Australian Open qualifying rounds to be held in Middle East around Christmas

The qualifying rounds of next year's Australian Open are being set to take place around Christmas time, with matches most likely being held in the Middle East.

The tournament organizers have plans to hold the women's qualifying in Dubai, whereas their male counterparts will be compering in Abu Dhabi, before traveling to Australia on chartered flights.

Although an official date hasn't been set yet, players who qualify for the season's first Grand Slam are expected to leave for Australia at the end of December, as warm-up events for the Australian Open begin in January.

Australian health officials have already stressed the importance of having all participating players arrive well in advance in accordance with Covid restrictions, as this will allow them adequate time to train and prepare in the controlled bubble that has been proposed for the event.