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Filipino Community Rallies as Alex Eala Advances at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

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Filipino Community Rallies as Alex Eala Advances at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

After weeks of build-up around the city, Women’s Week at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships finally came alive. And on opening day, it didn’t feel like just another international tournament. It felt personal.

Inside the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, Centre Court was packed. Not just with tennis fans, but with kabayans. You could feel it in the noise, see it in the flags, and sense it in the way the crowd showed up for Alex Eala.

Alexandra Eala and a Crowd That Carried Her

For many in the stands, the night revolved around Alex Eala. At just 20 years old and already the highest-ranked Filipino player in WTA history at world No. 40, she stepped onto Centre Court to face American Hailey Baptiste, ranked world No. 39.

Baptiste came into the match as a lucky loser after falling to Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova in the final round of qualifiers. On paper and in stature, she looked the more imposing player. Alex, four years younger and making her Dubai debut, looked unfazed.

As the stands turned into a wave of red, white, and blue (Philippine flag colors), Alex fed off the energy. She chased down balls, absorbed Baptiste’s power, and fired back with clean, crowd-pleasing set wins. After early breaks from both sides, Eala found her moment, broke serve, and calmly closed the first set 6-4.

The second set barely had time to settle. After Baptiste held serve in the opening game, the American was forced to retire with a left abdominal injury. The crowd went quiet, shocked by the sudden ending, before erupting again as Eala addressed them.

“No-one likes advancing in this way.”

“Being on tour, I am starting to discover how difficult it is to maintain your health physically. I’m really hoping that Hailey will bounce back soon.”

Then she turned to the people who had carried her all night. “I’m super happy to be in the next round. This tournament is serving up such great experiences for me, especially playing in front of the best crowd ever. Hello everyone, hello Kabayans! I’m very happy to advance to the next round.”

Next up for Alex Eala is a massive test against the world No. 8 and sixth seed in Dubai. But on this night, it already felt like a breakthrough moment.

Leylah Fernandez and a Match That Refused to End

Earlier in the day, Centre Court witnessed one of those matches that reminds you why live sport hits differently. Canada’s Leylah Fernandez, World No. 27, who also carries Filipino heritage, went head-to-head with Russia’s Liudmila Samsonova, ranked 10 places higher.

Leyla Fernandez wins in the first round

Samsonova edged a tense opening set 7-5, but Fernandez didn’t fade. She came out sharper in the second, building a 5-2 lead before Samsonova clawed her way back to 5-5. Just when it felt like momentum had shifted again, Fernandez held firm, broke serve, and took the set 7-5.

The third set had everything. Fernandez jumped out to a 2-0 lead. Samsonova earned break points and looked ready to swing the match back her way. But with a crowd firmly behind her, Fernandez scrambled, defended, and found winners under pressure. Errors crept into Samsonova’s game, and suddenly Fernandez was up 5-0.

To her credit, Samsonova fought back with three straight games. Serving for the match for the second time, Fernandez reset, held her nerve, and closed it out to eliminate the 13th seed.

Afterwards, Fernandez stayed long after the match, signing caps, shirts, tennis balls, and anything fans could hand over. She didn’t rush the moment.

“It definitely felt different tonight,” said the world No. 27. “I remember the past couple of years I’ve played day matches, sometimes first on, so there weren’t a lot of fans. Today, there were a lot more, and to see so many fans come watch women’s tennis means a lot; it shows the sport is growing, so I’m very happy.”

Asked if Dubai feels like a second home, her answer felt honest and familiar. “Yeah, actually, kind of. It does feel nice because you kind of feel at home. It helps a lot. Sometimes when you’re travelling so much, you forget why you play tennis, and fans always help you to remember. To feel that warmth, that love, and the passion that they have is a lot of fun.”

A Quick Finish Under the Lights

The final match of the night was short and sharp. The Czech Republic’s Sara Bejlek, ranked world No. 38, needed just 75 minutes to dispatch Turkey’s Zeynep Sonmez 6-2, 6-2 under the bright Centre Court lights.

More Big Names Still to Come

Monday brings more star power, including a first-round appearance from Great Britain’s Emma Raducanu, another crowd favorite in Dubai. She faces Italian qualifier Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Court Two at 3pm.

Emma Raducanu in action against Maria Sakka 2ri during the WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2025, Sunday 16th February, 2025.

