Calling all tennis fans: the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open is back for 2026, and this year’s edition promises a week packed with elite tennis, buzzing crowds and a festival-style atmosphere in the UAE capital.
Now in its fourth edition, the tournament has quickly cemented itself as a must-watch stop on the women’s tennis calendar. With world-class players, accessible ticket prices and a lively fan experience, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open continues to attract both hardcore tennis followers and first-time spectators.
Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 tournament, from confirmed stars and match dates to tickets, venue details and what fans can expect on and off the court.
Tournament Dates and Venue
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026 runs from Saturday, January 31 to Saturday, February 7, 2026. Matches take place at the International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City, one of the region’s premier sporting venues.
The week-long schedule includes early-round matches, quarter-finals, semi-finals and the championship finals, offering fans multiple opportunities to catch their favourite players in action. The opening Saturday features open seating, making it an ideal entry point for newcomers to the sport.
A WTA 500 Tournament With Global Prestige
As a WTA 500 event, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open attracts top-ranked singles and doubles players from around the world. Over the years, the tournament has gained a reputation for delivering high-quality matchups early in the season, often setting the tone for the months ahead on the women’s tour.
Last year’s edition was record-breaking, welcoming eight players from the world’s top 20 rankings. That success has raised expectations even higher for 2026, with a lineup that blends established champions and exciting rising stars.
Star Players to Watch in 2026
This year’s field includes some of the most talked-about names in women’s tennis, ensuring thrilling encounters from the very first round.
World number five Elena Rybakina, the Wimbledon 2022 champion, headlines the tournament. Known for her powerful serve and calm presence under pressure, Rybakina is widely tipped as one of the favourites for the title.
Also competing is reigning Abu Dhabi Open champion Belinda Bencic, who returns after a memorable victory last season. In 2025, Bencic made a remarkable comeback, defeating rising American star Ashlyn Krueger in the final to secure her second title at the event.
Adding further excitement is Filipino trailblazer Alexandra Eala, whose rapid rise has captured global attention. Her presence highlights the tournament’s growing international appeal and its role in showcasing the next generation of tennis talent.
What Makes the Abu Dhabi Open Special
While the on-court action is the main attraction, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has built a loyal following thanks to its overall experience. The tournament is designed to be welcoming, inclusive and lively, making it more than just a series of matches.
The atmosphere around the stadium is relaxed yet energetic, with fans able to move between courts, social spaces and entertainment zones throughout the day. Players have also spoken positively about the facilities and crowd support, further enhancing the event’s reputation on the global tour.
The Fan Village Experience
One of the standout features of the tournament is the Fan Village, which is free to enter for all visitors. Located within the venue, it offers a vibrant mix of gourmet food stalls, casual dining options and live entertainment between matches.
Fans can enjoy music performances, interactive activities and player appearances, creating a festival-like environment that keeps the energy high even during breaks in play. It is also a popular spot for families, groups of friends and casual visitors who want to soak up the atmosphere without committing to a full day in the stands.
Family-Friendly and Affordable Tickets
Affordability remains one of the tournament’s strongest selling points. Tickets for the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open start from just Dhs25, making it one of the most accessible international sporting events in the region.
Children under 12 can attend the first five days of the tournament free of charge, encouraging families to experience world-class tennis together. The opening Saturday offers free entry and open seating for all, a rare opportunity to watch elite players without purchasing a ticket.
Tickets for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals are still available, but demand is high, particularly for the closing weekend. Fans are encouraged to secure seats early to avoid disappointment.
High-Stakes Matches as the Tournament Progresses
As the week unfolds, the intensity ramps up. Early rounds often deliver surprise results and breakout performances, while the latter stages showcase the experience and mental toughness of top-ranked players.
With the memory of last season’s dramatic final still fresh, expectations are high for another edge-of-the-seat championship match. Whether it is a defending champion fighting to retain her title or a new star announcing herself on the global stage, the final weekend promises unforgettable moments.
Abu Dhabi’s Growing Sporting Reputation
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open plays a key role in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s status as a global sports destination. The event sits alongside other major international competitions hosted in the capital, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond.
According to His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the tournament has become a highlight of the city’s sporting calendar, strengthening its reputation as an international hub for elite sport and family-friendly events.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
To get the best experience, fans are encouraged to arrive early, explore the Fan Village and watch matches across different courts. Early rounds offer the chance to see more players up close, while the later stages deliver the drama and prestige of championship tennis.
With a mix of competitive matches, entertainment and accessible pricing, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026 offers something for everyone, from dedicated tennis followers to those simply looking for a great day out.
As the fourth edition gets underway, one thing is clear: Abu Dhabi is set for another unforgettable week of world-class tennis.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram.
Read Next – Major Abu Dhabi Road Closures Planned Across the City This Week
