Middle East’s first professional ice rink to open in Dubai this year

DUBAI: The UAE’s sporting scene is set for a major new addition with the opening later this year of the Emirates Sports Arena, the Middle East’s first professional ice rink.

Set to open in September, the facility in Dubai Sports City aims to position Dubai as a hub for ice hockey, figure skating and other ice disciplines in the region.

The arena, located next to the Emirates Sports Hotel and Apartments, marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s sports infrastructure. The state-of-the-art venue will host professional games, international tournaments, training camps and community events.

With seating for 600 spectators, the 10,000-square-meter facility has been built to meet the standards of North America’s National Hockey League, including maintaining the temperature of the ice surface at between 16-18 degrees Celsius.

Its state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems plus high-definition screens and range of dining options means it can also be used for figure skating competitions, concerts and other forms of entertainment.

The arena’s operators hope it will provide a base for nurturing grassroots winter sports across the UAE and neighboring countries. A dedicated winter sports academy will be established nearby, offering training programs for aspiring athletes, coaching clinics and youth development initiatives.

The arena is a major boost to the UAE’s previously limited provision of ice rinks, which comprised only smaller venues in Abu Dhabi and Al-Ain.

A core element of the project is fostering inclusivity, with the arena featuring dedicated professional spaces for female athletes and coaches, aligning with broader initiatives to promote women’s participation in sports. Special events, matches and tournaments for