Dubai to host first-ever UAE Netball Cup in June 2025

International women’s teams face off in fast-paced round robin tournament

Netball
Caption: Dubai will host the inaugural UAE Netball Cup from 15–21 June, featuring six international teams and showcasing the rising profile of women’s sport in the region.
Source: Supplied


DUBAI is set to welcome the inaugural UAE Netball Cup 2025, a groundbreaking international tournament that highlights the growing stature of women’s sport across the region.

Organised by the UAE Netball Federation in collaboration with Falcon and Associates, the event will run from 15 to 21 June at the Al Nasr Sports Hall in Dubai.

The tournament will feature six national teams ranked between 18th and 30th in the world: the UAE, USA, Republic of Ireland, Singapore, Kenya, and Namibia. All eyes will be on this dynamic line-up as they compete in an intense week-long contest under a round robin format, offering three matches each day from 15 to 17 June and again on 19 and 20 June.

The action culminates on Saturday 21 June with a full day of decisive matchups, including the anticipated final showdown.

UAE Falcons’ ambition

Ranked 23rd in the world, the UAE Falcons are preparing to take centre stage in front of a home crowd. With an eye on improving their global standing, the team blends experienced players with emerging stars drawn from the UAE’s successful U17 and U21 development pathways.

This fresh wave of talent marks a new era for the Falcons, as young athletes make their senior debuts following years of progression through national programmes. Backed by seasoned teammates, they are ready to showcase their skills, unity, and determination in what promises to be a fiercely contested competition. The squad hopes to channel home support into a winning edge and is calling on fans nationwide to pack the stands and cheer them towards a potential podium finish.

Boost for women’s sport

As an officially recognised World Netball event, the UAE Netball Cup represents a significant milestone for the sport in the Emirates. It not only signals the country’s readiness to host elite-level global tournaments but also shines a spotlight on the UAE’s commitment to championing female athletes and building a robust foundation for women’s sport.

The tournament’s launch adds to Dubai’s growing reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events. With affordable tickets starting from just Dh40 per day, organisers hope to attract families, students, and sports fans eager to witness high-energy netball action in person.

Netball in the UAE

Netball has a legacy of over 40 years in the UAE, with its recent growth fuelled by grassroots initiatives and club leagues. In 2010, Active Netball began offering structured coaching and competitions beyond school settings, laying the groundwork for stronger national representation.

Established in 2017, the UAE Netball Federation became the official governing body and joined both Europe Netball and World Netball by 2018. These affiliations have enabled the UAE to compete in sanctioned international fixtures, helping the sport gain visibility and legitimacy across all age groups.

Today, the Federation remains a voluntary organisation working closely with Active Netball to expand opportunities and bring high-calibre global competitions like the UAE Netball Cup to the region.

Tickets are available from just Dh40 per day.