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Sport Industry Forum 2025 Returns to Abu Dhabi with Global Leaders and Game-Changing Conversations
Abu Dhabi to Host Region’s Leading Sports Gathering, Bringing Together Global Icons and Industry Leaders to Shape the Future of Sport in the Middle East
Region’s premier sports gathering to spotlight investment, innovation, and collaboration at Yas Marina Circuit
The Sport Industry Forum, the Middle East’s leading platform for shaping the future of sport, is set to return to Abu Dhabi on 1–2 October 2025 with its most ambitious edition yet. Hosted at the newly renovated Yas Conference Centre, Yas Marina Circuit, the event will once again convene decision-makers from government, sport, and business to debate opportunities, strategies, and investments transforming the global sports landscape.
Supported by the Department of Culture & Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the Department of Community Development, and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, this year’s edition will attract more than 450 senior leaders and is expected to generate impactful conversations and partnerships.
A Legacy of Action and Impact
Founded in 2014, the Sport Industry Forum was created to fill a critical gap: a dedicated platform where leaders in sport could connect, collaborate, and accelerate growth in the Middle East.
“In 2014, there was no platform in the region where decision-makers in sport could come together,” said Sally Corander, founder of the Forum. “We wanted to create meaningful dialogue and develop proactive solutions that don’t just discuss the future of sport here, but actively shape it.”
Since its inception, the Forum has grown into a global event, known for driving real outcomes beyond discussion. It has hosted historic moments, including the unveiling of the UAE National Sports Strategy in 2023 and unforgettable interviews with NBA executives Cynt Marshall and Ethan Casson, highlighting its role as more than just a conference—it’s a driver of measurable change.
2025 Edition: A Global Lineup
This year’s agenda promises powerful conversations across sport, investment, innovation, and inclusion. Confirmed speakers include:
- Alexis Ohanian, Co-Founder of Reddit & Founding Owner, Angel City FC
- John Terry, Former Chelsea & England Captain
- Robbie Fowler, Former Liverpool & England striker
- H.E. Ghanim Al Hajeri, Undersecretary, UAE Ministry of Sports
- Kelly Flatow, EVP Global Events, NBA
- Danny Townsend, CEO, SURJ Sports Investment
- Andrew Thompson, Managing Director, SailGP
- Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO, Ethara and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
- Tad Brown, CEO, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (Philadelphia 76ers)
- Jamaal Lesane, COO, Madison Square Garden Sports (New York Knicks)
Sessions will explore Saudi Arabia’s sports investment strategy, the future of women’s sport, lessons in leadership from elite athletes, and insights from global properties including the NBA, SailGP, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Networking Beyond the Stage
The Forum will also host curated networking opportunities, including a Padel Networking Evening on 30 September and a reception at Yas Marina Circuit, ensuring delegates have a chance to build meaningful partnerships.
Beyond the two-day event, organiser Interact ensures insights extend into community health programmes, strategic partnerships, and long-term initiatives that promote physical activity and well-being across the region.
Official Partners
The 2025 edition is supported by Ethara and OVG Middle East, with the Yas Conference Centre providing a cutting-edge venue that reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global sports hub.
With its ambitious agenda and world-class lineup, the Sport Industry Forum 2025 is set to cement its reputation as the region’s most influential gathering for sport, business, and innovation.
