The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026 are shaping up to be one of the most compelling editions in the tournament’s storied history. With elite talent confirmed across both the men’s and women’s draws, the event promises two weeks of high-intensity tennis, global star power, and unforgettable moments on the hard courts of Dubai.
Staged at the iconic Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, the championships will once again bring together the very best of the ATP and WTA Tours. The women’s tournament will be held from February 15 to 21, 2026, followed immediately by the men’s event from February 23 to 28, 2026, offering fans back-to-back world-class action in one of tennis’s most vibrant destinations.
A Premier Event on the Global Tennis Calendar
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships have long been recognised as a flagship event in international tennis. As an ATP 500 tournament on the men’s side and a WTA 1000 event for women, Dubai consistently attracts the strongest fields outside the Grand Slams.
Players are drawn not only by the ranking points and prize money, but also by the tournament’s reputation for excellence, organisation, and player-friendly conditions. The fast hard courts reward aggressive play, making matches dynamic and spectator-friendly, while Dubai’s global connectivity ensures strong attendance from fans across the region and beyond.
For 2026, organisers have confirmed a line-up that reflects both established champions and the new generation of tennis stars, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a must-play stop on the professional tour.
Men’s ATP 500: Champions Return to Defend Their Legacy
The men’s ATP 500 tournament, scheduled from February 23 to 28, 2026, will feature a formidable field led by defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Greek star returns to Dubai after lifting the trophy in the previous edition, where he delivered a commanding performance throughout the week and capped his run with a high-quality final.
Tsitsipas has built a strong relationship with the Dubai courts, and his all-court game, heavy topspin forehand, and improved serve make him a natural fit for the conditions. His return sets the stage for another title defence as he continues to target consistency at the top of the ATP rankings.
Joining him is Canadian standout Félix Auger-Aliassime, who arrives in Dubai following one of the most productive seasons of his career. With multiple ATP titles to his name and a deep run at a Grand Slam on hard courts, Auger-Aliassime has established himself as a genuine threat at every major event. His previous appearance in the Dubai final confirmed his comfort on these courts and his readiness to challenge the very best.
Former champion Daniil Medvedev, winner in Dubai in 2023, also returns as one of the most dangerous players in the field. Known for his tactical intelligence and relentless baseline game, Medvedev remains one of the toughest opponents on hard courts, capable of dismantling even the most aggressive attackers.
Adding further firepower is Andrey Rublev, the 2022 Dubai champion. Rublev’s explosive style and mental resilience have made him a consistent presence in the latter stages of ATP tournaments, and his previous success in Dubai underlines his ability to perform on this stage.
Depth, Variety, and Rising Contenders
Beyond the headline names, the men’s draw in 2026 boasts impressive depth. Players such as Alexander Bublik, Jack Draper, and Karen Khachanov add variety in playing styles and unpredictability to the tournament.
This balance of established champions and rising contenders ensures that every round carries significance. Early matches are likely to feature clashes of contrasting styles, while the later stages promise the kind of high-stakes encounters that define great tournaments.
Women’s WTA 1000: Power, Precision, and New Generations
The women’s WTA 1000 tournament will take place from February 15 to 21, 2026, setting the tone for an exceptional fortnight of tennis. Leading the field is defending champion Mirra Andreeva, whose breakthrough performances have marked her as one of the most exciting talents in the women’s game.
Andreeva’s composure, shot-making ability, and maturity beyond her years were on full display during her title run in Dubai, and her return as defending champion adds an intriguing narrative to the event.
She will be challenged by an elite group of rivals, including world-class competitors Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Świątek, and Coco Gauff. Each brings a distinct style, from Sabalenka’s raw power to Świątek’s precision and Gauff’s athleticism and competitive spirit.
With ranking points, prestige, and early-season momentum at stake, the women’s draw is expected to deliver tightly contested matches and dramatic finishes throughout the week.
Back-to-Back Action for Fans and the City
One of the defining features of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is the back-to-back scheduling of the women’s and men’s tournaments. This format transforms Dubai into a global tennis hub for nearly two weeks, offering fans the opportunity to witness multiple generations of stars in a single visit.
Tickets for both events are available, and organisers anticipate strong attendance from local supporters and international visitors alike. The tournament’s accessibility, combined with Dubai’s hospitality and entertainment offerings, makes it a standout experience on the tennis calendar.
Commitment to Excellence and Global Appeal
Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free and Chairman of the Tournament Organising Committee, has emphasised that the confirmed player line-ups reflect the depth and quality expected of an ATP 500 and WTA 1000 event. The focus remains on delivering competitive tennis while maintaining the high organisational standards for which the championships are known.
Owned and organised by Dubai Duty Free, the tournament is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai. This support has played a vital role in the tournament’s growth into one of the most respected events in professional tennis.
A Showcase of Tennis at Its Finest
As the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026 approach, anticipation continues to build. With confirmed dates, world-class players, and a proven legacy of excellence, the tournament stands ready to deliver thrilling competition and memorable performances.
For players, it represents an opportunity to make a statement early in the season. For fans, it offers a rare chance to see the sport’s biggest names compete at the highest level in a world-class setting. Dubai is once again prepared to welcome the tennis world.
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