New Delhi: As the New Year arrives, Mahendra Singh Dhoni frequently finds himself in his favourite spot — Dubai. Whether it’s the dazzling city lights, the ideal December climate, or quality time with his family by the shore, the former Indian cricket captain has made the UAE his go-to winter retreat. Over time, Dhoni’s holiday traditions in Dubai have become as memorable as his composed demeanour on the cricket field.
The 43-year-old cricket icon, celebrated for his calm nature both on and off the field, has made it a habit to welcome the new year in the UAE. Whether enjoying moments with family, reconnecting with friends, or sharing joyful times with fellow cricketers, Dhoni enjoys the city’s lively atmosphere. This year, he was seen wearing a Santa suit at a Christmas party organized by Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon, spreading joy among his wife Sakshi, daughter Ziva, and their friends, including UK-based entrepreneur Kabir Bahia.
Why does MS Dhoni love Dubai?
Captain Cool, renowned for his candid personality, revealed why he loves Dubai during an event organized by Etihad Airways in Chennai.
“I always speak the truth or I keep quiet. Since I’m speaking, I will say the truth. So I have to say the truth. I’ve been to UAE more often than not,” Dhoni said, apologising for not visiting Abu Dhabi except for cricketing duties.
“Around Christmas, we spend time in Dubai as a family. I’m not somebody who travels a lot and does a lot of things. So even when I’m in Dubai, we do a lot of things. I play padel tennis and try out some upcoming sports.
“The weather is nice in December. After the game, maybe a gym session because I want to get ready for the IPL [Indian Premier League] season, which starts by April. So these are the things that I do over there. I haven’t explored much beyond that.
“My daughter loves it because she can do a lot of stuff there, but for me, I’m mostly sitting in one place,” Dhoni explained.
MS Dhoni is ready for the next IPL season:
Seeing Dhoni in Dubai brings immense joy to Chennai Super Kings supporters. It signals that their cherished “Thala” (leader) is gearing up for the upcoming IPL season, which kicks off on March 14.
Whether in life, leading a team, or batting, Dhoni prefers to keep things uncomplicated. Recently, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who shocked fans with his retirement announcement following the third Test against Australia in Brisbane, praised his former captain.
MS Dhoni as the best leader:
“Dhoni got most of the basics right. Most of the other leaders miss the basic things, which makes the game look difficult for them,” Ashwin, 38, told Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain on the Sky Sports Podcast. The spinner will reunite with his former captain at the Super Kings for the new season.
Whether it’s spending Christmas in Dubai, working on his fitness for the IPL, or guiding his team with calm resolve, Captain Cool continues to be a legendary figure in the cricketing world. For Dhoni, Dubai is not just a place — it’s where he strikes the ideal balance of family, enjoyment, and the concentration required to maintain his excellence on the field.
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