EuroLeague Basketball has officially announced that the 2025 Final Four will be hosted in Abu Dhabi, marking a historic first for the event.
The prestigious tournament will be held at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena on Yas Island, a prime location in the United Arab Emirates. The semifinals are scheduled for Friday, May 23, at 19:00 and 22:00 local time, with the third-place and championship games taking place on Sunday, May 25, at 18:00 and 21:00 local time.
Tickets for the event will go on sale on February 26, providing fans with an opportunity to witness Europe’s top basketball talent in one of the region’s most dynamic cities.
This groundbreaking partnership between Euroleague Basketball, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Etihad Arena signifies a major step in EuroLeague’s global expansion. The move to Abu Dhabi brings the event to a new audience, as the city has rapidly become a leading sports hub in the Middle East.
Dejan Bodiroga, President of Euroleague Basketball, expressed excitement about the opportunity, noting that bringing the Final Four to Abu Dhabi is a significant moment for the league. “This partnership guarantees our loyal fans a fresh experience in one of the world’s most modern cities,” he said.
Abu Dhabi’s rich sporting culture made it an ideal location. The city has hosted numerous international events, from Formula 1 races to UFC bouts and NBA pre-season games. It is now poised to showcase EuroLeague basketball to a global audience.
HE Saood Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, emphasized the city’s growing importance in the sports world. “Abu Dhabi is the home for basketball in the Middle East, and we’re excited to bring EuroLeague Basketball to the region,” he said.
Etihad Arena, with a seating capacity of 12,000, is equipped to provide an unparalleled fan experience. The arena, which opened in 2021, has already hosted major sports events and concerts, solidifying its status as a premier venue.
Paulius Motiejunas, CEO of Euroleague Basketball, added that the agreement with Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in their global growth strategy. “We are bringing our most iconic event to a dynamic new environment,” he stated.
Abu Dhabi’s location on the Yas Bay waterfront offers not only world-class sports facilities but also numerous attractions for visitors, making it a perfect destination for both sports fans and tourists alike.
As EuroLeague prepares to expand its global footprint, this landmark deal signals the beginning of a new chapter in the league’s history, opening the door to new markets and fans.
