The Inaugral Edition of Sport Industry Series: The Majlis Draws Top Industry Leaders to the Capital

Over 80 influential decision-makers in sport attended the exclusive, invite-only event in Abu Dhabi.

More than 80 senior professionals from the sports industry gathered in Abu Dhabi for the highly anticipated debut of Sport Industry Series: The Majlis, an exclusive event designed to foster candid discussions and high-level networking. Launched by the founders of the Sport Industry Series, Interact and Sport360X, The Majlis sets a new benchmark for industry engagement in the region.

Hosted against the stunning backdrop of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open on February 6, the invite-only gathering brought together C-suite executives from leading sports organisations for a day of thought-provoking discussions and interactive dialogue. The event, hosted by renowned sports broadcaster Chris McHardy, delivered on the Sport Industry Series (SIS) promise – creating an intimate platform for decision-makers to exchange insights and drive industry innovation.

The event kicked off with a highly insightful panel discussion featuring three distinguished industry leaders in the form of Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer, Mubadala; Hamda Al Mansoori, Strategic Planning Director, Abu Dhabi Sports Council; and Danny Klima, General Manager, Zayed Sports City, OVG Middle East.

Together, they explored the evolving landscape of Abu Dhabi’s sports industry, including investment trends and future growth opportunities.

It was followed by an in-depth feature interview with Melissa Moncada—Founder and CEO, Aurora Rise Group; Executive Vice Chairwoman, Colnago. She shared insights about the challenges and triumphs of women in cycling, emphasising the strides made in recent years.

“It is amazing to see so many fans come here to support women’s tennis,” she stated.

“It is also incredible to see big companies like Mubadala extending their support to grow the game among women.

“This gives us optimism too, and I urge the fans to come out and show similar support towards women’s cycling.”

Beyond the panel and interviews, attendees engaged in a networking lunch, providing a rare opportunity to engage directly with other industry leaders.

“It has thrown more light upon how Abu Dhabi is becoming the hub of sports and entertainment, along with the massive investment coming into the sports industry in the region as a whole.”

The launch of The Majlis marks the beginning of a transformative chapter for the sports industry in the Middle East.

By combining Interact’s expertise in delivering the Sport Industry Forum with Sport360X’s legacy of the Sports Industry Awards, we’re creating something truly unique,” said Mark Guildea, Managing Director of Interact.

“The Majlis represents a new era of high-level, interactive engagement in the Middle East’s dynamic sports industry,” said Bassam Nawfal, Sport360X Managing Director. “By creating a more intimate setting, we’re enabling C-suite executives to dive deeper into the key issues shaping the industry.

“This is not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about fostering collaboration, sparking innovation, and building relationships that will drive the future. The inaugural edition in Abu Dhabi provides a unique opportunity to develop how we meaningfully connect and learn from one another.”

With more editions of The Majlis on the horizon, the Sport Industry Series is set to redefine how sports leaders connect, collaborate, and drive the industry forward.

About Sport Industry Forum (SIF):

The Sport Industry Forum, organised by Interact, is the leading sport business conference for networking, knowledge sharing, and thought leadership. It brings together professionals, innovators, and decision-makers to discuss the latest trends and challenges in sports across the Middle East.

About Sports Industry Awards (SPIA):

The Sports Industry Awards, established by Sport360X, celebrate excellence in the sports sector, recognising outstanding achievements by individuals, teams, and organisations. SPIA highlights the best practices and innovations that drive the sports industry forward. Submissions are now open for the 12th edition.

Media contacts:

India Beckwith, Interact – E: [email protected]

Marketing Team, Sport360X – E: [email protected]

Sport Industry Series: The Majlis offers executives unique insights and exclusive connections

The brand behind the prestigious Sport Industry Forum and Sports Industry Awards is proud to introduce Sport Industry Series: The Majlis, an exclusive, invite-only event designed for high-level sports business professionals.

