus on actionable outcomes. Attendees gain unparalleled access to influential figures and innovative ideas that are shaping the sports landscape in the Middle East. The discussions often lead to collaborations that range from grassroots initiatives to major sponsorship deals and investment strategies.
As the organizers emphasize, “The Forum isn’t about theory – it’s where relationships turn into partnerships and conversations turn into impact.” This commitment to action is what makes the Forum a unique and valuable experience for all participants.
2025 Edition: A Blend of Global Voices and Regional Insights
The upcoming 2025 edition promises a diverse lineup of speakers, including:
- Alexis Ohanian, Co-Founder of Reddit and Founding Owner of Angel City FC
- John Terry, Former Captain of Chelsea FC and England
- Robbie Fowler, Former Liverpool FC and England striker
- H.E. Ghanim Al Hajeri, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Sports
- Kelly Flatow, EVP Global Events at NBA
- Danny Townsend, CEO of SURJ Sports Investment
- Andrew Thompson, Managing Director of SailGP
- Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
- Tad Brown, CEO of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (Philadelphia 76ers)
- Jamaal Lesane, COO of Madison Square Garden Sports (New York Knicks)
Sessions will delve into pressing opportunities within the region, covering topics such as Saudi Arabia’s sports investment strategy, advancements in technology and equity in women’s sports, leadership lessons from elite athletes, and case studies from renowned global properties like the NBA and SailGP.
Beyond the Forum: Lasting Impact
The Forum’s parent organization, Interact, ensures that the discussions and insights gained during the event extend beyond the two-day gathering. The knowledge shared will contribute to community health programs, strategic partnerships, and long-term initiatives aimed at promoting physical activity throughout the region, effectively transforming conversation into tangible change.
Networking Opportunities with Purpose
In addition to the rich content, attendees will have exclusive networking opportunities, including a Padel Networking Evening on September 30 and a reception at Yas Marina Circuit. These events are designed to foster connections that can lead to meaningful collaborations.
Support from Key Partners
The 2025 Forum is once again backed by the Department of Culture & Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the Department of Community Development, and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Official partners include Ethara and OVG Middle East, with the Yas Conference Centre providing a state-of-the-art venue for this year’s discussions.