The 26th edition of the tournament runs from February 15 to 21 and features 16 of the world’s top 20 players and 33 of the top 40. The event is owned and organized by Dubai Duty Free and held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The men’s ATP 500 tournament follows from February 23 to 28.

Tickets for the 2026 Championships are already on sale, starting from AED 65, via dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com and ticketmaster.ae.

The Official Draw Sets the Stage for the 2026 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

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The Official Draw Sets the Stage for the 2026 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

The official draw for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships was held today at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium. It was attended by WTA officials, tournament organizers, Dubai Duty Free management, officials, and selected players competing in this year’s Championships. It confirmed the matchups and tournament pathways for the WTA 1000 event, which runs from February 15 to 24 in Dubai.

The 26th edition of the Championships features one of the strongest fields in the tournament’s history. Sixteen of the world’s top 20 players are in action, alongside six Grand Slam singles champions who collectively hold nine major titles. Matches will be played at the renovated Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.

How the draw opened up

As the draw unfolded, attention quickly turned to the placement of the top seeds and the challenges they could face early in the week.

While the top eight seeds all received first-round byes, top seed and World No. 3 Elena Rybakina—triumphant in Melbourne just a few weeks ago—is on course for a second-round meeting with German Tatjana Maria. On the other half of the draw, No. 2 seed Amanda Anisimova could face two-time Grand Slam winner Barbora Krejcikova—a winner here in 2023—in the Round of 32, should the latter safely negotiate her first-round tie with Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova.

Rybakina’s half of the draw also features the likes of 2023 US Open champion Coco Gauff (No. 3 seed), world No. 9 Elina Svitolina (No. 7 seed), 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko (No. 10 seed), British No. 1 Emma Raducanu and rising star Alex Eala of the Philippines—who will face “lucky loser” Hailey Baptiste of the USA to progress to a second-round tie with 2024 Dubai winner Jasmine Paolini.

The depth of this section of the draw highlights the competitiveness of the tournament, where even seeded players face demanding matchups from the early rounds.

Filipino representation on Centre Court

One of the notable storylines to emerge from the draw involves Alexandra Eala (or Alex Eala to her fans), who attended the draw. She is set to open her campaign on Centre Court tomorrow evening. Playing in Dubai carries added significance for Eala due to the strong Filipino community in the UAE, and her appearance is expected to draw considerable local support.

Filipino representation continues earlier on Centre Court when Leylah Fernandez, the Canadian of Filipino descent, faces 13th seed Liudmila Samsonova. Both matches reflect the growing presence of Filipino athletes on the international tennis stage and their connection with fans in the region.

The atmosphere changes a lot when there are so many excited people. It means a lot for me, because it makes me feel like I’m home when I’m traveling for so many weeks of the year. And I think that feeling is reciprocated for a lot of the overseas Filipino workers. I know there’s a huge population of them here in the Middle East, so it means a lot for people to see themselves in other people. That’s what makes it special here.

The opposite half of the draw

On the other side of the bracket, defending Dubai champion Mirra Andreeva begins her title defense after making history last year as the youngest winner of a WTA 1000 event. She is joined in that half by world No. 6 Jessica Pegula, setting up several potential high-profile encounters as the tournament progresses.

Greek star Maria Sakkari enters the tournament following a semifinal appearance in Doha and will open against American teenager Iva Jovic. The match marks Jovic’s first appearance in the Middle East, and she has already spoken positively about her early impressions of Dubai, including a visit to the Burj Khalifa.

Draw ceremony and tournament updates

The Official Draw was led by WTA Supervisor Clare Wood, with Dubai Duty Free leadership in attendance, including Ramesh Cidambi and Salah Tahlak, along with WTA referee Carlos Ramos.

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026 wildcard Zeynep Sonmez

Tournament organizers also confirmed ongoing venue enhancements, including the introduction of a new Court One with a 2,000-seat capacity and an expanded Tennis Village. Plans are in place to further increase Centre Court seating capacity to 7,500 following the conclusion of this year’s event.

Four wildcards were announced during the draw, awarded to Zeynep Sonmez, Sara Bejlek, Lulu Sun, and Janice Tjen. In a quirk of the draw, Sonmez and Bejlek will face each other in the opening round, with their match scheduled on Centre Court immediately after Eala’s match.

Looking ahead to the tournament week

With 33 of the world’s top 40 players competing and the event held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the 2026 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships continues to strengthen its position on the global tennis calendar.

Tickets for the 2026 Championships are available now, with prices starting from AED65. The tournament will be followed by Dubai’s ATP 500 men’s event, scheduled to run from February 23 to 28.

