Without a Padel? 6 Places to Play in Saudi

Padel tennis – or padel, as the cool kids say – was invented in Mexico in the 1960s, but has since through Latin America and to the world. In fact, it’s the second most popular participation sport in Spain today, second only to the beautiful game itself (soccer, that is) and Saudi Arabia is home to about a third of all the padel courts in Asia today. So, whether you caught the fever during COVID (see what we did there?) or have played since you were a kid, here are some of the best places to get your racquet on. 

1. Valley Padel @valleypadel (Riyadh) 

Set among the epic cliffs of Wadi Hanifa, Valley Padel is beautiful to play in day or night. You can reserve for a day’s game or check out the package offers for multiple games. And, if you’re a newbie looking to discover why it’s all the rage, you and up to two friends can sign up for a personal training session. 

2. Padel Rush @padelrush (Riyadh) 

For the ones who want it all! You can jump into one of the courts and play a game and then unwind at one of Padel Rush’s yoga sessions. They’ve got training sessions for beginners and skilled players, as well as tournaments you can join. Oh, and Padel Rush is open late, until 2 am, but be sure to check out the schedule. You can save on admission if you’re early – and Wednesdays are for the ladies! 

3. Padel Masters @padelmasters.sa (Riyadh) 

So, you want to feel like you’re the king/queen of the world while you thwack the ball back and forth? Check out Paddle Masters on the rooftop of the Riyadh Marriott, where you can survey the city lights like you own the place. Do keep your shoes on though, because you’ll want to grab a tasty bite at the terrace grill when you’re done. 

4. B-Padel @bpadel.sa (Jeddah) 

Billed as Jeddah’s first padel club, B-Padel is a pioneer in the Jeddah sporting scene. The club boasts four outdoor courts, a café and plenty of green space where your friends and family can relax. Centrally located in the Khalidiyyah neighborhood, it’s a stone’s throw from a football field and a fitness center, and just a short drive to the Jeddah Corniche along the Red Sea. 

5. Padel in @padelin_ksa (Riyadh/Jeddah/Dammam) 

The best-known franchise in the region, Padel Pursuit operates three branches in Saudi, on both coasts and in the capital, Riyadh. With a calendar full of activities and events, you’re sure to find something that fits your schedule. In addition to court booking, Padel In offers private and group coaching, competitions, and both youth and adult Padel Academy programs. 

6. Desert Padel @desertpadel.sa (Khobar/Dammam) 

With two locations on the Kingdom’s east coast, Desert Padel’s got you however and whenever you’d like to play. If you’d like to take the game indoors, the Dhahran branch is your best bet. But a short stroll from the Corniche with its parks, fountains and cafés, the Khobar location’s lush grounds are perfect for milder weather. With towering palm trees and plenty of green space to enjoy a coffee from the onsite café, you could easily spend a whole day here!