Seven things to do at next week’s Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026
Tickets for the city’s annual WTA 1000 and ATP 500 tournaments are on sale now
DUBAI – With just six days to go until the start of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the city is preparing for its annual fortnight of world-class tennis, packed stands and a lively off-court atmosphere at Al Garhoud.
From Grand Slam champions to family-friendly experiences, here are seven reasons the Championships should already be in your diary.
1. See new Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina return home
Fresh from lifting the Australian Open trophy last week, Dubai resident Elena Rybakina returns “home” as one of the headline names of this year’s Championships.
Having relocated to the emirate in 2024, the former finalist arrives in top form and with strong local support, offering fans the chance to see a reigning Grand Slam champion at the height of her powers.
2. Explore the side courts for a closer view of the action
While Centre Court hosts ticketed matches from early morning until late evening, the side courts also feature elite competition and are free to access via registration. In recent years, Courts 1 and 2 have seen players such as World No5 Coco Gauff and 2021 Australian Open semi-finalist Aslan Karatsev, alongside leading doubles specialists including Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi and Sania Mirza. A wide range of food and beverage options across the venue makes for an accessible and action-packed day out.
3. Watch the world’s top 20 women compete
The WTA 1000 event runs from February 15 to 21 and brings together one of the strongest women’s fields of the season. All of the world’s top 20 players are confirmed, including World No1 Aryna Sabalenka, six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Świątek, Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula and two-time Dubai winner Elina Svitolina. With the stadium located next to GGICO Metro Station, fans can attend with ease.
4. Grab a selfie with the stars and tournament mascots
The Championships are known for giving fans close access to players, who are often seen along the players’ walkway after matches. The tournament’s mascots, Ace and Annette, also contribute to the lively atmosphere across both weeks.
5. Catch the biggest ATP names on court
Following the women’s final, the ATP 500 men’s tournament runs until February 28. Defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas leads a field that includes former winners Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev and Ugo Humbert. Canadian World No8 Félix Auger-Aliassime, last year’s finalist, enters as the top seed.
6. Watch Jack Draper make his Dubai debut
Britain’s top-ranked men’s player Jack Draper is set to compete in Dubai for the first time.
The 2024 US Open semi-finalist was forced to withdraw last year due to injury but has confirmed his return for the 2026 Championships.
7. Enjoy family activities at the expanded Tennis Village
Fans can take part in games and competitions throughout the two-week event at the expanded Tennis Village. A visit to the Dubai Duty Free shop offers official merchandise and souvenirs, while sponsors including Mercedes-Benz and Evian provide games, prizes and photo opportunities. The on-court Catch and Win challenge also returns, giving spectators the chance to exchange a caught ball for a gift.
Tickets
Tickets are on sale now from Dh65 via dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com and ticketmaster.ae.
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is owned and organised by Dubai Duty Free and held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.