Celebrities descend upon Abu Dhabi for NBA Games

ABU DHABI, UAE - OCTOBER 6: as part of 2022 NBA Abu Dhabi Games at Etihad Arena on October 6, 2022 in Abu Dhabi, The United Arab Emirates. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Chris Marion/NBAE via Getty Images)

 The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022 featuring two preseason games between the Atlanta Hawks and the Milwaukee Bucks concluded last night at Etihad Arena on Yas Island in front of a lineup of local and international celebrities and influencers, who joined NBA legends and two sold-out crowds to celebrate the league’s first games in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Arabian Gulf. 

The Hawks defeated the Bucks 123-113 on Thursday and 118-109 last night in front of actor Martin Lawrence, actress Nour Ghandour, legendary performers Maya Diab and Ahmed AlNasheet, Bollywood star Ranveer Singh, comedian Steve Harvey, style icon Karen Wazen, former basketball player Fadi El Khatib, entrepreneur Anas Bukhash and global hip hop star Fabolous, among others. Also in attendance were NBA Legends Shaquille O’Neal, Chris Bosh, Vince Carter, Isiah Thomas and Dominique Wilkins.

ABU DHABI, UAE – OCTOBER 6: as part of 2022 NBA Abu Dhabi Games at Etihad Arena on October 6, 2022 in Abu Dhabi, The United Arab Emirates. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE (Photo by Chris Marion/NBAE via Getty Images)

As part of the week of activities, fans can visit the final day of “NBA District,” an immersive, interactive fan event at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi that concludes at 10 p.m. GST today.  NBA District is showcasing the music, media and art associated with NBA culture and features performances by the Bucks Dunk Team and mascot, “Bango” and by the Hawks Dance Team and mascot, “Harry the Hawk,” live art performances by UAE-based artist Mr. Dripping and NBA Lab Creative Director Billi Kid, panels and workshops featuring current and former NBA players, global content creators, artists and entertainers, hands-on basketball activities, and more.

NBA District also offers photo opportunities with NBA personalities and authentic NBA memorabilia, including The Larry O’Brien Trophy, NBA-themed exhibitions and games, international and traditional Emirati food and beverages, and limited-edition NBA apparel and merchandise.

Tickets for today can be purchased for AED 55 by visiting NBAEvents.com/AbuDhabi.  Fans can also follow the NBA on FacebookInstagram and Twitter (@NBAArabic) for the latest updates, news and content in Arabic.