ABU DHABI: The landscape of global tennis is shifting, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
Long known for its passion for sport, the region has in recent years rapidly evolved into a major player in world tennis, hosting marquee events, attracting top talent, and facilitating the evolution of the sport – particularly in the female game.
As the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open prepares for its third edition (Feb. 1-8) at the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, the tournament stands as a testament to the region’s growing prominence in the sport.
More than just another stop on the WTA calendar, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open is actively shaping the future of the game in the region, providing a platform for female athletes and potentially inspiring the next generation of local players.
MENA’s rise as a tennis powerhouse is no coincidence. The region has strategically positioned itself as a key destination for professional tournaments, with world-class facilities and lucrative incentives drawing the sport’s biggest names.
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, and now Riyadh have become regular hosts of high-profile events, culminating in Ƶ’s historic hosting of the WTA Finals in 2024.
This move underscores the region’s ambitions, not just as a host, but as a transformative force in global tennis.
The WTA Finals’ move to Riyadh from November last year represents a milestone moment, reflecting the growing investment and commitment to women’s sports. This is not merely a financial play; it is a statement of intent.
The backing of such prestigious events signals a long-term vision to foster elite competition, nurture local talent, and make the region an integral part of the professional tennis circuit.
Within this broader evolution, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has carved out a unique role. Established in 2023, the tournament has quickly grown into a crucial early-season event that not only attracts top-ranked players but also provides emerging stars with a valuable competitive platform.
The tournament’s impact extends beyond the court. It has become a beacon for the development of women’s tennis, particularly in a region where opportunities for female athletes have historically been limited. The tournament’s emphasis on inclusivity and development aligns with the broader movement to elevate women’s sports within MENA.
Additionally, through excellent initiatives such as the Road to Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, in which tournaments for aspiring players at all ages (male and female) are held across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah, with prizes including a chance to train at the prestigious Juan Carlos Ferrero Academy in Spain, where Carlos Alcaraz honed his skills, the event is helping to foster a sustainable pipeline of talent in the region.
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of MENA’s tennis transformation is the emergence of homegrown stars.
Ons Jabeur, the Tunisian trailblazer, has become a symbol of possibility for young athletes across the Arab world. As a three-time Grand Slam finalist and one of the most popular players on tour, Jabeur’s success has shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of Arab tennis players.
Her impact is already being felt, with increasing numbers of young players from the region aspiring to follow in her footsteps.
Jabeur well understands her important position for those in the region who want to follow in her footsteps. Jabeur has said: "Being the first Arab woman to achieve worldwide success in tennis, I have become a role model, influencing young athletes all over Tunisia and Africa."
Jabeur is not alone. Rising talents from Egypt, Morocco, and the Gulf are making inroads on the professional circuit, spurred on by the growing visibility of tennis in their home countries.
Born in Texas and representing Lebanon, Hady Habib has made significant strides on the international tennis scene. In 2024, he made history by becoming the first player to represent Lebanon in Olympic tennis, facing world-class opponents such as Carlos Alcaraz.
Ƶ’s Yara Alhogbani, meanwhile, claimed both singles and doubles titles in her junior career before competing, as a 19-year-old, in the qualifying rounds at last year’s Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open.
Although retired, both Morocco’s Younes El Aynaoui and Tunisia’s Malek Jaziri remain influential figures in MENA tennis following solid careers, with their respective legacies continuing to motivate aspiring players across the region.
With increased investment in coaching, facilities, and junior development programmes, MENA is poised to produce even more competitive players in the years to come.