Hosted by renowned broadcaster Chris McHardy, The Majlis – part of the groundbreaking SIS partnership launched by Interact and Sport360X last October – provides an intimate setting for senior decision-makers to engage in candid, high-level discussions. Unlike larger conferences, the event focuses on interactive dialogue, allowing attendees to converse directly with industry leaders and gain unique insights.

Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open will provide an inspirational backdrop for February 6’s impactful inaugural edition. Invitations are limited to C-suite executives.

“It’s exciting to launch the first-ever Sport Industry Series: The Majlis at Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open and we are very grateful to Mubadala for the opportunity,” said Sally Corander, Founder and Director of Interact.

“The event is a mini version of our annual Forum and brings together Government, brands, and rights holders for top-level discussion, high-value networking and a shared experience of world-class tennis.

“Discussions at The Majlis will look at the impact of the UAE’s major sporting events – both in elevating the nation’s global profile and driving meaningful community engagement. With 2025 declared the UAE’s ‘Year of Community,’ the speakers will discuss what this means for sport and how the sector can leverage major events to foster greater participation and social impact.

“I am looking forward to listening to our panelists, including Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer for Mubadala; Hamda Al Mansoori, Strategic Planning Director, Abu Dhabi Sports Council; and Danny Klima, General Manager, Zayed Sports City, Ethara, for what promises to be an inspiring afternoon.”

There will also be a featured interview with Melissa Moncada – Founder and CEO, Aurora Rise Group; Executive Chairwoman, Colnago.

Fostering collaboration and thought leadership, The Majlis creates an environment where relationships thrive and new ideas emerge. Industry leaders can engage in real-time problem-solving and continue staying ahead in the evolving sports business.

The Majlis represents a new era of high-level, interactive engagement in the Middle East’s dynamic sports industry,” said Bassam Nawfal, Sport360X Managing Director. “By creating a more intimate setting, we’re enabling C-suite executives to dive deeper into the key issues shaping the industry.

“This is not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about fostering collaboration, sparking innovation and building relationships that will drive the future. The inaugural edition in Abu Dhabi provides a unique opportunity to develop how we meaningfully connect and learn from one another.”

With The Majlis, Sport Industry Series is setting a new standard for networking and discussion, offering an unparalleled opportunity for executives to shape the sport industry’s future.

About Sport Industry Forum (SIF):

The Sport Industry Forum, established by Interact, is the leading sport business conference for networking, knowledge sharing and thought leadership. It brings together professionals, innovators and decision-makers to discuss the latest trends and challenges in sports.

About Sports Industry Awards (SPIA):

The Sports Industry Awards, established by Sport360X, celebrate excellence in the sports sector, recognising outstanding achievements by individuals, teams and organisations. SPIA highlights the best practices and innovations that drive the sports industry forward. Submissions are now open for the 12th edition.

Media contacts:

India Beckwith, Interact – E: [email protected]
Marketing Team, Sport360X – E: [email protected]

Submissions now open for the prestigious 12th edition of Sports Industry Awards [SPIA]

SPIA’s list of categories has expanded to 20 in 2025

Submissions are now open for the 12th edition of Sports Industry Awards [SPIA], the prestigious annual celebration of the Middle East’s game changers and decision makers. Since 2012, this ceremony has honoured leaders, organisations, facilities and campaigns that have contributed to the rich development of sports in the region. Last year’s running witnessed a record attendance of 400 esteemed guests enjoy a gala night at Dubai’s Atlantis, The Palm, with winners for as many as 14 categories picked by an independent panel of judges. Competition is set to step up another level this year after Sport Industry Forum (SIF), established by Interact, and Sports Industry Awards, established by Sport360X, announced a partnership to bring the UAE’s most-revered sports events under one umbrella – the Sport Industry Series. SPIA’s list of categories has expanded to 20 in 2025, with detailed information available on SPIA’s dedicated website. Avail an Early Bird submissions offer until February 7, with further deadlines and prices applicable until March 29’s close. “Sport360X is excited to invite submissions for the 12th edition of SPIA,” said Bassam Nawfal, Managing Director. “It’s a unique opportunity to showcase the best of the sports industry in the region, and with each passing year, the event grows in significance. The Middle East’s sports sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, meaning it’s essential to celebrate and recognise the achievements that are driving this success. “We encourage all organisations and individuals to submit their entries to be part of this incredible celebration. A huge thank you to our partners and sponsors – without their support, none of this would be possible.”

