Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairperson of the Presidential Court for National Projects, and hosted by Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, the SMK Tennis Tournament will return for its landmark 15th anniversary on November 6-20, 2026 in Abu Dhabi, celebrating a legacy of championing Emirati women in sport, nurturing confidence and leadership and bringing generations together through the power of tennis.
In a significant milestone for the tournament, female players from the Gulf will join Emirati competitors for the first time in ladies’ singles and doubles. Participants from Saudi Arabia and Qatar will extend the event’s regional connections and its commitment to creating opportunities for women through sport.
Across 15 evenings, the competition will be complemented by a carefully curated programme of wellness and fitness experiences, thought-provoking conversations, workshops and exclusive activations.
An opening gala on November 6 will launch the anniversary celebrations, culminating in the championship finals and closing gala on November 20.
For 15 years, the SMK Tennis Tournament and SMK Tennis Academy have helped women develop sporting ability, resilience, self-belief and lasting community connections.
Reflecting the UAE’s longstanding commitment to the advancement of women, including the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, this milestone honours the players, families and partners who have contributed to its enduring legacy – and the next generation it seeks to inspire.
Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohamed bin Khalid Al Nahyan said: “Fifteen years of SMK Tennis represents far more than a sporting milestone. It is a celebration of the women, families and community who have shaped this journey.
From the beginning, our vision has been to build confidence, encourage leadership and create opportunities that extend beyond the tennis court. Welcoming players from Saudi Arabia and Qatar for the first time makes this anniversary especially meaningful, as we look towards the next chapter of friendship, achievement and opportunity for women in sport.”
The 15th anniversary edition is proudly supported by ADNIC as Headline Sponsor, alongside corporate and strategic partners including ADX, Mubadala Women, SAAS Properties, ADCB, PureHealth, Aldar, NCT&H, Next Health, Sindan and Mahawa. These partnerships strengthen women’s participation in sport, wellbeing and community engagement.
Founded by Her Highness Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, the SMK Tennis Tournament is an annual women’s sporting and community event in Abu Dhabi.
Together with the SMK Tennis Academy, it supports women’s participation in tennis, personal development and community engagement.