Metro Diaries in Dubai: A Powerful Live Performance on Migration, Identity, and Life in Between

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Metro Diaries in Dubai: A Powerful Live Performance on Migration, Identity, and Life in Between

What happens in the quiet moments between departure and arrival? The time spent waiting. The thoughts you carry on a train, in an airport, or on the way home after a long day. Metro Diaries lives in those moments.

Born from real migrant stories, Metro Diaries is a live performance shaped by longing, survival, humor, and quiet resilience. These are stories that unfold in transit spaces and emotional in-betweens, stories many people live every day but rarely see reflected on stage.

Casts include Filipinos and Indian to present real-life struggles of expats and migrants

First devised in 2025, Metro Diaries had its world premiere after being commissioned by The Arts Center at New York University Abu Dhabi. The work blends spoken word, movement, dance, and intimate storytelling. It brings together performers from different backgrounds to explore what it truly means to live between countries, cultures, and identities. For the UAE’s deeply multicultural population, these stories feel personal, familiar, and long overdue.

Why this performance matters now

Migration is not an abstract idea in the UAE. It shapes daily life, families, friendships, and futures. At a time when conversations around belonging, displacement, and identity are becoming more open and more urgent, Metro Diaries arrives with timely relevance.

I have seen the rehearsal, and I had goosebumps. In those moments on stage, I heard my own story as a migrant. The humble beginnings, the quiet struggles, the tangled thoughts you carry in your mind but rarely say out loud. It was all there, unfolding in front of me, honest and unfiltered.

This restaging offers a rare moment to pause and reflect. It invites audiences to see themselves, their neighbors, and shared experiences portrayed with care and truth. Metro Diaries does not try to simplify the migrant journey. It rather gives space to its complexity, its contradictions, and the emotional weight so many carry silently every day.

Performance details

Dates and times
February 14, 2026: 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
February 15, 2026: 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM

Venue
SIMA Performing Arts, Warehouse 38, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai

Production
Metro Diaries by 63Kolektib

Co-presenter
SIMA Performing Arts

Genre
Spoken word, theatre, movement

Tickets and information
https://ticketsfy.net/event/metro-diaries-musings-of-a-collective-moving-experience/

Creative Collaborators: The artists & voices behind Metro Diaries

Metro Diaries is shaped by the collaborative voices and movements of:

  • Juan Gonzales, director and co-founder of 63Kolektib, whose migration journey forms the emotional backbone of the performance
  • Rei Co, a dance artist raised in Dubai, whose movement language reflects the experience of second-generation identity and living in between
  • Jomel Duran Reyes, cultural producer and performance maker amplifying Filipino literature and diaspora memory
  • Malavika Suresh, spoken word artist and academic researcher exploring the connection between selfhood and social presence
  • Trixie Danielle, multidisciplinary artist working across theatre, poetry, and storytelling to examine migration, identity, and belonging

Together, they create a collective voice that feels raw, grounded, and deeply human.

A community experience beyond the stage

True to 63Kolektib’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, Metro Diaries goes beyond the stage. In addition, the project extends into the community through free theater and capability workshops designed especially for migrant communities.

These workshops offer participants a safe space to share stories, explore performance as a form of healing, and build solidarity through shared experience. Many audience members from the world premiere described moments of recognition, saying they saw themselves on stage for the first time. That sense of being seen is at the heart of this work.

About 63Kolektib

63Kolektib is an independent performance collective named after the Philippines’ international dialing code, +63. The collective is dedicated to reclaiming stories often silenced or oversimplified, placing migrant experiences at the center through performance, storytelling, and community-rooted art. Their past works include Sulyap 2.0, Mga Kwento ni Lola Basyang, and Litanya ng Mga Inang Wala sa Bayan.

Metro Diaries is not just a performance. It is a mirror. For anyone who has ever lived between places, between languages, or between versions of themselves, this is a story that understands where you are coming from.

Why the UAE Reduces Working Hours During Ramadan

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Why the UAE Reduces Working Hours During Ramadan

Every year during Ramadan, life in the United Arab Emirates changes a bit. One of the biggest changes that people notice is that working hours get shorter for almost everyone. If you are new here, visiting, or wondering why that happens and what it really means, this guide explains it clearly.

What the Rule Is

The UAE’s labor laws require that work hours be reduced by two hours each day for employees during Ramadan. This applies to most workplaces across the country, especially in the private sector. It’s not something employers can ignore or choose to skip just because someone isn’t fasting.