Winning or being nominated for an SPIA award enhances a brand’s reputation and credibility in the sports industry by providing external validation from industry experts. An award-winning submission leads to increased media exposure across various platforms, boosting brand awareness. The recognition also opens networking opportunities with industry leaders, peers and potential collaborators. A SPIA win attracts top talent, helps retain key staff and builds consumer trust. It gives the brand a competitive edge and offers valuable content for marketing campaigns. Additionally, the award can attract new sponsorships and partnerships, as brands with proven success are more appealing to investors.

Sally Corander, Founder and Director of Interact, stated that the launch of the Sport Industry Series will deliver an “awards experience bigger and more impactful than ever” for attendees and competitors, thanks to the combined expertise, reach, and success of Interact and Sport360x.

She said: “We’re thrilled to be part of SPIA 2025, marking the first edition under the Sport Industry Series. With a distinguished panel of VIP judges and dynamic new categories, we’re excited to spotlight and celebrate the exceptional talent shaping the future of the sports industry in the Middle East.”

Make your submission to gain the chance to join an estimable list of previous winners. Last year’s champions included NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023 Presented by ADQ, DP World Tour, 160OVER90, Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 and Motus One.

2025 SPIA categories:

Major Sport Event of the Year; Sport Event Supplier of the Year; Inclusion Initiative of the Year; Community Sports Initiative of the Year; Mass Participation Event of the Year; Agency of the Year; Sport Team of the Year; Sport Venue of the Year; Youth Sports Programme of the Year; Campaign of the Year; Partnership Activation of the Year; E-Sports Excellence; Best Fan Engagement in Sport; Excellence in Sustainability; Best Use of Technology; Best Advisory Services; Best Corporate Wellness through Sport; Female Leader in Middle East Sport; Outstanding Contribution to Middle East Sport; Visionary Leadership in Middle East Sport

About Sport Industry Forum (SIF):

The Sport Industry Forum, established by Interact, is the leading sport business conference for networking, knowledge sharing, and thought leadership. It brings together professionals, innovators, and decision-makers to discuss the latest trends and challenges in sports.

About Sports Industry Awards (SPIA):

The Sports Industry Awards, established by Sport360X, celebrate excellence in the sports sector, recognising outstanding achievements by individuals, teams, and organisations. SPIA highlights the best practices and innovations that drive the sports industry forward.

Media contacts:

India Beckwith, Interact – E: [email protected]
Marketing Team, Sport360X – E: [email protected]

Term 1 of DOBA comes to grand conclusion

Over 1,000 players participate in Dubai’s premier youth basketball league

An action-packed Sunday brought the curtains down on a highly successful 1st Term for the Dubai Open for Basketball Academies (DOBA). As many as 1,220 players from 18 different academies participated in the three-month championship. Wild Cats Academy and JAM Academy clinched the coveted U19 Boys’ and Girls’ titles respectively. 

Organised by Sport360X and Sports Mania, DOBA is changing the face of youth basketball in the UAE. This championship is under the supervision of the Dubai Sports Council and the UAE Basketball Association. With the help of integrated International Basketball Federation (FIBA) live statistics, it seamlessly held 279 matches in the first Term in two venues: The Swiss School (Jaddaf) and The Citizen School (Al Satwa).

During this term, an average of 30 games were played every week across 14 separate categories. Using FIBA statistics, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) was picked for each game. After the finals, an MVP of the tournament was also announced for each category. 

