The rapid rise in sports tourism is seeing an increasing number of people travelling to various destinations for all-inclusive travel and sporting experiences. Athletes, teams and spectators alike are planning their trips around sport-friendly tour destinations.
While spectator sports tourism has been a global constant, wellness, active and women’s sports tourism have seen a notable uptick in interest and participation. Women’s sports tourism has seen a rapid rise in viewership between 2023 and 2025, and shows no signs of slowing down.
Over the last 10 years, South Africa has experienced an increase in sports interest, expanding their interests from soccer, cricket and rugby to include adventure sports such as running, cycling, tennis/padel and swimming.
Whether you’re an adrenaline enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys the great outdoors, Dubai has something that appeals to everyone. From wellness and fitness programmes, sports tournaments and matches, to extreme sports adventure.
The city offers a variety of wellness retreats and programmes that fitness bunnies and athletes can explore. Even visitors to the city can join a club or rent a pitch and play with groups of friends/family.
View beautiful city landscapes via cycling tours around desert at Al Qudra, the Jumeirah beachfront, or go for an invigorating jog through the scenic Dubai Marina. For a more participatory experience visit Dubai Sports World, the perfect indoor arena to dabble in any ball sport including basketball, cricket, football and tennis.
Dubai caters for every kind of sport buff who loves a good match day and witnessing all the action from the stands. The city is set to host a variety of sports tournaments, ranging from the Premier Padel P1 tournament to the world-renowned DP World Tour Championship, that hosts professional padel and golf players from across the globe.
In preparation for the Rugby World Cup – set to take place in Australia 2027 – Dubai will be hosting the last leg of the qualifier rounds at The Sevens Stadium.
Extreme and adventure sports are growing in popularity across all age groups, and more people want to create exhilarating memories that will last a lifetime.
Famously known for its skyscrapers and skyline views, Dubai offers more than just aero adventures. With a wide range of water sports, thrill-seekers can go scuba diving at the Atlantis Dive Centre, kayaking in Hatta Dam, or parasailing near Jumeirah beach.
Visitors can also attempt the impossible and go skiing in the desert city. The Dubai Mall houses an indoor ski resort that allows adventurers to hit the slopes before or after shopping in the mall.
Or, for a more authentic and traditional adventure, people can go sandboarding or quad biking in the desert dunes. No matter the vibe, Dubai is a premier destination for extreme sports and adventure.
