The NBA will not stage preseason games in Abu Dhabi or elsewhere in the Middle East ahead of the 2026-27 season, according to ESPN.
Over the past four years, the league has regularly held exhibition games in Abu Dhabi, but those plans have reportedly been shelved this year because of ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the conflict involving the United States and Iran.
Although the NBA never officially confirmed Middle East preseason games for this year, ESPN reported that discussions had taken place involving the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards.
Among the options considered were hosting games in Doha, Qatar, or splitting the schedule between Abu Dhabi and Doha.
However, those plans were ultimately abandoned, and no preseason games will be played in the region this year.
NBA will reportedly not hold preseason games in Abu Dhabi this year, amid the war between USA and Iranhttps://t.co/Wu49eZtQom
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) July 30, 2026