Prominent faces from the national and international basketball communities were in attendance for Sunday’s finals and award ceremonies. Dubai Basketball Club’s (DBC) star players Ahmad Dwairi and Awudu Abass were among the esteemed guests who graced the occasion.

The league’s success was made possible with the help of multiple sponsors. Anta and Curaprox were the title and gold sponsors respectively. Fade Fit and Burjeel Hospital were the other sponsors, along with Mai Dubai (Hydration Partner) and OWQLO (Official Operating System).

LEAGUE WINNERS IN EACH CATEGORY

  • U19 Boys: Wild Cats Academy
  • U19 Girls: JAM Academy
  • U16 Boys Division 1: Falcons Academy
  • U16 Boys Division 2: Mowen Academy
  • U16 Girls: NBA Basketball School
  • U14 Girls: Wild Cats Academy
  • U14 Boys Division 1: 24 Basketball Academy
  • U14 Boys Division 2: AD Knights Academy
  • U12 Boys Division 1: Mowen Academy
  • U12 Boys Division 2: JD Academy
  • U12 Girls NBA Basketball School
  • U10 Boys Division 1: JAM Academy
  • U10 Boys Division 2: JD Academy

 

MVP OF THE TOURNAMENT IN EACH CATEGORY

  • U19 Boys: Aleksa Petrovic (Wild Cats)
  • U19 Girls: Anja Obradovic (JAM)
  • U16 Boys Division 1: Gustav Vilcans (Falcons)
  • U16 Boys Division 2: Monghit (Mowen)
  • U16 Girls: Thea Awad (NBA)
  • U14 Girls: Maria Coll (Wild Cats)
  • U14 Boys Division 1: Rohit Rajkumar (24 Basketball)
  • U14 Boys Division 2: Tadaki Kishida (AD Knight)
  • U12 Boys Division 1: Gabriel Ocampo (Mowen)
  • U12 Boys Division 2: Chas Khamis (JD)
  • U12 Girls: Ameli Rizan (NBA)
  • U10 Boys Division 1: Joe El Helou (JAM)
  • U10 Boys Division 2: Joud Hergli (JD)

Term 2 of DOBA promises to be even grander with 110 teams and 1,400 players on board. 450 games will be held in this term which tips off on January 18, with the finals slated for May 31 and June 1. It will also include several basketball clinics conducted by prominent coaches and a parents’ orientation workshop.

A New Era: Sport Industry Forum and Sports Industry Awards unite under Sport Industry Series

The Sport Industry Forum (SIF), established by Interact and the Sports Industry Awards (SPIA), established by Sport360X are excited to announce a game-changing partnership that will bring together two of the UAE’s most prominent sports events under one – the Sport Industry Series.

This collaboration, revealed at the recent Sport Industry Forum in Abu Dhabi earlier this month, saw Interact Founder and Director Sally Corander and Sport360X Managing Director Bassam Nawfal officially sign the contract on this exciting new chapter for the region’s sports industry.

By combining the skills and network of both Interact and Sport 360X, this partnership will create even greater value for the region’s sport sector. The Sport Industry Series will be the ultimate platform for sports professionals across the UAE.


The partnership will preserve the unique identities of SPIA and SIF while benefiting from the collaborative opportunities the Sport Industry Series provides. A new podcast and a series of networking events will also be launched as a part of the partnership, offering continuous opportunities for learning, collaboration, and growth throughout the year.

Sally Corander, Founder and Director of Interact, commented: “Both organisations bring unique strengths to the table, and together, we’ll deliver an even bigger stage for innovation, recognition, and growth in the region’s sports sector. It’s a partnership that makes sense and I am excited for the future!”

Bassam Nawfal, Managing Director Sport360X, added: “This collaboration between SPIA and SIF marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Sports Industry Awards. Sport Industry Series allows us to synergise our strengths and offer expanded opportunities for recognition and networking. Our combined efforts will elevate the visibility and impact of our events, propelling the sports industry to new heights.”

