The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have unveiled plans for an expanded fourth edition of NBA District, set to take place from Thursday, October 2 to Sunday, October 5 at Manarat Al Saadiyat. The interactive fan event will run alongside the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ, which will feature the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers in two preseason matchups on October 2 and October 4 at Etihad Arena, Yas Island.
This year’s NBA District will welcome a star-studded lineup of basketball legends, including Oscar Robertson, Derrick Rose, Mark Jackson, John Starks, Rudy Gay, and Michael Carter-Williams. The players will take part in panels and fan engagements, adding to the festival atmosphere of the four-day celebration of basketball and culture.
Visitors to the fan zone will be able to enjoy a wide range of experiences, including basketball activities on a full-size NBA court, photo opportunities with the iconic Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, and access to exclusive NBA merchandise. Fans will also have the chance to attend panel discussions with the former players and participate in interactive sessions.
In addition to basketball, music and entertainment will play a central role in the event. On Friday, October 3, NBA District will feature performances by artists including Siilawy, Tul8te, DJ Jack, Stick no bills, and internationally renowned DJ D-Nice. The festivities will conclude on Sunday, October 5 with a “Sunday Coffee Rave” featuring local collective Abu Dhabi House Movement.
The participating legends bring with them an illustrious history of accolades and achievements. Robertson, widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game, was a 12-time NBA All-Star, the 1963–64 league MVP, and a 1971 NBA champion. Rose became the youngest player in history to be named NBA MVP at just 22 years old with the Chicago Bulls in 2011. Jackson, a Rookie of the Year winner and former All-Star, ranks sixth all-time in assists, while Starks remains the New York Knicks’ all-time leader in three-pointers. Gay, who enjoyed a 17-season NBA career, collected two FIBA World Cup gold medals with Team USA. Carter-Williams was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2014 with the 76ers.
The legends are also scheduled to attend the Knicks-76ers preseason games, which mark the continuation of Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a hub for international basketball. Tickets for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 are now available at etihadarena.ae and ticketmaster.ae.
By blending sport, music, and fan interaction, the NBA District aims to provide a dynamic experience for basketball enthusiasts and families alike, while further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a destination for major global sporting events.
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