This means if a typical workday is eight hours, employees generally work six hours instead during Ramadan.

Why This Change Happens

There are a few important reasons why the UAE does this:

1. Respect for the Culture and Traditions in the UAE

Ramadan is one of the most significant months in the Islamic calendar. Many residents in the UAE spend more time fasting, praying, and being with family. The reduced hours help people take part in this spiritually meaningful time without being overwhelmed by long workdays.

Even if someone is not Muslim, the wider community becomes quieter during the day and busier in the evenings. Adjusting the workday helps everyone live and function smoothly in this rhythm.

2. Better Balance Between Work and Daily Life

Fasting from sunrise to sunset can be tiring. Cutting work hours gives people time to rest, spend time with family, practice their faith, or just slow down a little. Many employees say this makes it easier to stay productive and positive at work through the month.

Shorter hours can lead to better focus during the time spent at work because people have a chance to recharge and prepare for the day ahead.

Good Things That Happen Because of the Shorter Schedule

The reduced hours are not just about religion. There are positive effects that many people enjoy, whether they are fasting or not:

1. Less Stress and More Energy

Working fewer hours often means people are less tired and more present both at work and at home. With more time in the day to rest or catch up on personal life, many find their energy and mood improve.

2. More Time for Family, Health, and Personal Goals

During Ramadan, people often eat meals with family at sunrise and sunset. With fewer work hours, it becomes easier to make time for these moments, for exercise, or for personal projects that might usually get pushed aside.

3. Encourages Healthy Work Culture

Because the shortened schedule is required by law and applies to most businesses, it encourages employers to plan smarter. Some companies introduce flexible hours or remote work options to help their teams. This can lead to a more balanced work culture overall.

Why Even Non-Muslims Benefit

You might think reduced hours are only for people who are fasting, but everyone gets the same benefit under the law. That means:

  • If you are living, working, or visiting in the UAE during Ramadan, you will likely experience shorter workdays too.
  • You get extra time every day to rest or explore the city while it has a more relaxed pace in the afternoon.
  • You can join in community events, cultural experiences, and family moments with friends too.

This inclusivity makes the UAE feel welcoming and respectful of both local traditions and the diverse community of residents who live here.

A Deeper Take on What This Means

Here’s a fresh thought about the reduced hours that many people might not consider:

Shorter working hours in Ramadan are like a social reset button for life in the UAE.

This change gives everyone, regardless of background, a chance to rethink how they structure their days. It encourages a focus on health, rest, community, and relationships. In a world where long workdays and burnout are common, this break can be refreshing and meaningful. Ramadan becomes not just a religious observance but a model of how work and life can be balanced in a supportive, human-centered way.

Final Takeaway

The UAE reduces working hours during Ramadan because it honors the cultural and social fabric of the country, respects people’s physical and emotional well-being, and offers everyone a chance to slow down and refocus. Whether you are fasting or not, the shorter workday gives you a small slice of time that can be spent on what matters most to you.

If you are in the UAE during Ramadan, enjoy the slower rhythm, connect with people around you, and use the extra hours in your day in ways that help you feel more balanced and energized.

Alex Eala To Play at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships For The First Time

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Alex Eala To Play at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships For The First Time

Alexa Eala is no longer just a rising prospect. She is now firmly part of the global tennis elite.

Next week, the 20-year-old Filipina star will make her much-anticipated debut at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, marking another historic moment for Philippine tennis. Fresh from entering the WTA Top 40 for the first time, Eala steps onto one of the sport’s biggest stages at a WTA 1000 event that consistently attracts the world’s top players.

For Filipino fans, especially those living and working abroad, this moment carries real weight. Seeing a Filipina competing alongside the best in the world is both inspiring and deeply symbolic.

From No. 139 to the World’s Top 40

Just a year ago, Alex Eala was ranked No. 139 in the world. Today, she sits inside the Top 40, a clear sign of how quickly her game and confidence have matured.

Her rise has been built on results. Eala opened her season with a semifinal finish in Auckland, followed by quarterfinal runs in Manila and Abu Dhabi. While her Doha campaign ended earlier this week, her consistent performances across multiple tournaments show that she belongs at the highest level.

Born in Quezon City, Eala’s journey resonates strongly with young athletes in the Philippines and with overseas Filipinos who see in her story the rewards of patience, discipline, and long-term belief.

