DUBAI: Dubai is set to become a new stop on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour, with the emirate hosting a Masters event on November 8–9, 2026, as the international basketball circuit enters the final stages of its season.
The event will bring some of the world’s leading 3×3 basketball teams and players to Dubai, with ranking points and prize money available during the competition. FIBA said the field is expected to include world and European champions, Olympians and top-ranked teams.
Dubai’s inclusion is part of a three-year partnership between the emirate and FIBA 3×3, which will keep the Masters event in Dubai through 2028. The venue for the 2026 tournament has not yet been announced.
Dubai enters the World Tour calendar
The 2026 FIBA 3×3 World Tour began in Utsunomiya, Japan, on April 25–26 before moving through a series of international destinations across Asia and Europe.
Dubai’s tournament will arrive near the end of the regular World Tour calendar and ahead of the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final in Rio de Janeiro on December 12–13.
For Dubai, the addition creates another opportunity to stage an international sporting event involving elite athletes. FIBA Managing Director of 3×3 Alex Sanchez said the partnership reflects Dubai’s position as a major destination for tourism, entertainment and international sport.
The Dubai Sports Council also sees the event as part of its broader strategy for developing basketball and creating opportunities for local players.
Eisa Sharif, Director of Events at Dubai Sports Council, said bringing the World Tour to Dubai supports the emirate’s efforts to grow basketball and aligns with the Dubai Sports Strategic Plan 2033. He also highlighted the potential for local talent to interact with and learn from international players.
Why 3×3 basketball is different
Unlike traditional five-a-side basketball, FIBA 3×3 is played between two teams of three players on a half-court. The format is designed for short, fast matches, with each possession carrying greater weight.
FIBA describes 3×3 as its official urban basketball discipline. The sport made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020, returned at Paris 2024 and is scheduled to feature again at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
The World Tour is the professional men’s circuit for the discipline. Teams compete for ranking points and prize money throughout the season, with performances contributing to the race for places at the World Tour Final.
The compact format has also helped 3×3 develop a different event atmosphere from conventional basketball. FIBA says music, entertainment and crowd interaction form an important part of the live experience surrounding its World Tour events.
Dubai event details
For the 2026 Dubai Masters, FIBA has confirmed the following:
- Event: FIBA 3×3 World Tour Masters
- Location: Dubai, UAE
- Dates: November 8–9, 2026
- Partnership: Three years, covering events through 2028
- Venue: Yet to be announced
- World Tour Final: Rio de Janeiro, December 12–13, 2026
- Media accreditation deadline: November 5, 2026
The exact participating teams and additional event information are expected to be confirmed as preparations progress.
For basketball followers in the UAE, the Dubai stop will provide an opportunity to watch international 3×3 competition on home soil while giving local players and fans closer access to one of the sport’s top professional circuits.
The event also adds another international sports property to Dubai’s calendar, with the three-year agreement giving the emirate a continuing place on the FIBA 3×3 World Tour beyond the 2026 edition.
What is happening in Dubai in November 2026?
Dubai will host a FIBA 3×3 World Tour Masters on November 8–9, 2026. It will be the emirate’s addition to the 2026 World Tour calendar.
When will the FIBA 3×3 World Tour Dubai event take place?
The latest official FIBA announcement lists the Dubai Masters for November 8–9, 2026.
Where will the FIBA 3×3 Dubai event be held?
The event will take place in Dubai, but FIBA has not yet announced the venue.
How long will Dubai host the FIBA 3×3 World Tour?
Dubai has entered a three-year partnership with FIBA 3×3, securing the Masters event in the emirate through 2028.
Who will compete at the Dubai 3×3 event?
FIBA says fans can expect leading 3×3 players and teams, including world champions, European champions, Olympians and top-ranked teams.
What is FIBA 3×3 basketball?
FIBA 3×3 is a fast-paced basketball format played by two teams of three players on a half-court. It is an Olympic discipline and forms the basis of FIBA’s professional World Tour.
When is the 2026 FIBA 3×3 World Tour Final?
The 2026 World Tour Final is scheduled for December 12–13 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
When is media accreditation due for the Dubai event?
FIBA says media applications for the Dubai World Tour event must be submitted by November 5, 2026.