About Sport Industry Forum (SIF):

The Sport Industry Forum, established by Interact, is the leading sport business conference for networking, knowledge sharing, and thought leadership. It brings together professionals, innovators, and decision-makers to discuss the latest trends and challenges in sports.

About Sports Industry Awards (SPIA):

The Sports Industry Awards, established by Sport360X, celebrate excellence in the sports sector, recognising outstanding achievements by individuals, teams, and organisations. SPIA highlights the best practices and innovations that drive the sports industry forward.

More information and exclusive updates can be found at www.sportindustryseries.com

MEDIA CONTACTS

India Beckwith, Interact – E: [email protected]

Marketing Team, Sport360X – E: [email protected]

Sport360X extends commitment to ‘support new generation’ of basketball talents at 6th edition of DOBA

Sport360X is proud to extend its active role developing outstanding young talents as a new managing partner for the sixth edition of Dubai Open Basketball Academies Championship [DOBA], according to Managing Director Bassam Nawfal.

More than 1,200 male and female players of different age groups will participate in the upcoming tournament, forming more than 80 teams that will play 300 matches in Term 1 from September 29-December 8. This exposure to elite competition is set to run throughout the 2024/25 season, with scouts on hand to select the brightest to join a special program by Dubai Sports Council.

Sport360X’s stellar reputation earned since 2010 as a leading digital publisher and sports events agency has seen it selected to help run the latest edition. The company’s strong commitment to youth basketball projects further includes being operators of the landmark Jr. NBA League in Abu Dhabi.

Speaking at Thursday’s press conference at the headquarters of organisers Dubai Sports Council, Sport360X’s Nawfal promised a renewed focus on identifying “distinguished talents” to “support the new generation in basketball”.

He said: “We thank the Dubai Sports Council for the trust they have given us to organise this tournament. We are pleased to support the new generation in basketball, and we thank the academies and clubs participating in the tournament.

“There will be a major development in this tournament, as there will be a program to identify distinguished talents to help them reach higher levels in basketball. Talent scouts from the tournament’s organising committee will be present at all tournament matches to select the best talents to join the talent program launched by the Dubai Sports Council.”

Players from ages eight to 18, of both genders, will participate, divided into Division 1 and Division 2 based on their basketball levels.

Competition matches will take place three days a week, supervised by referees from UAE Basketball Association to determine winners in each age group.

Sport360X and Sports Mania are managing partners for DOBA, while OWQLO is Official Operating System.

ANTA Sports is the Title Sponsor, while Plan B, Curaprox, FadeFit, and Mai Dubai are silver sponsors.

“We are pleased to launch the sixth edition of the tournament, which comes within the framework of the Dubai Government’s plan for 2033, and within the Dubai Sports Council’s policy to attract and develop sports talents,” said Ahmed Salem Al Mahri, Director of the Sports Development Department at Dubai Sports Council.

“This tournament is a great platform for our players, from talented to amateurs, to discover their passion for this exciting sport. The tournament is also a major source for attracting and developing sports talents in basketball, as it provides sports club teams, private academies and the national team with the best talented players.

“Our goal is to provide a platform for challenge and fair competition to give the opportunity to private clubs and academies spread throughout Dubai to choose the best talents to join their teams. We at the Dubai Sports Council will ensure that these talents continue to play and maintain their level until they reach the professional stage.”

About Sport360X

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sports stories since 2010 across video, social, gaming and events.  Access is provided to more than 15 million followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views. The Agency works alongside some of the region’s biggest clubs and organisations generating ground-breaking content daily to help engage fans and drive global best practices. Sport360X events are showstoppers across a range of different executions and bespoke client activations.

Sport360Arabiya Wins Best Sports Platform at the Arab Media Forum

Dubai, UAE – May 28, 2024 – Sport360Arabiya was honoured with the prestigious Best Sports Platform award at the Arab Media Forum (AMF). The 22nd edition of the awards - organised as part of Day 2 of the Arab Media Summit 2024 - took place on Tuesday, May 28 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

The AMF is the Middle East's largest media thought leadership event, organised by the Dubai Press Club under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE.

