Dubai, UAE – June 6, 2025 – In a landmark decision that redefines European club basketball, the EuroLeague has officially approved the participation of a Dubai-based team starting in the 2024/25 season. This move marks the first time a non-European team will play in Europe’s top basketball competition, highlighting Dubai’s growing role as a global sports hub.
Why Dubai?
The decision, confirmed by EuroLeague CEO Paulius Motiejunas, reflects Dubai’s strategic ambitions to become a world leader in international sports. “We believe Dubai can bring a new dimension to the EuroLeague in terms of global visibility, infrastructure, and market potential,” Motiejunas said in a press statement.
The UAE has invested heavily in sports over the past decade, with success stories in football, MMA, tennis, and now basketball. The new Dubai basketball franchise will benefit from world-class facilities and financial backing few other clubs can match.
What It Means for the EuroLeague
Until now, the EuroLeague has consisted of teams from traditional European basketball nations like Spain, Turkey, and Greece. The addition of Dubai not only expands the geographic reach of the competition but also introduces new commercial opportunities. This includes the potential to tap into new broadcast markets and attract sponsors from the Middle East and beyond.
Basketball insiders see this as a double-edged sword: while it strengthens the league financially, some purists fear it could dilute the competition’s European identity.
Fan Reactions and Next Steps
Initial reactions have been mixed. While fans in the UAE are celebrating the inclusion, some European fans have expressed concern over travel logistics and the potential impact on traditional rivalries. However, EuroLeague officials are confident the benefits outweigh the risks.
The Dubai team’s official name, branding, and player roster are expected to be revealed later this summer. Training camps and promotional events are already being planned in both Dubai and key European cities.
Conclusion: Dubai’s Bold Step Into European Basketball
Dubai’s entry into the EuroLeague isn’t just a sporting milestone—it’s a statement. As the UAE continues to position itself as a bridge between continents, cultures, and industries, this bold step into European basketball signals that the future of sports is global, and Dubai is leading the charge.