The UAE’s Padel Industry Boom: Everything You Need to Know

Padel has evolved from a niche racket sport into one of the fastest-growing recreational industries in the UAE. Its rise reflects shifting lifestyle habits, sustained investment, and a global boom that continues to reinforce local expansion.

According to the World Padel Network, search interest for “padel” in the UAE has increased by 3,000% over the past five years, with a further 60.3% rise in 2025, a clear indicator of growing consumer curiosity and participation.

UAE Padel Association leadership reports there are now more than 250 padel facilities and over 900 courts operational in Dubai alone, with venues continuing to expand as demand rises.

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Padel Moves Beyond Clubs Into Real Estate and Hospitality

Padel is no longer limited to standalone sports clubs. Courts are increasingly being integrated into residential, commercial, and hospitality developments, positioning the sport as a lifestyle amenity.

As of mid-2025, the UAE ranks among the top three global markets for padel in residential real estate, with approximately 199 property listings featuring padel courts in luxury developments. Some projects now include between eight and thirteen courts to meet demand, with many built to tournament-grade, FIP standards to attract serious players as well as lifestyle-focused residents.

Courts are now common across major hubs including Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and Palm Jumeirah, highlighting how firmly padel has entered mainstream urban living.

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Why Padel Works So Well in the UAE

With tens of thousands of regular players across the country, padel’s growth mirrors the UAE’s wider lifestyle and leisure evolution. The sport is easy to learn yet competitive enough to keep experienced players engaged, and its doubles format makes it naturally social.

Indoor and air-cooled courts across major cities support comfortable, year-round play despite high outdoor temperatures. Alongside the UAE’s hospitality culture, this has helped padel become a popular way to combine sport with socialising.

Both Emirati youth and the expatriate community have embraced the sport, creating steady demand for coaching programmes, leagues and events and helping embed padel into everyday routines.

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The Business Opportunity Behind the Boom

Padel’s expansion is driving a fast-growing commercial ecosystem. New facilities continue to open, designed for high utilisation and multiple revenue streams through bookings, coaching and events. Real estate and hospitality developers are adding courts to enhance property value and attract residents and guests.

Booking platforms and community apps are becoming essential tools for managing court access and player networks, while demand for qualified coaches and academies continues to rise.

With strong consumer demand and ongoing investment, the UAE has established itself as a leading market for padel, supported by infrastructure, lifestyle integration and long-term growth potential.