Dubai Basketball Club Joins EuroLeague: A Historic First for the Arab World

Photo: Government of Dubai Media Office

Dubai has made history once again! Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, has officially announced that the Dubai Basketball Club will compete in the EuroLeague starting from the 2025–2026 season.

This is a huge achievement not only for Dubai but for the entire Arab world, as it marks the first time a team from the Gulf region will take part in Europe’s most prestigious basketball tournament.

What Is the EuroLeague?

The EuroLeague is the top-level basketball league in Europe, featuring legendary clubs like:

• Real Madrid (Spain)

• FC Barcelona (Spain)

• Olympiacos (Greece)

• Fenerbahçe (Türkiye)

The league is watched by millions of fans worldwide and is known for its high level of competition, with many former NBA stars and international talents playing each season. By joining this league, Dubai Basketball Club is stepping onto a truly global stage.

Rapid Growth of Dubai Basketball Club

Dubai Basketball Club is still new — it was founded in 2023 — but it has already made a strong impact. During the 2024–25 season, the team played in the ABA League, a regional tournament, and reached the semi-finals, finishing in third place.

This impressive performance helped the team earn a special five-year license to join the EuroLeague, starting in September 2025 and continuing until the 2029–2030 season. This makes them the first non-European team (except for Israel) to enter the EuroLeague.

A Diverse and Talented Team

Dubai Basketball Club has built a powerful and diverse team, with players from:

• UAE

• USA

• Serbia

• France

• Türkiye

• And more

The team is coached by Jurica Golemac, an experienced leader with a coaching license from FIBA, the global basketball federation. Under his guidance, the club is set to face world-class teams and grow even stronger.

Home Games at Coca-Cola Arena

All home games will be played at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, a state-of-the-art stadium with a seating capacity of 15,000 to 17,000 fans. Basketball lovers in Dubai and beyond can buy tickets online from the Coca-Cola Arena’s official website and cheer for their team in person.

Key Dates and What to Expect

• First EuroLeague match: 30 September 2025

• Season ends: 24 May 2026

The upcoming season will bring world-class basketball to Dubai. This is not just about one team — it’s about putting Dubai on the map as a hub for global sports, and inspiring the next generation of young athletes in the UAE and the region.

Why This Is a Big Win for Dubai and UAE Sports

This move shows how committed Dubai is to investing in sports and supporting youth talent. By joining the EuroLeague, Dubai opens up new opportunities for local players, coaches, and fans to learn, grow, and connect with the global basketball community.

It’s also a smart way to promote the UAE as a world-class destination for major international events in sports, tourism, and entertainment.

Stay Updated

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This is a proud moment for Dubai — and a new chapter for Arab basketball on the world stage. Let’s support our team as they make history!