Dubai Sports World 2024 has officially opened as the biggest indoor sports and fitness event in the Middle East, welcoming residents and visitors to a 300,000 sq ft arena at Dubai World Trade Centre. Running daily from 8am to midnight through 8 September 2024, the 14th edition of DSW is broader in scope, scale, and programming than any previous year.
Inauguration Brings NBA Star and Bollywood Icon to the Court
The launch ceremony was attended by HE Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council; Mahir Abdulkarim Julfar, Executive Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre; former NBA All-Star Dale Ellis; and Indian actor and television personality Rannvijay Singha.
HE Saeed Hareb said the event "will once again offer enjoyable sports and fitness experiences, while enhancing community and family ties, and celebrating the importance of an active lifestyle" — a vision he connected to DSW's 14-year legacy of encouraging Dubai residents to stay active year-round.
Mahir Julfar added that the 2024 edition was designed to make the summer season both physically rewarding and genuinely fun for every member of the family.
Ten Sports Across 40 Courts
Dubai Sports World 2024 offers bookable pitches and courts for ten core sports: football, basketball, padel, table tennis, volleyball, badminton, cricket, tennis, teqball, and pickleball. With more than 40 courts spread across Za'abeel Hall at DWTC, players of all levels can reserve their preferred sport directly.
Beyond the courts, DSW 2024 includes summer camps, sports academies, and Dubai Kids World — an enclosed play area featuring trampolines, inflatable slides, and an arts and crafts corner for children.
Dale Ellis on Youth Development in Dubai
Former NBA All-Star Dale Ellis, a three-point shooting champion, spoke at the inauguration about what events like DSW mean for emerging talent: "Such sports events play a crucial role in nurturing young talent, providing a platform where aspiring athletes can develop their skills and pursue their passions."
Ellis will work alongside Never Quit Stay Fit and TAAL Sports throughout the summer, running a programme aimed at developing young athletes' skills and improving personal fitness.
Free Gym, Arcade Games, and People of Determination
All attendees at DSW 2024 have free access to the event's gym — an unusual addition to a summer sports fair that broadens appeal beyond competitive players. The venue also features foosball tables and retro arcade games, giving families plenty to do between sessions on the courts.
Dubai Sports World 2024 is also notable for its commitment to inclusivity, with dedicated facilities and programming for People of Determination ensuring the event is accessible to all members of the community.
Weekend Highlights: Academy Day and Yoga Day
Among the first weekend's special programming: an Academy Day on 29 June featuring performances by young athletes aged 4 to 14, and a Yoga Day on 30 June offering guided sessions for the whole family.
For court reservations, schedules, and further updates, visit Dubai Sports World's official website and social media channels.
