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EuroLeague Expands Reach with Landmark Broadcast Agreement in MENA

9/20/2025, 11:00:33 AM

Major Broadcast Agreement Announced

EuroLeague Basketball has secured a significant five-year broadcast agreement with Dubai Media, which will allow EuroLeague games to be aired across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This partnership, facilitated by EuroLeague's strategic partner IMG, aims to reach over 100 million households in the region. The deal was officially announced on September 19, 2025, and will see Dubai Sports TV broadcasting all matches involving Dubai Basketball, as well as a selection of top games from the league each week.

Context of Expansion

The agreement comes as Dubai Basketball prepares for its inaugural season in the EuroLeague, which has expanded to include 20 teams. The league features prominent clubs such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul. The decision to enter the MENA market follows the successful hosting of the EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi last season, marking a strategic move to enhance the league's global presence.

Key Figures in the Agreement

Mohamed AlMulla, CEO of Dubai Media, emphasized the importance of this partnership in positioning Dubai as a global hub for sports and entertainment. He stated, “This partnership reinforces Dubai Media’s commitment to delivering world-class sporting content to audiences across the region.” Paulius Motiejunas, CEO of Euroleague Basketball, expressed gratitude towards Dubai Media and the Dubai Sports Council for their efforts in making the EuroLeague accessible to a broader audience, highlighting the significance of this agreement in the league's expansion strategy.

Implications for Fans and Players

The broadcast deal is expected to inspire a new generation of basketball fans and athletes in the MENA region. With a focus on Dubai Basketball's debut, the agreement aims to elevate the competition's profile and accessibility. The EuroLeague 2025–26 season is set to commence on September 30, 2025, with Dubai Basketball making its historic debut against Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai.

Criticism & Opposition

While the agreement has been largely welcomed, some critics have raised concerns about the potential oversaturation of sports broadcasting in the region. They argue that the influx of international sports content may overshadow local leagues and competitions, potentially impacting their growth and visibility.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

There are no significant conflicting reports regarding the details of the broadcast agreement; however, the long-term effects on local basketball leagues and their ability to compete for viewership remain uncertain.

What's Next

As the EuroLeague prepares for its new season, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the impact of this broadcast agreement on viewership and fan engagement in the MENA region. The success of Dubai Basketball's debut and the overall reception of EuroLeague games will be pivotal in shaping future expansion strategies.

Verbatim Quotes

“EuroLeague and Dubai Media, who will broadcast the games via their Dubai Sports TV Channel agreed on a five-year deal to broadcast EuroLeague in Middle East and Northern Africa,” — Paulius Motiejunas, Euroleague Basketball CEO

“This partnership reinforces Dubai Media’s commitment to delivering world-class sporting content to audiences across the region. Broadcasting the EuroLeague aligns with our vision of positioning Dubai as a global hub for premier sports and entertainment. With the debut of Dubai Basketball in the EuroLeague, this agreement not only elevates the competition’s presence in the region but also inspires a new generation of fans and athletes.” — Mohamed AlMulla, CEO of Dubai Media

“Following last season’s outstanding Final Four in Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s debut this season, this agreement represents an important moment and a significant step in our globalization plan,” Motiejunas said.” — Paulius Motiejunas, Euroleague Basketball CEO