New 2,000-seat Court 1 to debut at 2026 tournament as venue undergoes biggest upgrade in 30-year history
By Robert Ilsley, Sports Reporter
Last updated: February 13, 2026 | 3 min read
DUBAI — The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is set for a dramatic transformation, with organisers unveiling a two-phase redevelopment of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium and Aviation Club Tennis Complex—the most significant upgrade in the event’s 30-year history.
What’s Coming in 2026
Fans attending this year’s tournament, which begins Sunday, will be the first to experience the changes:
| 2026 Upgrades | Details |
|---|---|
| New Court 1 | Temporary 2,000-seat show court adjacent to main stadium |
| Access | Free registration via Ticketmaster |
| Matches | Hosts high-profile WTA 1000 and ATP 500 matches |
| Public Areas | Initial fan-zone enhancements on southern side |
Tickets for the 2026 Championships start from Dh65, with sales already open.
The second phase, scheduled for completion ahead of the 2027 tournament, will deliver:
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Centre Court expansion: +2,500 seats (≈50% capacity increase)
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Upgraded concourses, seating, and hospitality zones
-
Fully reimagined Northern and Southern Fan Villages
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Activation areas, shaded seating, expanded F&B offerings
Why This Matters
“These redevelopment works represent a defining moment for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free and Tournament Organising Committee Chair.
“For more than three decades, this venue has been central to Dubai’s sporting identity. These upgrades and expansions ensure we continue to raise the bar in line with the city’s global ambitions.”
Salah Tahlak, Tournament Director and Deputy Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, added:
“Our priority has always been to create an atmosphere where players feel at home and fans enjoy world-class entertainment. The upgraded facilities reflect our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.”
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 2026 Tournament Dates | Begins Sunday (February 15) |
| New Court 1 Access | Free with registration (Ticketmaster) |
| Ticket Prices | From Dh65 |
| Full Completion | 2027 Championships |
The redevelopment ensures Dubai’s premier tennis event keeps pace with the city’s rapid growth—offering players a world-class stage and fans an experience worthy of the game’s biggest stars.