Tennis and padel are experiencing a meteoric rise in popularity in Dubai, transforming into the hottest activities in town. Dubai’s residents are known for their love of luxury and a good time. Lately, that love affair has extended to fitness, but with a twist – rackets are replacing barbells and courtside-chic is the new athleisure.
The recent film “Challengers,” starring Zendaya with its captivating on-court romance and heart-pounding rallies, has undoubtedly rekindled a passion for tennis, particularly among younger demographics. But the real interest lies in the inherent fun and social aspects of these sports. Tennis, with its graceful strokes and strategic mind games, has always held a certain mystique.
Dubai boasts an embarrassment of riches when it comes to courts, from the prestigious grass courts of the Aviation Club to the stunning beachfront courts at luxury hotels like Jumeirah Beach Hotel. These havens cater to all skill levels, from social groups where you can perfect your backhand with a friendly bunch to competitive leagues that will test your mettle (and maybe even ignite your own on-court rivalry, “Challengers” style). Padel, a fast-paced hybrid of tennis and squash played on a smaller, enclosed court with walls, is quickly becoming the new darling of Dubai’s fitness scene.
This dynamic sport offers a fantastic workout, pushing your reflexes and agility to the limit. But the real magic lies in its social nature. The enclosed court fosters a liv.