Your First Padel Session in Dubai: What to Expect

Booked your first padel game in Dubai? Great choice. Padel is one of the easiest racket sports to pick up, and most people are rallying within their first session. Here is exactly what to expect so you walk on court relaxed and ready, from what to bring to how a game actually works.

Before you go: what to bring

• Clothing: light, breathable sportswear and comfortable court shoes (flat soles with grip). All Redline courts are outdoor, so in the warmer months pick early morning or evening slots and bring a cap and water.

• Racket: you can rent one at the club, so there is no need to buy before your first game. When you are ready, see our beginner racket guide.

• Water: more than you think, especially in summer. Hydrate before and during.

How a padel session works

Padel is played in doubles, two against two, on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court. The glass and mesh walls are in play, which keeps rallies alive and makes the game forgiving for beginners. A session is usually 60 to 90 minutes. New to the sport entirely? Start with what is padel and the rules explained simply.

Your first few points

The serve is underarm and easy to learn: bounce the ball, hit it below waist height into the diagonal box. Scoring is the same as tennis (15, 30, 40, game). The biggest beginner tip: let the ball come off the back glass and play it on the way out rather than rushing it. A quick warm-up beforehand helps you move freely from the first point.

Court etiquette

Keep it simple: call the score before serving, retrieve balls for the server, and agree friendly line calls. Padel is a social, welcoming game, and everyone was a beginner once. Relax and enjoy the rallies.

Do you need a lesson first?

Not at all, most people just play. That said, a single lesson before or after your first game accelerates everything, because a coach fixes grip and positioning before bad habits form. Explore padel coaching in Dubai or where to learn when you are ready to improve faster.

Booking your first session at Redline

Redline has three outdoor Dubai venues (Al Barsha, Al Quoz, and rooftop Zabeel House), so there is a court near you. Grab a friend or two, pick a cooler time slot, and play. Book your first court and you are set.

FAQ

Do I need experience to play padel? No. Padel is designed to be easy to start, and the walls keep rallies going, so beginners have fun from the first session.

How many people do I need? Padel is doubles, so ideally four. Only have one partner? See our guide to single and 1v1 padel courts, or use the club to find players.

What should I wear? Light sportswear, court shoes with grip, a cap, and plenty of water. All courts are outdoor, so dress for the weather and favour cooler time slots in summer.

Do I need to buy a racket? No, rackets are available to rent at the club for your first games.

Ready to play? Book a court at Redline and enjoy your first padel session.