Are you a big fan of basketball? For the first time in the Middle East, NBA in Abu Dhabi will be descending on the UAE capital this week.
The Atlanta Hawks and the 2021 NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks will play the first ever preseason matches in the capital on Thursday October 6 and Saturday October 8 at Etihad Arena.
The games marks the leagues first ever foray into the UAE and the Gulf as a whole.
But aside from the exciting games that are coming to the capital this week, there are also a variety of exclusive events happening for NBA in Abu Dhabi, including live performances and meet-and-greets.
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A huge NBA in Abu Dhabi fan event will be taking place at Manarat Al Saadiyat this week. NBA District will be held from Wednesday to Sunday and will showcase music and art associated with the NBA. You’ll get the chance to buy limited-edition merchandise, dive in to immersive experiences, and even get the opportunity to meet former NBA players.
There will also be performances by the Milwaukee Bucks dunk team and mascot Bango, as well as the Atlanta Hawks’ dance team and their mascot Harry the Hawk. There will also be live art demonstrations by Spanish artist Mr Dripping and NBA Lab creative director Billi Kid.
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Hoping to meet some of the most incredible players during NBA in Abu Dhabi? One of the biggest NBA superstars will be coming to the UAE, and you will have a chance to meet him.
Shaquille O’Neal has been announced as the official NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022 Ambassador, and during NBA in Abu Dhabi, he will be participating in youth development and potentially interact with local fans during the week.
There will also be one live Q&A session each day with former players including O’Neal, Dominique Wilkins, Isaiah Thomas, Chris Bosh and Vince Carter.
For those who didn’t snag tickets to the NBA games can head over to Manarat Al Saadiyat for a live viewing party on Friday October 7, which will be hosted by O’Neal himself and will also feature an exclusive performance by American rapper Fabolous.
NBA District at Manarat Al Saadiyat kicks off on Wednesday October 5 at 4pm and day passes start from Dhs55, while a five day pass starts at Dhs214.
Looking to fill up your wardrobe with NBA in Abu Dhabi merch? Head over to the official NBA store at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi, where you can get your hands on everything from player jerseys, fan apparel, basketball caps, footwear and so much more.
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Yas Mall will also host special interactive activities for fans over the next few days, including an NBA-theme area in the mall’s Town Square courtyard that will display Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, as well as NBA Jam NBA 2k23 video game kiosks and pop-a-shots for those who want to try their best slam dunk.
So what are you waiting for? Head over to Yas Island for all the NBA in Abu Dhabi fun.
Thu Oct 6, Sun Oct 9. Etihad Arena, Yas Island, etihadarena.ae.
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