The Dubai International Cricket Stadium is one of the two locations for the continental tournament.
The location is known for being impartial and providing bowlers and hitters with equal chances.
However, as the match transitions from evening to night, dew becomes a major factor that can influence the outcome of the game.
These are the venue’s main details.
Dew Factor and Match Trends at Dubai International Stadium
Dew often plays a significant role in matches at the Dubai International Stadium. Fast bowlers usually get assistance in the initial overs as the new ball swings, making it tough for batsmen to score runs during the power plays. This is why teams prefer being cautious to avoid losing early wickets.
During day matches, spinners become effective in the middle overs as the pitch slows down a bit. However, in evening matches, teams often prefer to chase because of the dew factor, which makes it harder for bowlers to grip the ball.
Statistical Evidence
Teams batting second have been more successful in recent times. Winning the toss and opting to bowl first has often paid off. For instance, in the 2025 ILT20, 11 out of 15 matches in Dubai were won by the team batting second (as per ESPNcricinfo).
The average run rate of teams batting first in Dubai this year is 7.90, while it rises to 8.40 in the second innings. This clearly highlights the impact of dew on match outcomes – a trend that could also influence the Asia Cup 2025.
T20I Stats at Dubai International Stadium
The Dubai International Stadium has so far hosted 93 Men’s T20 Internationals. Out of these, 45 matches were won by the team batting first.
Average run rate (1st innings): 7.35
Average run rate (2nd innings): 7.28
The highest successful chase at this venue was 184 by Sri Lanka against Bangladesh in 2022, while the lowest total defended was 144 by Pakistan against England in 2012 (among full-member teams).
Teams and Records
Pakistan own a solid T20I record in Dubai. As UAE has hosted several of their bilateral series, Pakistan have played the most T20Is here – 32 matches, out of which they won 18 games (including Super-Over results).
Other teams have also performed well:
India: 5 wins in 9 games
Sri Lanka: 5 wins in 8 games
Afghanistan: 7 wins in 11 games
Bangladesh: 2 wins in 4 games