Indoor sports, fitness challenges and family-friendly fun at ADNEC Centre
Summer in Abu Dhabi usually comes with one challenge: how do you stay active when stepping outside feels like walking into an oven?
Fortunately, the answer is arriving this week as Abu Dhabi Summer Sports (ADSS) returns to ADNEC Centre for its fifth edition, bringing with it a season packed with fitness, fun and plenty of reasons to get moving.
Running from 6 June until 23 August, ADSS has become something of a summer tradition in the capital.
Each year, thousands of residents swap outdoor workouts for an enormous indoor sports arena where the temperature stays comfortable, regardless of what the weather is doing outside.
The beauty of ADSS is that it isn’t just for serious athletes. In fact, that’s exactly what makes it so appealing.
Whether you’re a dedicated gym-goer, a weekend football player, a padel enthusiast, or someone who simply wants to be a little more active this summer, there’s something here with your name on it.
You start your visit with a few laps around the indoor running track before deciding to challenge a friend to a game of badminton.
Head over to the basketball courts or join a football match. If you’re looking for one of the UAE’s fastest-growing sports, the padel courts are ready and waiting.
For those who enjoy racket sports, tennis and table tennis offer even more ways to stay active while having fun.
Of course, not every challenge has to involve keeping score. The functional fitness zone and fully equipped gym provide the perfect opportunity to focus on personal goals, whether that’s improving strength, boosting endurance or simply staying consistent throughout the summer months
Meanwhile, yoga and wellness activities offer a chance to slow things down and recharge.
Families are just as much a part of the ADSS experience. Children can burn off energy in dedicated activity zones, take part in summer camp programmes or tackle the giant inflatable obstacle course, which promises plenty of laughs alongside the challenge.
It’s the kind of attraction that often sees parents joining in “just to help” before discovering they’re having as much fun as the kids.
What makes ADSS special is the atmosphere. There’s a sense of community that develops when people of all ages and fitness levels come together with a shared goal: staying healthy while enjoying themselves.
One minute you’re watching a competitive volleyball rally, the next you’re cheering someone on as they navigate the obstacle course or celebrating a hard-fought victory on the football pitch.
In a season often associated with staying indoors, Abu Dhabi Summer Sports offers a different perspective.
It proves that summer can still be active, social and full of energy. Whether you’re chasing fitness goals, looking for a new hobby or simply searching for a fun way to spend time with family and friends, ADSS is ready to make this summer a little more active.
So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to dust off your trainers and try something new, this might just be it. Game on, Abu Dhabi.
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What’s on at Abu Dhabi Summer Sports 2026?
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Badminton
6 indoor courts
Suitable for singles and doubles
Limited rackets and shuttlecocks available
Basketball
1 full court and 2 half courts
Ideal for casual games, training and competitive matches
Action Cricket
3 indoor courts
Fast-paced indoor cricket experience
Football (5×5 and 7×7)
6 indoor pitches in total
Premium turf playing surfaces
Footballs available on-site
Studded boots not permitted
Padel
8 indoor courts
Suitable for all skill levels
Limited rackets and balls available
Court 8 available for added privacy
Tennis
2 indoor courts
Singles and doubles play available
Professional netting and premium flooring
Table Tennis
6 tables
Singles and doubles formats
Volleyball
3 indoor courts
Limited equipment available
Running Track
1,540-metre indoor track
Free access for visitors
No booking required for individual use
Gym
Fully equipped cardio and strength-training facility
Free of charge
Open to visitors aged 16 and above
Functional Fitness Zone
Dedicated strength and conditioning area
On-site training equipment available
Open to visitors aged 16 and above
Obstacle Course
UAE’s largest inflatable indoor obstacle course
Features 10 giant challenges
Suitable for ages 6 and above
Kids Summer Camp
Monday to Friday, 9am–2pm
Sports, games and activities
Suitable for children aged 3–14
Thamrh Kids Zone
Indoor play and activity area
Suitable for children aged 4–12
Capacity for up to 50 children
Casual Play Area
Foosball
Chess
Carrom
Open access and free to use
AED25. 6 June–23 August, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, 6am-1am daily. For further information, visit abudhabi.adsummersports.ae
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