Dubai has opened its doors to the world’s largest padbol sports facility, in the Al Quoz district.
EmiratesPadPro is a 10,000-square-foot property with seven padbol courts, a cafe, lounge space, bathing facilities, and ample parking outside.
The game is a fusion sport that combines elements of football, tennis, volleyball, and squash. It was created by UAE residents and avid sports fans, Kabir Khorram and Hussein Kapasi.
The game is played in pairs with four players and uses the same scoring system as tennis. The receiving team must return the ball with a minimum of two or a maximum of three touches after receiving a ball that is smaller and lighter than a football. The ball bounces off the ground and lateral walls, providing consistency and speed to the game. The teams score to win by using the majority of their bodies, including their feet, heads, chests, and legs.
The game was first played in Argentina in 2008, and it has since spread to over 30 nations. The court size for both indoor and outdoor games is 6×10 meters. The game’s flooring is a one-of-a-kind high-tech surface that protects athletes from joint ailments.
Emirates PadPro seeks to promote sports and hold international and national tournaments, and league matches, as well as training, and children’s camps, with the opening of the facility in the UAE.