Sport360Arabiya is the Arabic publishing arm of Sport360X, flourishing on various social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X while also retaining a large website audience. It is dedicated to providing comprehensive sports news, analysis, and exclusive content to audiences across the Arab world. With a commitment to excellence in sports journalism, Sport360Arabiya connects fans with the latest developments in the world of sports through its innovative and engaging approach.

This remarkable achievement is a testament to Sport360Arabiya’s editorial team's relentless dedication to delivering top-notch sports content, insightful analysis, and engaging experiences for its passionate audience across the region. The award highlights the platform’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of sports journalism and fostering a deep connection with sports enthusiasts.

"We are incredibly proud to receive this esteemed award," said Bassam Nawfal, Sport360X Managing Director. "It is a reflection of the hard work and commitment of our entire team. Their dedication to excellence in sports media has been instrumental in earning this recognition. We are also immensely grateful to our loyal readers and fans, whose support and engagement inspire us to continually strive for greatness."

Sport360Arabiya has consistently set itself apart by providing comprehensive and innovative sports coverage, leveraging multimedia platforms to reach a broad audience. The platform’s success is driven by its ability to deliver up-to-the-minute sports news, in-depth analysis, and exclusive content that resonates with sports fans.

As Sport360Arabiya celebrates this significant milestone, it remains focused on its mission to bring the latest and greatest in sports coverage to its audience. The platform looks forward to continuing its journey of excellence and innovation in sports media.

About Sport360X

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15m followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.

SPIA 2024 winners awarded at gala ceremony in Atlantis, The Palm

The 11th edition of the Sports Industry Awards (SPIA) turned out to be a big hit as close to 400 guests reveled in a celebratory night at Atlantis, The Palm.

The annual awards gala is organised by Sport360X, with the continued support of Dubai Sports Council. Thursday night turned out to be a celebration of the regional sports industry, with multiple winners being honoured across multiple categories.

Victors for as many as 14 categories were picked by an independent panel of judges, comprising industry stalwarts chosen for their expertise in the Middle East sports ecosphere.

Principal partners for the 2024 edition were Inter Emirates Motors. They are the exclusive distributors of MG Motor in the UAE. Award-winning marketing agency Plan B was one of two gold sponsors this year.

Luxury event transportation company – Motus - was the other gold sponsor.

SPIA was also honoured to have Spanish giant Marca as Official Media Partner for this year’s event.

“I have been following SPIA since its inception. It has been fascinating to watch not only the development of the sports industry, but also this awards ceremony,” said Fadi Zouein - Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer of Al Jazira F.C.

“For any company or sporting event, recognition is important. It is always a massive boost to see your efforts being rewarded. It is what SPIA does very well and I have been delighted to see their transformation over the years,” he added.

Big winners on the night included DP World Tour, who took home trophies across three separate categories. They clinched ‘Best Sports Event CSR Initiative’ for their work with the Tommy Fleetwood Academy.

Another crowning moment was ‘Best Sponsorship Collaboration’ for the Ryder Cup. DP World Tour also won ‘Best Branded Content’ for the viral collaboration between Lando Norris and Tommy Fleetwood.

The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 was the other major winner on Thursday. They clinched golds in ‘Best Sports Event (Budget 3 Million USD and above)’ and ‘Best Use of Social and Digital Media in Sports’ among a total of three awards.

They were also judged as joint winners in ‘Best Sports Marketing Campaign’ category to cap off a memorable evening. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix shared the prestigious award with the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023 Presented by ADQ.

Meanwhile, Motus One was crowned as the ‘Best Professional Services Team’, while 160OVER90 clinched the award for ‘Best Agency’.

Sport360X’s Managing Director Bassam Nawfal was elated with the response generated by the awards night.