Alexandra Eala in action during the 2026 ASB Classic WTA 250 event, taking place at the Manuka Arena, Auckland (NZL) on 10 January 2026.

A Big Stage Debut in Dubai

The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, running from 15 to 21 February, is one of the most competitive events on the WTA calendar. This year’s draw includes 18 of the world’s top 20 players, featuring World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, Grand Slam champions Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina, American star Coco Gauff, and reigning champion Mirra Andreeva.

Eala’s place in this stacked WTA 1000 field is more than a personal milestone. It signals the arrival of Philippine tennis on a truly global platform.

Fans at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium will have the rare chance to watch a Filipina athlete compete against the very best in the world, right in the UAE.

Why Alex Eala’s Impact Matters

Alex Eala’s Dubai debut comes at a time when representation in global sports matters more than ever. In a sport traditionally dominated by established tennis nations, her presence challenges long-held perceptions of where elite talent can come from.

She is not just playing for wins. She is opening doors.

After making her Australian Open main-draw debut earlier this year and winning the Kooyong Classic exhibition in Melbourne, Dubai offers another opportunity to test her game against the tour’s leaders and push for a breakthrough run at WTA 1000 level.

Two Weeks of World-Class Tennis in Dubai

Following the women’s tournament, the ATP 500 men’s event will take place from 23 to 28 February, completing a fortnight of top-level tennis in Dubai.

Tickets for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships are available via ticketmaster.ae and the official tournament website.

As Alex Eala takes the court next week, she carries the hopes of a nation and the pride of Filipinos around the world. Regardless of results, her presence alone has already made an impact, and her journey is only just beginning.

UAE-based Filipino workers can verify contracts through VFS Global

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UAE-based Filipino workers can verify contracts through VFS Global

For many OFWs in the UAE, contract verification is one of those required steps you just have to deal with—important, but often time-consuming and confusing.

Started end of January 2026, Overseas Filipino Workers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will be able to process employment contract verification through VFS Global, following a partnership with DBP Data Centre Inc. (DCI), a government-owned corporation in the Philippines. The service supports contract verification for OFWs working in the UAE and is coordinated with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO).

How the process works

OFWs can begin the process online through a dedicated website where they can:

  • Get step-by-step guidance
  • Pay the required fees
  • Book an appointment

After that, applicants will visit the nearest VFS Global Contract Verification Centre (CVC) in Dubai or Abu Dhabi for in-person document submission.

Once the contract is reviewed and verified by the MWO, applicants will receive an email notification when their documents are ready for collection at the CVC. For those who prefer additional convenience, optional services such as SMS status updates and courier delivery of documents are available for an extra fee.

Why contract verification still matters

Contract verification remains a critical requirement for OFWs. It ensures that employment terms meet Philippine government standards and that worker protections are in place. More importantly, it is one of the requirements for securing an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), which Filipino workers need before leaving the Philippines for overseas employment.

Whether you’re a first-time OFW or renewing documents, this step is non-negotiable.

What the new centres offer

The Contract Verification Centers are designed to support OFWs with the following features:

  • No service fee for the first 30 days of operations
  • Accessible and comfortable facilities
  • Online appointment booking
  • Extended working hours with seven-day operations (Monday–Sunday)
  • 24/7 helpline support
  • Real-time application status tracking
  • Optional courier service
  • Secure online payment for MWO verification fees

These are practical improvements, especially for workers managing tight schedules and limited leave.

VFS Global’s experience with Philippine government services

VFS Global has been working with the Philippine government since 2019, providing passport renewal services in 13 locations worldwide, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Since 2025, it has also handled Philippine visa services for Chinese nationals in multiple locations in China.

Globally, VFS Global supports 16 client governments through digital platforms and in-person service centers.

For OFWs, contract verification is still a process that requires time and preparation—but having a structured system and clear touchpoints can help reduce uncertainty and unnecessary back-and-forth.

For more information, visit the VFS Global website.

Chinese New Year in Dubai 2026: A Rare Cultural Celebration During Ramadan

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Chinese New Year in Dubai 2026: A Rare Cultural Celebration During Ramadan

A Rare Moment on Dubai’s Cultural Calendar

This year’s celebrations carry a deeper meaning. In a rare and meaningful cultural moment, Chinese New Year coincides with Ramadan, with festivities taking place across Dubai from 13 to 22 February. It is not something that happens often, and it quietly reflects what many residents already experience daily: different traditions sharing the same space with mutual respect.

