Known to be a hybrid between squash and tennis, Padel is becoming a sport in a league of its own. Arriving all the way from the shores of Spain in 2014, it blossomed and became widely popular among the Egyptian community especially during the pandemic as it was one of the only sports that was relatively safe to play outdoors.
Today, it is a full-fledged sport and now Egypt has a professional national team winning several competitions. They even set up junior training programs to promote the sport among kids. Just yesterday, the padel community had a big win with Egypt’s male padel team being the first African team to qualify for the World Padel Championships.
With the sport’s popularity, more and more courts are opening up in Egypt, especially in Cairo. To take part and try out the sport, the Scoop team curated some of the best spots to check out.
iPadel (New Cairo & 6 October)
Open in two New Cairo locations, Hayah International Academy and Tagamoa Heights Club. It will also soon be opening at 6 October at West Mark Mall, an open-air promenade that houses restaurants and cafes. Hayah International Academy has five courts while Tagamoa Heights Club has three courts. You can use their courts for a casual game or you can join their academy to receive professional training in the sport using this link.
Price: 300 EGP for a 60-minute session
The Turf (New Cairo)
Within the outskirts of New Cairo, you’ll find the Turf, a facility known as a hub for sports, music and culture. It is located inside Hyde park’s Hydeout, an open-air green space packed with food trucks, restaurants, and entertainment. For a casual fun game with friends, the Turf can be a great option. Afterward, you can hit one of its food trucks or check out its seasonal open-air cinema.
As it only has two glass courts facing its football court, you will need to book beforehand. New slots open every three days. To book a court you can call this number: 00201555253867 or use this link for online booking.
Price: 400 EGP for a 60-minute session
Club 7 (Maadi)
In the heart of Maadi, you’ll find Club 7; a boutique club that houses several sports and cultural facilities including tennis courts as well as a football court and a ballet studio. It has six glass padel courts overlooking their large football court.
You can book a court by using this link. Depending on the time slot, you can pick either a 60 or 90-minute session. Free cancellation is 4 hours before the time you booked. For a late cancellation WhatsApp 01101515311 and send them a screenshot of your reservation. At the court, you’ll be given four padel racquets and sleeve gloves.
Prices:
360 EGP for a 60-minute session
540 EGP for a 90-minute session
HPadel (Nasr City)
Inside Cairo’s International Stadium, after you go past the main gate, head to gate 9 and then walk towards the Indoor Courts Hall. That is where you will find their glass padel courts. Other than casual play, you can also join their academy and take part in tournaments, depending on your skill level.
They are open daily from 4 pm to 3 am. You can book a court by using this link. They offer 60-minute sessions. They also provide the option of booking the court on a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly basis.
Price: 300 EGP for a 60-minute session
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