The Ultimate Padel Match lands in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, transforming Space 42 Arena into a one-night international showcase of elite padel. Located at Al Raha Beach, the arena is accessible via Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street with clear road connections toward Khalifa City and Al Bandar Street. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the main event scheduled for 9:00 PM and the evening concluding around midnight. The venue is widely recognized as one of Abu Dhabi’s modern indoor sports destinations, offering spectators close-up court visibility and stadium-style seating.
A one-night international showcase
This event gathers four of the sport’s highest-ranked players for a competitive exhibition designed to highlight skill, strategy, and athletic precision. Padel continues to grow rapidly across the UAE, and Abu Dhabi has increasingly positioned itself as a key regional host for premium matchups. The Ultimate Padel Match places the world’s top athletes on a single court for a high-intensity encounter rarely seen in the region. Consequently, fans can expect long rallies, tactical exchanges, and moments of raw physical endurance.
The world’s number one pairing
Leading the lineup are Agustín Tapia and Arturo Coello, currently ranked FIP World #1. Their partnership dominates the professional circuit with aggressive net play and explosive finishing power. Tapia’s precision and Coello’s court control combine to create one of the most feared pairings in global padel. Their presence in Abu Dhabi elevates the evening to championship-level intensity.
Tactical mastery meets dynamic flair
Opposing them are Federico Chingotto, ranked FIP World #3, and Jorge Nieto, ranked FIP World #7 and widely known as “Coki” Nieto. Chingotto’s defensive skill and relentless movement contrast sharply with Nieto’s aggressive shot selection. Together, they bring tactical resilience and rapid transitions into the match. This clash of styles promises rallies that test endurance as much as skill.
Match schedule and arena atmosphere
An opening warm-up match begins at 8:00 PM, setting the pace before the headline pairing steps onto the court at 9:00 PM. The controlled indoor setting ensures uninterrupted play regardless of outdoor conditions. Spectators can expect dynamic lighting, high-energy music, and a stadium atmosphere designed to amplify every point. The evening concludes at approximately midnight, allowing for smooth departure planning.
Reaching Space 42 Arena
Drivers can reach the venue by heading southeast on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street and taking Exit 29 toward Khalifa City before continuing toward Al Raha Beach East. From there, merging onto Al Bandar Street and turning onto Ar Rahah Street leads directly to the arena. Traffic around Al Raha Beach increases before major events, so early arrival is recommended. Visitors traveling from Dubai should allow extra time during evening peak hours, while taxis and ride-hailing services remain convenient options.
Public transport and accessibility
Public buses 170 and 175 stop at Al Rahah Street near the Transco Power Substation, followed by a short three to four-minute walk. This route provides an affordable alternative for spectators staying nearby. Taxi access is generally smooth, especially for late-night departures once event traffic disperses. Guests arriving from Al Ain or Dubai are advised to consider post-event travel times before midnight.
Audience suitability and event appeal
The Ultimate Padel Match suits sports enthusiasts, couples, and solo spectators who appreciate high-performance competition. The close seating configuration makes the action visible from multiple angles, enhancing the spectator experience. This event offers both seasoned padel followers and first-time viewers a rare opportunity to watch elite international athletes compete live. The atmosphere blends competitive seriousness with accessible entertainment.
Weather outlook, tickets, and key reminders
Abu Dhabi evenings in mid-February are generally mild, with outdoor temperatures typically comfortable for light jackets before and after the event. While the arena is indoor, traffic around Al Raha Beach can become dense between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM. Ticket prices are approximately listed depending on seating category and may vary closer to the event date, with bookings commonly handled through TICKETMASTER and PLATINUMLIST. Secure your seats early, as a one-night-only event featuring world-ranked players is expected to sell out quickly. Insights noted by the editorial team at www.few.ae suggest that international padel showcases in Abu Dhabi consistently attract strong regional interest from across the UAE.