Two of the favourites for this week’s tournament face nightmare first round draws when the tournament gets underway on Monday.
Second seed and seven-time Dubai champion Roger Federer, who is bidding to win a 100th ATP tour title here this week, is up against the experienced Philip Kohlschreiber – a player who has won eight titles on the circuit.
Meanwhile in the match of the round, third seed Marin Cilic, back in Dubai after an eight-year absence, takes on the flamboyant Frenchman Gael Monfils.

Mid East Falcons win inaugural United Series Championship in Dubai
UAE to face Morocco in FIFA Arab Cup semi-final
Man City beat Palace, Villa edge West Ham in five-goal thriller
Rodrygo's winner lifts Real Madrid past Alaves to end losing streak
Mid East Falcons win the inaugural United Series Championship in Dubai
