The NBA has no current plans to hold preseason games in the Middle East due to the ongoing war and regional conflict, sources told ESPN. While no games were officially announced for this year in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, discussions had been held with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, and Washington Wizards.

The league also explored hosting its first game in Doha, Qatar, but these plans were not finalized. The NBA's partnership with Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, which includes preseason games and an NBA Global Academy, will continue, with games expected to return in the future. The NBA is also expected to revisit playing in Qatar at a later date.

This decision comes after the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers played preseason games in Abu Dhabi in October ahead of the 2025-26 season. The 2027 FIBA World Cup is scheduled for Doha next August, with an NBA preseason game previously considered as part of the lead-up.