Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), through its destination brand, Experience Abu Dhabi, has partnered with the New York Knicks to unveil a newly refurbished basketball court at Sheikha Fatima Park ahead of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025.
The court was officially inaugurated at an event attended by His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi. His Excellency was joined at the court unveiling by Madison Square Garden Sports Executive Chairman & CEO James Dolan, as well as Knicks greats John Starks and Stephon Marbury.
The project embodies DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to creating experiences for the community to enjoy and connect.
The court’s design, led by self-taught Emirati artist Aysha Saif Al Hamrani, is inspired by traditional Emirati mandoos furniture—a decorative wooden chest used to safeguard valuables. Its patterns are reimagined across the court surface, framing the Knicks logo and linking Abu Dhabi heritage with basketball culture.
Details such as the central circle, echoing the mandoos ‘lock plate’ and motifs along the sidelines highlight Emirati craftsmanship, transforming the court into a living artwork.
Explaining the concept behind the artwork, Al Hamrani said: “The mandoos is traditionally crafted in mirrored halves, rich with repetition and balance. Similarly, a basketball court is symmetrical, with two sides reflecting each other. By layering mandoos-inspired geometry into the court, the floor becomes a dialogue between tradition and sport, heritage and modernity.”
Located in the heart of the city, Sheikha Fatima Park is a popular green urban escape known for its adventure zones, dining spots, and family-friendly spaces. The newly refurbished basketball court adds a dynamic space for families, friends, and basketball fans to play, explore, and enjoy together.
This is the second community court refurbishment in Abu Dhabi, following the redesign at Reem Central Park. Together, the projects demonstrate DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to creating spaces that inspire people to stay active, celebrate culture, and strengthen community ties.
The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, presented by ADQ, features the New York Knicks facing the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday, October 2, and Saturday, October 4, at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.
