With the Abu Dhabi Games 2022 fast approaching, the emirate plans on celebrating NBA and basketball culture in the UAE by hosting an interactive event called NBA District from October 5-9.
NBA legend appearances
The NBA District event will be held at Manarat Al Saadiyat and will showcase the music, media, and art associated with NBA culture. As part of the interactive experience, NBA legends such as Chris Bosh, Isiah Thomas, Vince Carter, Dominique Wilkins will be making appearances as well as the Abu Dhabi Games ambassador Shaquille O’Neal, who’ll be hosting his very own “NBA Night in Abu Dhabi” event to celebrate the first ever NBA Games in the UAE.
“We are thrilled to maximise the NBA experience with NBA District, an unmissable event for fans and families alike,” said Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, HE Saleh Mohamed Saleh Al Geziry.
“Whether you are new to the NBA or a passionate fan, NBA District will offer a first-of-its kind NBA experience in the heart of the city,” said NBA Head of Fan Engagement and Direct-to-Consumer for Europe and the Middle East, George Aivazoglou.
Fans will be able to watch authentic NBA game entertainment, take part in NBA-themed exhibitions and games such as the NBA Ice Buckets buzzer beater competition for a chance to win tickets to the games and purchase limited-edition NBA merchandise.
There will also be photo opportunities with NBA personalities and authentic memorabilia such as the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
Live music and art performances
International Hip-Hop star Fabolous will be performing live alongside other acts such as the Milwaukee Bucks Dunk Team and their mascot Bango, while their opponents, the Atlanta Hawks will be showcasing their Dance team and mascot Harry the Hawk.
Live art performances from UAE-based artist Mr Dripping and NBA Lab Creative Director Billi Kid will also be taking place. Fans will able to attend panels and workshops featuring current and former NBA players, global content creators, artists and entertainers.
Celebrating NBA in the UAE, international and traditional Emirati food and beverages will be served during the event for fans to enjoy.
“Hosting NBA District as part of the region’s first NBA games is another highly memorable moment for Abu Dhabi, as we continue to attract top-tier global sports, share our warm Emirati hospitality and showcase the destination’s many exciting, inspiring and relaxing experiences with the world.” said Al Geziry.
How to get tickets
Anyone interested in going to the NBA District event will need to visit the NBA Events website where they can either purchase a one-day ticket for AED 55, or a ticket for all five days which will cost AED 215. Fans can also purchase tickets to the Atlanta Hawks vs Milwaukee Bucks games that weekend at Etihad Arena if they haven’t already done so.
Fans can also download the NBA Events app for specific details about appearances and special events that will be taking place at NBA District. Additional events, activities and appearances will be announced prior to the event.
NBA District event schedule
The entire schedule with the dates and times for each event can be found below.
| General Admission | Special Programming |
| Wednesday, Oct. 5 from 4 p.m. – 12 a.m. GST | NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022 entertainment preview, including performances by the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks in-game entertainment teams as well as player and legend panels |
| Thursday, Oct. 6 from 4 p.m. – 12 a.m. GST | NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022 viewing party (7 p.m. – 12 a.m. GST) |
| Friday, Oct. 7 from 3 – 7 p.m. GST | “NBA Night in Abu Dhabi hosted by Shaq,” featuring popular UAE-based DJ Bliss, the Milwaukee Bucks DJ and a headlining performance by global hip-hop star Fabolous (8 p.m. – 1 a.m. GST) |
| Saturday, Oct. 8 from 12 p.m. – 12 a.m. GST | NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022 viewing party (7 p.m. – 12 a.m. GST) |
| Sunday, Oct. 9 from 12 – 10 p.m. GST | NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022 all-day wrap up activities |