He Sports industry forum returns this year on the Yas Marina Circuit – bigger, bolder and coinciding with the NBA Games in Abu Dhabi for two unmissable days of sport, business and innovation.
Since 2014, the Forum has transformed from a small UAE gathering to the the destiny of the region Meeting point for more than 450 leaders from government, sports and business..
It is where the UAE National Sports Strategy was launched, where NBA executives brought audiences to their feet, where global brands such as Mubadala, DP World and Etihad revealed why they invest in sport and where the partnerships that shape the future of Middle East sport are established.
This is not another conference. This is the room where it happens.
- Great strategies revealed. Government leaders on stage, answering questions.
- Agreements were closed. From grassroots initiatives to multi-million dollar event partnerships.
- Global names meet with regional decision makers. Charting the future of sport in the Middle East.
Who will take the stage in 2025?
- Alexis Ohanianco-founder of Reddit and founding owner of Angel City FC
- John TerryFormer Chelsea FC and England captain
- Robbie FowlerFormer Liverpool FC and England striker
- HE Ghanim Al HajeriUndersecretary, UAE Ministry of Sports
- HE Ahmed Ismail Al HosaniExecutive Director of Support Services Sector, Abu Dhabi Sports Council
- Kelly FlatowExecutive Vice President of Global Events, NBA
- Danny TownsendCEO, SURJ Sports Investment
- andres thompsonGeneral Manager, SailGP
- Saif Rashid Al NoaimiCEO, Ethara and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
- brown tadCEO, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (Philadelphia 76ers)
- Jamaal LesaneDirector of Operations, Madison Square Garden Sports (New York Knicks)
Sessions will get to the point: Saudi Arabia’s investment playbook, Abu Dhabi’s next steps, the rise of women’s sport, leadership lessons from athletes, how brands measure return on investment in sport and how AI is transforming the fan experience.
And the networks? Safety pin. From Paddle Networking Afternoon (September 30) to lunches and exclusive reception at Saadiyat Beach ClubIt’s where deals are closed.
If you want to know Where the money, strategy and opportunities are heading in Middle Eastern sport: you have to be here.
The 2025 Forum has the proud support of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabihe Community Development Departmentand the Abu Dhabi Sports Councilwith official partners Ethara and OVG Middle East.
Register to secure your spot today: Sports Industry Forum 2025 in Abu Dhabi
