Meet NBA legends, experience music nights and more: NBA District returns to Abu Dhabi

The countdown is on for one of the city’s most anticipated sporting weekends. While the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers are set to clash at Etihad Arena as part of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, the fan-favourite NBA District is also making its comeback, and it’s bigger than ever.

From 2–5 October, Manarat Al Saadiyat transforms into a basketball-lover’s playground. This year’s line-up of NBA greats is nothing short of iconic:

• Oscar Robertson – Hall of Famer, 12-time All-Star and the man the Western Conference trophy is named after.

• Derrick Rose – youngest MVP in league history at just 22.

• Mark Jackson – sixth all-time for assists and Knicks favourite.

• John Starks – a 90s Knicks legend known for his three-point magic.

• Rudy Gay – 17 seasons, two FIBA golds and consistent scoring power.

• Michael Carter-Williams – Rookie of the Year in 2014 with the 76ers.

  
  

It’s not just about meet-and-greets. Fans can hit the full-size NBA court, snap a photo with the Larry O’Brien Trophy, shop exclusive merch, and dive into interactive panels and activities.

Basketball meets beats at the Friday Night Concert on 3 October, with performances from Siilawy, Tul8te, DJ Jack, Stick No Bills and DJ D-Nice. Then, ease into your Sunday morning with the Sunday Coffee Social (5 October), soundtracked by local favourite Abu Dhabi House Movement.

• When: 2–5 October 2025

• Where: Manarat Al Saadiyat

• Tickets: Available via ticketmaster.ae (separate tickets needed for the Friday concert and Sunday social). Premium packages also on sale through nbaexperiences.com.