Dubai has taken a major step toward cementing its position as a global sports hub with the launch of the Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033, unveiled on 13 November 2025 at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex.

The comprehensive plan outlines a bold vision to elebate Dubai’s sports sector, unlock its economic potential, to officialy make the city the world’s leading sporting destination by 2033.

During the ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed unveiled Dubai’s new sports identity – a unifying emblem designed to bring together the entire sporting community under a single, modern symbol. Selected from thousands of public submissions by designers and creatives, the new identity represents the start of an exciting new chapter for sport in Dubai, embodying the emirate’s aspirations to be a global destination for athletes, events, innovation, and excellence.

Among the distinguished speakers was Dejan Kamenjašević, General Manager of Dubai Basketball, who was invited to share the club’s success story alongside His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.

As the first and only professional sports franchise representing Dubai, Dubai Basketball holds a unique role in carrying the emirate’s identity onto the international stage – specifically amongst Europe’s elite basketball teams. Speaking at the event, Kamenjašević highlighted the privilege and responsibility of representing Dubai globally, especially at a time when the city’s sporting ambitions are reaching new heights.

Kamenjašević’s vision for Dubai Basketball began more than a decade ago and has flourished thanks to the emirate’s continuous investment in positioning itself as a global sports hub. Only two seasons since its establishment, the club has already made history as the first team from the Gulf region to compete in both the EuroLeague and the ABA League, marking a significant milestone for regional basketball.

To sustain this momentum and support the growth of elite basketball, the Dubai Basketball Academy plays a vital role in nurturing young talent. The academy provides aspiring athletes with top-tier training opportunities, access to professional coaching, and exposure to a network of world-class players. It aims to inspire, engage, and empower the next generation; ensuring that Dubai’s rise in global basketball is built on a strong foundation of local development.

-ENDS-

About Dubai Basketball: 

Founded in 2023, Dubai Basketball is a newly established professional basketball franchise that plays in Europe’s EuroLeague and Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League for the 2025/26 season. The franchise has assembled a strong roster of players led by Head Coach Jurica Golemac. The club plays their home games at Coca-Cola Arena.

Dubai Basketball stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in shaping the landscape of basketball in the UAE and beyond. Its foundation is built upon a diverse and talented team, consisting of FIBA-certified coaches, former professional players, business experts, and passionate enthusiasts.

Dubai Basketball is committed to catalysing positive social change, where dreams are not just envisioned but realised, talents are not merely found but nurtured, and aspirations are not only lived but fulfilled.

Keep up to date with the latest news on Dubai Basketball by visiting www.dubaibasketball.com or on social media platforms:

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/dubaibasketballclub
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dubaibasketballclub/
X – https://x.com/dubaibasket
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@DubaiBasketball

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