Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026 Returns with Free Entry Days and Expanded Activities
ABU DHABI – The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open is set to return to the International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City from January 31 to February 7, 2026, promising a week that blends high-stakes WTA 500 competition with a robust festival atmosphere designed for families.
While the tournament will showcase some of the world’s top female athletes, organizers have announced a significantly expanded programme for 2026. With the debut of a wheelchair tennis invitational, a vibrant Tennis Village, and dedicated free-entry days, the event aims to position itself as a premier community outing rather than just a sporting fixture.
World-Class Lineup Confirmed
The on-court action features a stacked field of Grand Slam champions and rising stars. Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion and World No. 5, headlines the draw alongside defending champion Belinda Bencic and Spanish fan-favourite Paula Badosa.
The roster also includes proven major winners such as Barbora Krejcikova, Marketa Vondrousova, Jelena Ostapenko, and Sofia Kenin. They will be joined by exciting young talents like rising Canadian star Victoria Mboko and Filipino trailblazer Alexandra Eala, ensuring a competitive week of tennis.
Opening Weekend and Kids’ Days: Free for All
In a move to make the sport accessible to the wider community, the tournament has announced that the opening day, Saturday, January 31, will be completely free to attend for all ages.
- Opening Saturday Highlights: Fans can watch the world’s top players battle for a spot in the next round and witness the Draw Ceremony live on the Village Stage, featuring a top WTA player appearance.
- Kids Go Free: The offer extends into the week, with children granted free entry from Monday, February 2 through Wednesday, February 4.
A Festival Atmosphere: The Tennis Village
This year’s Tennis Village is billed as the most interactive to date. Fans can participate in the “Ball in Your Court” activation, “Baseline Arts” workshops, and contribute to a Community Art Wall inspired by Emirati artist Mariam Al Obeidli.
For active fans, the village features a Serve n’ Strike Wall, Tennis Swing Station, and Basketball Clinics. Meanwhile, families can enjoy giant lawn games like Jenga and Plinko, or visit the Grand Slam Arcade. A “Mubadala Village passport” will allow visitors to collect stamps at various activities to win prizes.
Inclusivity and Future Stars
For the first time, the 2026 edition will host a Wheelchair Tennis Invitational (Feb 5–7), featuring singles, doubles, and mixed doubles matches. Athletes will also lead coaching clinics for people of determination to encourage wider participation in the sport.
The tournament also continues to champion the next generation through the Road to MADO programme. Top performing juniors from across the UAE will compete in playoffs during tournament week, with standout players vying for an all-expenses-paid training experience at the Ferrero Academy.
Director’s Vision
Nigel Gupta, Tournament Director at MARI, emphasized the event’s evolution into a community hub:
“The beauty of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open is that it offers so much more than a world-class tennis tournament… It’s an event built for the whole community – whether you follow tennis or you’re simply looking for a great day out.”
Key Event Information
- Dates: January 31 – February 7, 2026
- Location: International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City
- Tickets: Available now via Platinumlist
Organized by MARI in partnership with Mubadala and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the event will also feature comprehensive medical and wellbeing services provided by Healthpoint to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.