Top stars to compete as Abu Dhabi Open returns for fourth edition

World-class women’s tennis is set to return to the UAE capital as the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council confirms dates for the fourth edition, taking place from January 31 to February 7, 2026 at the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City.

After a record-breaking 2025 edition that attracted eight of the world’s top 20 players and drew thousands of fans over eight thrilling days of competition, next year’s tournament promises to be even more spectacular, reaffirming Abu Dhabi’s status as a premier global hub for elite sports. The fourth edition will feature 28 top singles players and 16 leading doubles teams, building on last season’s unprecedented success and delivering an unforgettable showcase of world-class talent, intense rivalries, and exhilarating on-court action.

Fans can expect bigger crowds, higher stakes, and the same electrifying atmosphere that has made the tournament a highlight of the international sporting calendar.

The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has rapidly established itself as one of the most prestigious tournaments on the women’s tennis calendar. In just a few short years, it has evolved from a new addition to the WTA Tour into a highly anticipated event that attracts global attention.

Its growing reputation is reflected not only in the valuable ranking points it offers but also in the exceptional calibre of players who have taken part in its first three editions. From Grand Slam champions to rising stars, many of the world’s top-ranked athletes have chosen Abu Dhabi as an early-season battleground, using the tournament as both a test of form and a platform to set the tone for the year ahead.

Beyond the competition itself, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has become a celebration of world-class tennis in the UAE, showcasing the nation’s commitment to hosting elite sporting events. In the previous edition of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, Olympic gold medallist and inaugural champion Belinda Bencic staged a sensational comeback, thrilling fans as she claimed her second title at the prestigious tournament by defeating rising star Ashlyn Krueger in a memorable final.

The tournament also witnessed top-tier doubles action, with Jelena Ostapenko and Ellen Perez showcasing exceptional skill and teamwork to capture the doubles crown, adding another highlight to a week already packed with world-class tennis.

Hosted in partnership with Mubadala and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the WTA 500 event — part of the prestigious Hologic WTA tour — represents a unique convergence of world-class sport and entertainment.

The tournament will once again span eight days, taking fans on a journey from opening qualifiers to the thrilling finals on Saturday, February 7.

Homaid Al Shimmari, Deputy Group CEO and Chief Corporate & Human Capital Officer for Mubadala Investment Company, said, “For more than 15 years, Mubadala has been proud to champion tennis and bring world-class sporting experiences to the UAE. As a global investor, we are committed to creating long-term value not only in the industries we invest in but also in the communities we serve. The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has quickly become one of the most significant sporting events in the UAE, inspiring future talent and uniting the community.”

Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, added, “This championship has become a highlight of Abu Dhabi’s global sporting calendar, reinforcing the capital’s reputation as an international hub for elite sport. Each year, we continue to build on this success, and we are excited to welcome players, fans and families back to Zayed Sports City for another spectacular edition.”

With its perfect blend of athletic excellence, entertainment, and immersive fan engagement, the WTA 500 Abu Dhabi is set to deliver a truly unforgettable sporting experience that captures the excitement, energy, and glamour of professional tennis at the highest level.