Rather than feeling divided, the city feels connected. Experiences across malls, restaurants, attractions, and public spaces have been thoughtfully curated to honor both occasions. It is a reminder that in Dubai, celebration does not have to be loud to be powerful. Sometimes, it is simply about making room for one another.

Citywide Celebrations That Feel Easy to Join

Chinese New Year in Dubai is not limited to one venue or one type of experience. The celebrations unfold across the city, making it easy for families and visitors to join in at their own pace.

The flagship Happy Chinese New Year Parade at Expo City Dubai sets the tone with open, community-led festivities. Elsewhere, cultural highlights continue with the Middle East’s first Huangmei opera performance at Mall of the Emirates, bringing a centuries-old Chinese art form into a modern Dubai setting.

From retail destinations and family attractions to neighborhood restaurants offering seasonal menus, the celebrations are woven into everyday life rather than feeling staged. Whether you spend an entire day exploring or simply stumble upon a performance while out with family, it all feels accessible.

Why the Year of the Horse Feels So Relevant

The Year of the Horse symbolizes energy, movement, optimism, and new beginnings, values that resonate deeply with life in Dubai. For many residents, especially expat families, these themes reflect personal journeys of growth, resilience, and starting over.

Horses also carry cultural significance in both Chinese tradition and Emirati heritage, where they represent strength, loyalty, and pride. That shared symbolism adds another layer of meaning to this year’s celebrations, making them feel less like an imported festival and more like something that naturally belongs here.

7 Reasons to Watch the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026

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7 Reasons to Watch the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026

Every year, there are certain events in Dubai that quietly remind you why the city attracts the best in the world. The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026 is one of them.

With the tournament just around the corner, the familiar buzz is back in Al Garhoud. The courts are ready, the players are arriving, and fans are starting to plan their schedules. Whether you follow tennis closely or just enjoy being part of a world-class sporting atmosphere, this tournament always delivers.

Here are seven reasons why it is genuinely worth attending this year.

1. Elena Rybakina Returns to Dubai as a Grand Slam Champion

One of the biggest stories heading into this year’s tournament is the return of Elena Rybakina, fresh from winning the Australian Open.

What makes this even more special for Dubai fans is that she now calls the city home. Since relocating here in 2024, she has built a strong connection with the local tennis community. Seeing a reigning Grand Slam champion compete in front of a home crowd is not something you experience often.

She has also been close to winning this tournament before, which adds another layer of anticipation. This feels like a moment many fans will remember years from now.

Elena Rybakina in action against Sofia Kenin during the 2025 WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, Thursday 20th February, 2025.

2. All of the World’s Top 20 Women Competing in One Place

The women’s week, running from February 15 to 21, brings together one of the strongest fields of the season.

Having all of the world’s top 20 players in Dubai means there are no easy matches and no slow days. From the opening rounds, fans can expect high-quality tennis and big matchups.

Seeing players like Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Świątek, Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, and Elina Svitolina all competing in one tournament is a reminder of how important Dubai has become on the global tennis calendar.

3. The ATP Men’s Tournament Brings Familiar Big Names Back

Once the women’s final is done, the focus shifts to the men’s ATP 500 event, which runs until February 28.

This part of the tournament always has its own energy. Defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas returns, along with former winners Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, and Ugo Humbert. Félix Auger-Aliassime comes in as the top seed after reaching the final last year.

For fans, it is a chance to see proven champions and consistent top performers compete in a setting that feels both relaxed and intense at the same time.

NEW-YORK, USA- AUGUST 25: Images of Jack Draper from Great Britain on day 2,
photo by Corinne Dubreuil/ATP Tour

4. Jack Draper Finally Makes His Dubai Debut

One player many fans are curious to see is Jack Draper.

Last year, he was supposed to compete in Dubai but had to pull out due to injury. This time, he arrives fit, confident, and with growing expectations around him. As Britain’s top-ranked male player and a 2024 US Open semi-finalist, his first appearance in Dubai feels long overdue.

There is always something exciting about watching a player compete in a tournament for the first time. You never quite know how it will unfold.

5. You Can Actually Get Close to the Players

One thing that makes the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships different from many other tournaments is how accessible it feels.

Fans often see players walking through the grounds after matches, sometimes stopping for photos or autographs. These small moments make a big difference, especially for younger fans or families attending together.

The atmosphere stays friendly and relaxed, and the presence of the tournament mascots, Ace and Annette adds to the overall experience.

