News DeskFUJAIRAH, UAE: In a major moment for sport on the UAE’s East Coast, Fujairah is preparing to welcome world-class tennis for the very first time.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, the Fujairah Tennis and Country Club will host the inaugural Fujairah Open I, an ATP Challenger 50 tournament, from 2 to 15 March 2026. The two-week event marks a historic step forward for tennis in the Emirate, bringing international competition and valuable ATP ranking points to the region.
A Defining Chapter for Tennis in Fujairah
For Fujairah, this is more than just another tournament it is a statement of intent.
The ATP Challenger Tour is widely recognised as the critical pathway for rising stars and seasoned professionals working their way toward the elite ATP Tour. By securing an ATP Challenger 50 event, Fujairah joins a respected list of global cities that serve as stepping stones for the sport’s next generation of champions.
The tournament will feature a 32-player main draw, alongside a 24-player qualifying draw and 16 doubles teams. Daily matches are set to begin at 11:00 AM, with doubles finals scheduled for 7 and 14 March, and singles finals taking centre stage on 8 and 15 March.
International Oversight and Professional Standards
Ensuring the tournament meets the highest international standards will be ATP Supervisor Jiri Adamovsky, who will oversee all official proceedings in line with ATP regulations.
Supporting him will be a seasoned officiating team of six chair umpires and three review officials. On-court operations will also be assisted by eight to ten match assistants managing logistics and player coordination. Behind the scenes, three Bolt6 operators and two Crionet specialists will handle live scoring systems and review technology, ensuring matches run seamlessly for players and fans alike.
A Tournament Built Around the Players
Organisers have placed strong emphasis on operational efficiency and player experience.
The players’ desk will operate on a rotational system to provide uninterrupted support throughout both weeks. Reception teams will manage essential services, including racquet stringing, laundry, and general coordination. A dedicated practice balls and court desk will also be stationed in the lobby to streamline training schedules.
The venue’s VIP room will be transformed into a players’ lounge, while tournament officials will operate from offices located upstairs. Five housekeeping staff members will ensure courts and facilities remain in pristine condition throughout the competition.
Hotel arrangements have been centrally organised, and many players are expected to remain in Fujairah for both weeks even if eliminated early to make full use of the club’s training facilities and prepare for the second tournament.
Youth at the Heart of the Event
Community engagement will also play a vital role in the tournament’s success.
A team of 27 ball kids is being assembled, highlighting Fujairah’s commitment to involving young people in world-class sporting events. The programme will be professionally managed to ensure smooth on-court coordination in line with international standards.
Raising the Bar for Regional Sport
The arrival of the Fujairah Open I signals the Emirate’s growing ambitions within the global tennis landscape. Beyond offering valuable ranking points, the tournament positions the Fujairah Tennis and Country Club as an emerging hub for professional tennis in the Middle East.
With meticulous planning, experienced leadership, and strong patronage backing the event, Fujairah’s first ATP Challenger 50 promises two weeks of elite competition and the beginning of a new sporting legacy for the Emirate.