“Sport360X is proud to have hosted another successful edition of SPIA,” he said after the event.

“It is a unique night which celebrates the best of the sports industry in the region and it has been getting bigger with each passing year. The Middle East’s sports industry has been undergoing a massive boom and it is essential to recognise these success stories.

“I would like to congratulate all the nominees and winners, on the night. Above all, thanks to all our partners and sponsors without whom this incredible night would not be possible.”

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15m followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.

For more information, please visit spiame.com.

Basketball Super League gathers Riyadh’s most-passionate amateur players for the first time

Basketball Super League is gathering Riyadh’s most-passionate amateur players for the first time, in a battle for glory.

After the tournament’s successful editions in the UAE, Lebanon and Oman, it’s now landed in Saudi Arabia. Under the supervision of the Saudi Arabian Basketball Federation, with support from the Ministry of Sport and organised by leading digital publisher and sports consultancy agency Sport360X, eight teams are competing for the inaugural title which will be decided during May 29’s final

All games are covered by talented photographers and videographers, with a comprehensive social-media strategy furthering the competition’s reach. Match coverage is enhanced with live FIBA statistics.

Action began on March 11, 2024. A minimum of eight games are guaranteed for each team.

The first round is being held in a round-robin league format. Based on the final rankings, teams will then face each other in the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final.

<pWe Clean are Title Sponsor, Antal are Sportswear Partner and OPS are Gold Sponsor.

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15 million followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.

Other regular events run since Sport360X was founded in 2010 include the Sports Industry Awards (SPIA) and FIT Awards.

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15 million followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.

Other regular events run since Sport360X was founded in 2010 include the Sports Industry Awards (SPIA) and FIT Awards.

NBA 3X ABU DHABI an unparalleled success with legends LaMarcus Aldridge and James Worthy in attendance

The inaugural edition of NBA 3X ABU DHABI brought unparalleled excitement to the capital city from January 25 to 28.

Hosted by the NBA in collaboration with Sport360X, the four-day event showcased the thrilling world of 3x3 streetball, attracting 54 teams and over 200 players from across the region.

The presence of NBA Legends LaMarcus Aldridge and James Worthy ensured the event was a memorable one, along with ADQ COO Anas Al Barguthi, who also presided over the closing ceremony.

Throughout the tournament, a total of 89 games were fiercely contested, captivating audiences with fast-paced action and unparalleled skill. Divided into four categories – Youth Girls (Under 18), Youth Boys (Under 18), Women (Above 18), and Men (Above 18) – the competition showcased the depth of talent and passion for basketball in Abu Dhabi.

Adding to the excitement, the Dunking Devils graced the event with their electrifying performances, thrilling spectators with jaw-dropping dunks. Their presence, along with the mesmerising skills of the freestylers, contributed to the vibrant atmosphere that permeated the tournament grounds.

Two beloved NBA mascots, Franklin The Dog from the Philadelphia 76ers and Slamson The Lion from the Sacramento Kings, delighted fans with their energetic appearances, engaging the crowd and adding an extra layer of entertainment to the festivities. From interactive performances to distributing gifts, the mascots left a lasting impression on attendees of all ages.

Complementing the on-court action, NBA Fit Clinics provided valuable opportunities for aspiring young athletes to hone their skills under the guidance of Jr. NBA basketball coaches. Special Olympics clinics further underscored the event's commitment to inclusivity, with around 30 participants showcasing their abilities and spirit of sportsmanship.

The event also featured thrilling skill challenges and shooting contests, with 74 participants showcasing their individual talents and competing for top honours in their respective categories.

NBA 3X ABU DHABI exemplified the NBA's commitment to bringing the excitement of basketball to fans around the world.

Sport360X has been telling the Middle East’s very best sport stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.

Access is provided to more than 15 million followers on Sport360X’s native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.

Other regular events run since Sport360X was founded in 2010 include the Sports Industry Awards (SPIA) and FIT Awards.