Wednesday, 28 January 2026| Dubai, UAE [ Posted at 5:36 pm ]
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026 is set to kick off the Middle East tennis swing in style, bringing world-class women’s tennis back to the UAE. As a WTA Abu Dhabi 500 event, it serves as the first major stop after the Australian Open and a crucial warm-up before Dubai and Doha.
Related reads – Novak Djokovic Becomes a ‘Centurion’
Australian Open 2026 Prize Money Smashes Records With $111.5 Million Purse
What Is the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open?
Overview: A key WTA 500 tournament shaping the early 2026 season.
The tournament runs from January 31 to February 7, 2026, featuring 28 singles players and 16 doubles teams. Now in its fourth year, the tournament has rapidly grown into a flagship WTA event in the region.
Key highlights include:
- WTA 500 status
- First major event after the Australian Open
- Eight days of competitive tennis
- Free opening day and family-focused activities
Taking place at the iconic Zayed Sports City, the event promises elite competition, rising stars, family-friendly activities and global viewership, making it one of the most anticipated sporting events on the UAE calendar.
Star-Studded Player Line-Up at WTA Abu Dhabi
Overview: A mix of proven champions and exciting new faces.
The WTA Abu Dhabi entry list is stacked with talent, led by world-class names and breakthrough stars.
Top Seeds and Big Names
- Elena Rybakina (World No. 5): Wimbledon champion and top seed
- Belinda Bencic: Defending champion and Olympic gold medallist
- Ekaterina Alexandrova: Consistent Top 10 threat
- Barbora Krejcikova: Four-time Grand Slam champion (protected ranking)
- Sofia Kenin: Former Australian Open champion
- Jelena Ostapenko: Roland Garros winner
Rising Stars to Watch
- Victoria Mboko: Montreal champion and one of the most exciting young players on tour
- Alexandra Eala: First Filipina in the WTA Top 50, Miami Open semifinalist
- Janice Tjen: Indonesian star on a rapid rise after her Chennai title
The presence of Rybakina, Bencic and Mboko alone makes the event one of the strongest WTA events of the early season.
Wild Cards, Comebacks and Notable Absences
Overview: Fresh storylines add intrigue to the draw.
Key comebacks include:
- Alexandra Eala and Janice Tjen have received main-draw wild cards, highlighting the WTA’s push toward emerging Asian talent.
- Zheng Qinwen returns after missing the Australian Open due to injury.
- Marketa Vondrousova has withdrawn because of a shoulder issue.
- Meanwhile, Karolina Pliskova continues her comeback journey elsewhere, adding context to the competitive depth of the tour this week.
When Are the Draw and Schedule Confirmed?
Overview: Key dates for fans planning attendance or viewing.
- Draw confirmation: Between January 29–31, 2026
- Match schedule: Released on January 31, one day before play begins
The draw ceremony will take place live on opening day during Family Day, adding to the fan experience.
Read more – Novak Djokovic Battles Heat and History to Reach Shanghai Masters Semi-Finals at 38
The Ultimate Guide to UAE Driving License Conversion (2026 Edition)
Tickets & Fan Experience
Overview: One of the most family-friendly sports events in the UAE.
Ticket details:
- Opening day (January 31): Free entry for everyone
- Kids go free: February 2–4
- Prices start from Dhs25
- Tickets available via Platinumlist
Off-court attractions include:
- Tennis Village games and workshops
- Kids’ play zones and sports clinics
- Giant Jenga, arcade challenges and prize passports
- First-ever wheelchair tennis invitational (February 5–7)
This makes the Abu Dhabi Open more than just a tennis tournament, it’s a full family outing.
Predictions: Who Will Win?
Overview: Experts weigh in on the likely champion.
All players are capable of winning the title. Yet, analysts have placed bids on:
- Victoria Mboko: Tipped by TennisUpToDate’s Head Editor as a breakout champion
- Elena Rybakina: Favourite due to her serve and big-match experience
- Belinda Bencic: Proven winner in Abu Dhabi with momentum from past success
With such depth, the WTA Abu Dhabi title race is wide open, but Rybakina remains the safest bet for many analysts.
How to Watch Abu Dhabi Open: Streaming in USA, UK & Australia
Overview: Global coverage ensures fans don’t miss a moment.
Streaming options include:
- USA: ESPN, Tennis Channel
- UK: TNT Sports, Discovery+
- Australia: Nine, Stan Sport
Local UAE broadcasters and digital platforms will also carry selected matches.
FAQs
1. Where is the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open held?
At the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi.
2. Who is the defending champion?
Belinda Bencic won the title last year.
3. Is Elena Rybakina playing in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, Elena Rybakina is the top seed at the WTA Abu Dhabi event.
4. Are Alexandra Eala and Victoria Mboko playing?
Yes, both are part of the main draw.
Final Thoughts
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026 perfectly blends elite tennis, emerging talent and a festival-like atmosphere. With stars like Elena Rybakina, Belinda Bencic, Victoria Mboko, Alexandra Eala and Janice Tjen, the WTA Abu Dhabi event is set to deliver unforgettable moments both on and off the court.
Read more – How to Move Your Family to the UAE Without Chaos
