How a new club from Dubai conquered the ABA League
In short: Founded in 2023, Dubai Basketball has rapidly ascended the European basketball hierarchy. Within just two seasons, the club transitioned from a newcomer to an ABA League champion, bypassing local leagues to compete on the continent's most prestigious stages.
The emergence of Dubai Basketball represents a significant strategic move to foster basketball development in the United Arab Emirates. Established by founders Abdulla Saeed Juma Al Naboodah and Dejan Kamenjašević, the club opted to bypass the UAE National Basketball League entirely. Instead, they sought entry into established European structures, securing a three-season term in the ABA League in January 2024.
The club's rise was marked by immediate competitive success and significant financial investment. During its debut ABA season, the team secured a playoff spot by defeating notable opponents like Red Star Belgrade, Partizan, Zadar, and Cedevita Olimpija. Their first professional victory occurred on September 22, 2024, against Red Star Belgrade. By their second season, the club achieved a historic milestone, winning the 2025/26 ABA League title with a 3-1 series victory over Partizan Belgrade.
This rapid ascent is supported by substantial resources, including a €16 million player budget for their inaugural EuroLeague season. Following their ABA success, the club secured a five-year license to compete in the EuroLeague starting in the 2025–26 season. The team plays its home matches at the Coca-Cola Arena, a venue with a capacity of 15,000 to 17,000 seats.
The roster has featured high-profile talent, including NBA veteran Dāvis Bertāns and early signings like Nate Mason and head coach Jurica Golemac. This combination of regional investment and European competition marks a distinct new chapter for professional basketball in the Middle East.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Dubai Basketball
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