6. The Side Courts Offer a Different Kind of Tennis Experience

If you have been to this tournament before, you probably know that some of the best moments happen away from Centre Court.

The side courts offer a more intimate way to watch professional tennis. You are closer to the players, you hear every shot, and you really feel the pace of the game. Over the years, these courts have featured top singles players and legendary doubles teams.

Many of these matches are accessible through free registration, which makes it an easy and affordable way to spend a full day at the venue.

7. The Tennis Village Makes It a Full Day Out

The tournament is not just about what happens on the court.

The expanded Tennis Village adds games, sponsor activities, food options, and shopping experiences throughout the two weeks. The Dubai Duty Free shop is always popular for souvenirs, and the on-site challenges and competitions keep things lively between matches.

It works well for families, casual fans, and even first-time visitors who want to enjoy the atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed.

The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships has built a reputation for combining top-level tennis with a welcoming and well-organized experience. It is easy to get to, easy to enjoy, and consistently delivers memorable moments.

Alexandrova Plays Back-to-Back Title Bids in Mubadala Abu Dhabi

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Alexandrova Plays Back-to-Back Title Bids in Mubadala Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is heading into a blockbuster finals day, and one name sits right at the center of it all: Ekaterina Alexandrova.

By Friday night at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, Alexandrova wasn’t just through to one final. She had booked two. Singles and doubles. Back-to-back. Same court. Same day. Maximum pressure.

It’s the kind of schedule that tests not just skill but also stamina, focus, and nerves. And Alexandrova looks ready for it.

One Player, Two Finals, One Huge Day

Alexandrova’s run this week has been nothing short of impressive. In the singles semi-final, she faced Hailey Baptiste, who was playing the biggest match of her career after reaching her first-ever WTA Tour semi-final. Baptiste pushed hard, but Alexandrova’s experience showed when it mattered most, closing out a tough 6-3, 6-7, 6-3 win.

That victory put Alexandrova one step away from her sixth WTA Tour singles title.

But she wasn’t done.

Later in the day, Alexandrova returned to the court for doubles action alongside Maya Joint, where the pair defeated Sofia Kenin and Desirae Krawczyk in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6. With that win, Alexandrova secured her place in the doubles final as well.

Now, she stands on the brink of history. Win both matches, and she could become the first player to claim multiple WTA 500 titles in a single day.

Singles Final: Alexandrova vs Bejlek

Standing in Alexandrova’s way in the singles final is Sara Bejlek, the talented 20-year-old Czech who is making her own headlines in Abu Dhabi.

Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026

Bejlek battled past Clara Tauson in a gripping three-set match, 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, to reach her first final at the tournament. Calm, composed, and fearless, she’s quickly become one of the breakout stories of the week.

After her win, Bejlek summed up the moment simply, saying she feels great on the Abu Dhabi courts and plans to leave her heart out there in the final.

Youth versus experience. Hunger versus history. It’s a matchup that promises drama.

Doubles Final: Another Shot at Glory

In the doubles final, Alexandrova and Joint will take on Tereza Mihalikova and Olivia Nicholls, who earlier knocked out fan favorites Alexandra Eala and Janice Tjen in straight sets.

Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026

For Alexandrova, this final is not just about tactics and teamwork. It’s about managing energy, emotions, and momentum across two finals in one evening. Few players get this opportunity. Even fewer convert it into trophies.

The Future of Tennis on Display

Away from the main stadium, the next generation of UAE tennis talent will also take centre stage as the Road to Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open finals unfold for Under 12s, 14s, and 16s.

One match drawing particular attention is the Under-16 boys clash between Timur Gordeev and Ayaan Malik. Gordeev, the reigning champion, is chasing his second consecutive title after a standout 2025 season, reinforcing his reputation as one of the region’s most consistent junior competitors.

Winners across the junior categories will earn an all-expenses-paid training experience at the prestigious Juan Carlos Ferrero Academy in Spain, the same academy that helped shape Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz.

A Finals Day Packed With Firsts

Saturday promises more than just singles and doubles drama. Fans will also witness the maiden Mubadala Wheelchair Tennis Invitational, presented by the WTA Foundation, featuring a final between World No. 1 Yui Kamiji and Jiske Griffioen.

With finals stacked back to back, the stage is set for a memorable close to the tournament.

All eyes, though, will remain on Alexandrova. Two finals. One day. One chance to make history in Abu Dhabi.

And if she pulls it off, it will be remembered as one of the most demanding and defining days of her career.

