Rules & court guide
Everything you need to know before stepping on court — from court size to serving, scoring and etiquette.
Court dimensions
20m
Length
10m
Width
3m
Back wall height
The playing surface is divided by a net, with service boxes marked 6.95 metres from the net on each side.
Frequently asked questions
What is padel?
Padel is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played in doubles on an enclosed court surrounded by glass and metal mesh walls, which are part of the game.
How big is a padel court?
A standard padel court is 20 metres long and 10 metres wide. The back walls are made of glass and are 3 metres high, while the side walls are 3 metres at the ends and step down to 2 metres. The net is 88 cm high in the centre and 92 cm at the sides.
How many players are on a padel court?
Padel is played as doubles — two teams of two players. Singles is not a recognised format in official padel.
How do you score in padel?
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis: points go 15, 30, 40 and game. You need to win six games to take a set, and usually matches are best of three sets. If a set reaches 6-6, a tie-break is played to 7 points.
How do you serve in padel?
The serve must be hit underarm from behind the service line, between the centre line and the side wall. The ball must bounce once in the service box diagonally opposite before it is returned. The server gets two attempts, and the serve may touch the side wall after bouncing in the correct box.
Can the ball hit the walls?
Yes. After the ball has bounced on your side, you can let it hit the glass or mesh walls before returning it. You may also play the ball off your own back or side walls. However, the ball may only touch the ground once before you hit it.
What counts as a fault?
A fault occurs if the ball bounces twice on your side, hits the wire fencing before the back glass on the serve, lands outside the court lines, or touches you or your partner. Hitting the ball before it crosses the net, or touching the net during play, is also a fault.
What is the 'golden point'?
At deuce (40-40), the next point decides the game. The receiving pair chooses which player receives the serve, and the winning side takes the game. This is called the golden point.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable sportswear and non-marking court shoes. Most clubs provide rackets and balls, but you are welcome to bring your own padel racket. Bring water and a towel, especially during summer months in the UAE.
Is there a dress code or etiquette?
Keep play moving by retrieving balls quickly, apologise for unintentional net cords, and respect court booking times. Avoid shouting or throwing rackets, and always leave the court tidy after your session.
Can children play padel?
Absolutely. Padel is easy to pick up because the walls keep rallies going. Many clubs in Dubai offer junior coaching and shorter courts for younger players.
How do I book a court or coach?
Use the Clubs & Courts directory or Coaches page on Padel Dubai to find a venue, check live availability and book directly through the site.
Ready to play?
Find a court, coach or playing partner in Dubai and start your padel journey today.