Netball is a rapidly growing sport in the UAE, it is governed by the UAE Netball Association, which oversees various leagues, tournaments, and training programs.

Did you know that Netball has been played in the United Arab Emirates for over 4 decades?

A strong characteristic of Netball in this country is its’ aspect of community. Clubs organise social events, family days, and charity matches to foster a festive and exciting ambience. The sport provides an excellent space for residents to connect and stay active.

‘Active Netball League’ is Dubai’s number 1 Netball League. It launched in 2010 to help in expanding coaching structures, outside of school netball teams. This has allowed the growth of various clubs and equipped players in the UAE for bigger dreams.

Other leagues include the Dubai Super Cup, an annual tournament with teams from all over the UAE and occasionally international teams. There is also Inter-Emirate Championships, a competition with teams from different emirates.

Netball games happen on Tuesdays and Thursdays at The Sevens Stadium, Dubai, where over 25 teams across the country play competitively in the Active Netball League.

Other key venues where various Netball tournaments and activities are hosted include Dubai Sports City, Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi and American University of Sharjah, which regularly hosts club matches and tournaments.

To further progress as a sport and create more opportunities for the UAE community, a National Governing Body was created in 2017. Following this, in 2018, UAE netball became a member of Europe Netball and World Netball.

UAE Netball, a volunteer-based organisation, collaborates with Active Netball to provide netball opportunities for individuals of all ages and skill levels. They aim to increase international exposure for UAE national teams and host international competitions in the UAE. This affiliation has allowed them to compete on the International Stage for the first time at U17 & Open (Senior) levels.

In total, there are 44 countries listed in the World Netball world rankings. UAE Netball has been ranked 25th overall following only 6 competitions.

There are various opportunities for new players looking to get involved in UAE Netball:

Dubai Hurricanes Youth Netball is a part of Dubai’s biggest rugby clubs. The Hurricanes provide top-tier coaching to children from the age of four and upwards, along with the opportunity to be part of the club’s community.

Dubai Exiles Youth Netball- who provide training from the age of seven and up.

Sharjah Wanderers Club- who have a newer netball team for women since 2023.

There is also Dubai Netball Club, one of the oldest and most successful clubs in the country. Abu Dhabi Netball Club, a popular club with a strong focus on youth development. And finally, Sharjah Netball Club, a club popular for its inclusive approach, welcoming players from all backgrounds.