Abu Dhabi’s NBA weekend: Meet the legends and artists headlining the 2025 edition of District, and more

Abu Dhabi will host the NBA District from October 2-5, coinciding with the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 featuring the Knicks and 76ers. Fans can meet legends like Oscar Robertson and Derrick Rose, shoot hoops, see the Larry O’Brien Trophy, and enjoy live music from Siilawy and DJ D-Nice.

NBA District Live at Manarat Al Saadiyat. Photo via X

For four days this October, the rhythm of bouncing basketballs and the roar of excited fans will echo through Manarat Al Saadiyat as the NBA District returns bigger, bolder, and more star-studded than ever. Running from October 2 to 5, the fan event will unfold alongside the much-anticipated NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, where the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers will face off in two pre-season showdowns at Etihad Arena (October 2 and 4). But for many fans, what’s happening off the court might be just as thrilling.

Legends of the game, up, close, and personal

Imagine shaking hands with Oscar Robertson or snapping a selfie with Derrick Rose. That’s the kind of experience fans can expect this year. Alongside them, a lineup of NBA greats including Mark Jackson, John Starks, Rudy Gay, and Michael Carter-Williams will take part in fan meetups, Q&A panels, and special appearances that bring the magic of the NBA right to Abu Dhabi’s doorstep. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Not everyone gets to meet their childhood idols, especially not on their home turf in the Middle East.

Beyond hoops: Music, culture, and pure NBA vibes

At the heart of NBA District is a spirit of celebration of sport, yes, but also of community and culture. Fans can shoot hoops on a full-size NBA court, get a close-up look at the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, and shop exclusive NBA gear. There’s even a barbershop offering free cuts, arcade gaming zones with NBA 2K25, and snack stops serving everything from local bites to cult-favorite noodles. And for music lovers, this year’s entertainment lineup is a win of its own: the Friday Night Concert (October 3) will feature Siilawy, Tul8te, DJ Jack, Stick No Bills, and DJ D-Nice, while the Sunday Coffee Social (October 5) will spotlight local DJ collective Abu Dhabi House Movement.

NBA’s growing footprint in the Middle East

Behind the fun lies a bigger vision. According to NBA Europe & Middle East’s George Aivazoglou, the event is part of a wider push to make Abu Dhabi a regional hub for basketball, combining youth development, digital innovation, and cultural engagement. With basketball participation up 50% across the region since 2022, and tens of thousands attending events like NBA District each year, the league’s mission is clear: to turn fans into families and games into memories.

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