Abu Dhabi to Host 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four at Etihad Arena

Abu Dhabi is set to make history as the host of the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four, marking the first time the prestigious event will occur in the United Arab Emirates. The highly anticipated basketball showdown will be held at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena on Yas Island, offering a spectacular experience for fans and players alike.

EuroLeague Final Four: Key Event Details

• Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
• Semifinals: Friday, May 23, 2025 (19:00 and 22:00 local time)
• Third-Place & Championship Game: Sunday, May 25, 2025 (18:00 and 21:00 local time)
• Ticket Sales: General admission tickets go on sale starting February 26, 2025

EuroLeague Basketball Expands to New Global Markets

This groundbreaking agreement, facilitated by Euroleague Basketball, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Etihad Arena, represents a significant milestone in expanding the league’s global footprint. The partnership was secured through IMG, the league’s strategic partner, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a global sports hub.

Dejan Bodiroga, President of Euroleague Basketball, emphasized the significance of the event, stating:

Hosting the Final Four in Abu Dhabi presents a bold and thrilling chance to introduce the EuroLeague’s intense competition to a fresh and diverse audience. This partnership ensures a world-class experience for our loyal fans while introducing European basketball to a rapidly expanding market.”

Why Abu Dhabi? A World-Class Sporting Destination

Abu Dhabi has rapidly emerged as a premier host for international sporting events, demonstrating its capability with successful tournaments such as:

• FIFA Club World Cup (2009, 2010)
• UFC Championship Events
• NBA Pre-Season Games
• USA Basketball Showcase featuring top national teams
• Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

According to HE Saood Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the emirate is committed to delivering an unforgettable EuroLeague Final Four experience:

Abu Dhabi has established itself as the basketball hub of the Middle East, and we are excited to host EuroLeague Basketball for the first time.The Etihad Arena and our world-class attractions will provide fans an immersive experience beyond the games themselves.”

Etihad Arena: A Premier Venue for Elite Sports

The Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi’s most significant indoor multi-purpose venue, boasts a basketball capacity of 12,000 spectators. Nestled on the stunning Yas Bay waterfront, the arena has become a top-tier destination for global events since its opening in 2021. It has previously hosted:

• NBA Pre-Season Games
• UFC Championship Fights
• Concerts by International Superstars

Marcus Osborne, General Manager of Etihad Arena, highlighted the venue’s capabilities:

“As the leading entertainment hub in the region, Etihad Arena is designed to offer a seamless and immersive basketball experience. Having hosted major basketball games before, we are excited to welcome the best of European basketball to Abu Dhabi.”

EuroLeague Final Four: A Step Towards Global Expansion

The decision to host the Final Four in Abu Dhabi aligns with Euroleague Basketball’s strategic goal of reaching new audiences beyond its traditional European markets. Following the success of the Adidas NextGen Qualifier in Dubai, this event further strengthens the league’s presence in the Middle East.

Paulius Motiejunas, CEO of Euroleague Basketball, emphasized the growth strategy:

“Partnering with Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone in our mission to globalize the EuroLeague brand. The region’s passion for sports and world-class facilities make it the perfect stage for our premier event.”

Ticket Sales and Fan Experience

Basketball enthusiasts can purchase tickets starting February 26, 2025, with multiple pricing categories available. Tickets will provide access to all four games across the two-day event, ensuring fans can fully immerse themselves in the high-stakes action.

Matt Dwyer, SVP of Sports Management at IMG, hailed the agreement as a game-changer:

“This deal is the biggest in Euroleague Basketball’s history. It enhances the league’s global presence while delivering an unparalleled experience for fans, players, and stakeholders. Abu Dhabi is ready to set a new benchmark for the Final Four tournament.”

Abu Dhabi: More Than Just Basketball

Fans travelling to Abu Dhabi for the EuroLeague Final Four can explore a wide range of attractions, including:

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – A paradise for thrill-seekers
• Yas Waterworld – One of the world’s best water parks
• Louvre Abu Dhabi – A stunning blend of art and culture
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – A must-visit architectural marvel

With its blend of world-class sports, entertainment, and culture, Abu Dhabi promises an unforgettable experience for basketball fans worldwide.

A Historic EuroLeague Event Awaits

The 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi is set to redefine the EuroLeague experience, bringing the tournament to a new and vibrant region. With its state-of-the-art Etihad Arena, global fan base, and thrilling basketball action, this event is poised to be a landmark moment in EuroLeague history.

Basketball enthusiasts should mark their calendars and secure their tickets early to witness Europe’s best teams battle for glory in one of the most exciting destinations in the world.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Final Four countdown begins!