Alex Eala Lights Up Abu Dhabi: A Match That Moved Filipino Fans at the Mubadala Open

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Alex Eala Lights Up Abu Dhabi: A Match That Moved Filipino Fans at the Mubadala Open

Alex Eala Takes Center Stage in Abu Dhabi

Some matches are entertaining. Others stay with you.

Thursday at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open was one of those days, especially for Filipino fans who filled the stands to support Alex Eala.

You could feel it the moment she walked onto the court. Pilipas shirts, flags, and banners waved quietly in different corners of the stadium. Chants in Tagalog floated through the crowd. Every point she won brought loud cheers. Every long rally made people lean forward in their seats.

It felt less like Abu Dhabi for a moment and more like a small piece of home.

Facing Ekaterina Alexandrova, the highest seed remaining in the tournament, Alex showed heart, composure, and flashes of brilliance. Although her singles journey ended in straight sets, the score did not fully capture what she brought to the match.

She fought for every ball. She stayed present. And she reminded everyone watching why so many Filipinos believe in her.

For many in the UAE, seeing Eala compete at this level means more than tennis. It is representation, and it’s inspiring. It is proof that dreams that start back home can grow on the world stage.

When Alex plays, she carries more than a racket. She carries the pride of a nation.

From Singles Battle to Doubles Brilliance

Alex did not let the singles loss define her day.

Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026

Later that evening, she returned to court with Janice Tjen for their doubles semi-final, and this time the energy felt different.

In front of another packed crowd on ADCB Court 1, Eala and Tjen delivered a strong straight-sets win over Cristina Bucșa and Shuai Zhang. From the first game, their chemistry was clear. Aggressive returns, quick movement at the net, and smiles between points told the story of two players who genuinely enjoy playing together.

After the match, Alex shared what made their partnership work:

“We were trying to be aggressive and have fun. When you have a good relationship with your partner, you’re not afraid to go with your gut. If you make errors, it’s okay because you have that chemistry and you’re willing to try what feels right.”

That mindset showed on the court.

The win sent Eala and Tjen into the doubles semi-finals, giving Alex another chance to shine and giving Filipino fans yet another reason to celebrate.

Quarter-Finals Deliver High-Level Tennis

While much of the crowd energy followed Eala, the rest of Thursday’s quarter-finals also delivered exciting tennis.

Clara Tauson advanced after a solid performance against McCartney Kessler. Czech qualifier Sara Bejlek dominated Sonay Kartal, dropping just two games. Hailey Baptiste battled past Liudmila Samsonova in three tough sets. Earlier in the day, Alexandrova continued her strong run by defeating Eala.

With these results, the semi-final lineup was set, promising more intense matches ahead.

A Historic First for Wheelchair Tennis

Away from the main draw, the tournament also made history.

The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open became the first standalone WTA event to feature wheelchair tennis, launching its inaugural Wheelchair Tennis Invitational presented by the WTA Foundation.

wheelchair tennis legend Jiske Griffioen of the Netherlands defeat María Angélica Bernal of Colombia i

Dutch legend Jiske Griffioen defeated María Angélica Bernal to earn a place in Saturday’s final against World No. 1 Yui Kamiji of Japan.

But the impact went far beyond competition.

Griffioen, Bernal, and Kamiji also spent time with Heroes of Hope, the UAE’s non-profit sports academy for people of determination. They brought kids onto the court, shared laughs, and created moments that many families will never forget.

It was a beautiful reminder that sport is not just about winning. It is about connection.

What’s Next at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open

Friday promises another full day of action:

  • 4:00 PM (Stadium Court): Doubles semi-final, Mihalikova and Nicholls vs Eala and Tjen
  • 6:00 PM: Hailey Baptiste vs Ekaterina Alexandrova in the singles semi-final
  • 8:00 PM: Sara Bejlek vs Clara Tauson
  • Not before 7:00 PM (ADCB Court 1): Kenin and Krawczyk vs Alexandrova and Joint in the other doubles semi-final

The tournament runs through 7 February 2026, combining WTA 500 tennis with youth programs and its groundbreaking wheelchair tennis invitational.

More Than Just a Match

For Filipino fans, Alex Eala’s presence in Abu Dhabi already felt like a victory.

Her fight in singles. Her comeback in doubles. The way she acknowledged the crowd. All of it reminded people why she continues to inspire so many.

In a stadium thousands of kilometers from home, Alex made Filipinos feel proud.

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