The third edition of the Fatima bint Mubarak Academy Basketball Cup for Ladies 2026 has begun in Abu Dhabi, bringing together seven teams from the UAE and across the region for a five-day competition.

Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, the tournament is taking place at the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy from August 27 to 31.

The competition is being held under the directives of Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, as well as Chairwoman of Abu Dhabi Ladies Club and Al Ain Ladies Club.

Seven teams compete in Abu Dhabi

The tournament features teams from six countries, including the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan and Egypt.

The participating teams are:

The regional line-up gives players an opportunity to compete against teams with different playing styles while gaining experience in an official tournament environment.

Opening matches produce decisive results

The tournament opened with three matches, with all three fixtures producing clear winners.

Kuwait’s Al-Oyoun Women’s defeated Jordan’s Al-Moqawileen Club 70–34, while Qatar’s Al Gharafa secured an 82–36 victory over Oman’s Salalah.

In the third opening match, Egypt’s 6th of October Club beat Kuwait’s Salwa Al Sabah 87–60.

An opening ceremony was also held at the headquarters of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, attended by officials, representatives of sports organisations and heads of delegation from the participating clubs.

Tournament coincides with Emirati Women’s Day

This year’s basketball cup coincides with Emirati Women’s Day, which is being celebrated under the theme “We Emerge Stronger and Better.”

The timing highlights the achievements of Emirati women and the continued development of opportunities for women across different sectors, including sport.

The tournament provides participating athletes with a platform to develop their skills, gain competitive experience and build connections with players from across the region.

Academy highlights commitment to women’s sport

H.E. Dr. Omnia Al Hajri, Vice Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, said the tournament carries particular significance because of its connection with Emirati Women’s Day.

She highlighted the continued support for Emirati women and the role of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak in advancing women's participation and empowerment across different fields.

Dr. Al Hajri also noted that providing competitive opportunities for female athletes remains an important part of the Academy’s efforts to develop women’s sport.

The Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy continues to host regional sporting competitions designed to give female athletes opportunities to compete, develop their abilities and exchange experiences with players from different countries.

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