Too Type B for tennis and too claustrophobic for squash? Then padel might just be your perfect match. If you’ve spotted those futuristic glass boxes glowing between Dubai’s skyscrapers, you’re audience to the city’s latest obsession that’s got everyone from Marina mums to Downtown influencers completely hooked.
Padel is as Dubai as it gets, it is high-octane, ridiculously social, just bougie enough to be everything that makes this city tick. It’s doubles only in a glass court that’s smaller than tennis but way more dramatic, with tennis scoring (15, 30, 40, game) except the walls are totally fair game, which means longer rallies with three of your gorgeous friends cheering you on.
The rules (because we’re not savages)
- Serve underhand only; we don’t need your aggressive Wimbledon energy here lol.
- Ball hits ground first, then walls.
- Walls are your secret weapon for those sneaky angle shots that’ll make your opponents question their life choices.
- Doubles only because cardio plus banter with your besties is literally the perfect combination.
What to wear
Think sporty chic, nothing too loose, nothing that can slip off or you may end up as an unsavoury background character in someone’s reel. Your usual workout gear works great (padel’s refreshingly chill about dress codes), so those cute tennis skirts, biker shorts of old leggings from 2020 are absolutely perfect. But seriously invest in proper padel trainers because the difference between looking like a graceful gazelle and face-planting in front of everyone is just some good shoes.
Where to play in Dubai
From zen minimalism to floating courts, Dubai’s padel scene has something for every mood.
Matcha Club
The wellness enthusiast’s dream: Earthy tones, minimalist vibes, yoga classes and matcha, what else could you ask for?
📍Al Quoz
Padel Edition
Eight courts, recovery zones, and oat-milk lattes for essential post-game debrief sessions.
📍Al Quoz
PadelX
If trying a new sport isn’t good enough for you, try doing it on a floating court while soaking up skyline views.
📍JLT
Viya Padel
For the pro-in-training crowd, with world-class facilities and ten courts.
📍Emirates Hills
Just Padel
For when you get that itch. Everywhere from Kite Beach to Mirdif, so you’re never too far from your next dopamine hit.
📍Locations across the UAE
Right now, padel isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle moment. Whether you’re playing for the cardio, brunch after, or the perfect Instagram photo dump, there is no denying that this game is all about connection, competition, and having a ridiculously good time.
Entering your fitness era? This Dubai cardio essentials guide can help you get started.