Squash in Dubai, UAE

Squash can be played in almost every hotel in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates. Alongside this there are many clubs and fitness centres which also have squash courts available for use.

Squash began here in Dubai in earnest with the formation of a Men’s League.  The league began in Dubai 28 years ago back in 1975. At that time the main venue for playing was, as it is still today, The Dubai Country Club. League Committee member Shravan Kumar, was one of the first people to play in the league all those years ago, as was ex-UAESRA Chairman Rory O’Connor. Rory who is still playing squash for the Dubai Country Club Macateers 1 Team.

In 1975 there were only six teams playing against each other obviously in just one division without any form of sponsorship.That has grown in the 28 years of play into five divisions. Divisions 2-4 each have six teams registered whereas Divisions 1 and 5 both have eight teams registered. Altogether there are close on 300 players registered but of course not all get to play every week.

The league year is split into three seasons of ten weeks when all teams will play each other home and away. At the end of each season, each top team will be promoted, the bottom team will be relegated and the others will then remain in place to battle it out the following season. Scores are recorded for each individual player and at the award ceremony at the end of each season the top three players from each division are awarded a prize for their efforts.

Item of interest to league old timers and Dubaisquash History buffs: Origins of Squash Raquets in Dubai (and also a great site for old Dubai information, links and photos...)

The league organiser is Shravan Kumar, the league co-ordinator is Chris Wind of the Dubai Country Club and the current UAESRA Chairman is Andy Staines. For a detailed listing of the current committee members click here.