Every Nike Kobe Releasing in 2026: Complete Release Calendar and Where to Buy in Dubai

2026 is shaping up to be the biggest year for Nike Kobe releases since the Protro line launched. With over 20 confirmed drops spanning the Kobe 1 through Kobe 11, plus lifestyle models like the Kobe Air Force 1 and even a Kobe Dunk Low, there is something for every Mamba fan this year. The highlight reel includes the return of the legendary "81 Points" Kobe 1, the highly anticipated "Mamba Out" Kobe 11 Elite, a Caitlin Clark collaboration, and an FC Barcelona partnership.

But here is the problem for sneakerheads in the UAE: every release calendar online is built for the US market. Drop dates, retail prices in dollars, and SNKRS app links that do not apply in the Middle East. This guide changes that. Below you will find every confirmed Nike Kobe release for 2026, with AED pricing, UAE availability info, and where to actually buy them in Dubai.

Bookmark this page. We will update it throughout the year as new releases are confirmed.

Why 2026 Is the Year of Kobe

Nike has gone all in on the Kobe line in 2026. After Vanessa Bryant signed a new long term deal with the Swoosh following Kobe and Gigi's passing in 2020, Nike committed to bringing back the most beloved Kobe silhouettes as "Protro" editions. Protro stands for "performance retro," meaning these are not simple retros. Nike updates the cushioning, materials, and construction while keeping the original design language intact.

In 2025, releases like the Kobe 6 Protro "Reverse Grinch," the Kobe 9 Elite "Masterpiece," and the Kobe 8 "What The Kobe" proved that demand for Mamba sneakers is stronger than ever. Almost every drop sold out instantly. For 2026, Nike is expanding the lineup with Protro editions of models that have never been retroed before, including the Kobe 3 Low, Kobe 10 Elite, Kobe 11 Elite, and even the Kobe AD.

For collectors and basketball fans in the UAE, this means more opportunities to own a piece of Kobe's legacy. But it also means competition is fierce, and knowing the release schedule ahead of time is your biggest advantage.

Complete Nike Kobe 2026 Release Calendar

Prices below are listed in both USD (global retail) and AED (approximate UAE pricing). Release dates are based on confirmed global launch schedules. Some releases may arrive in the UAE on the same day, while others may see a slight delay depending on the retailer.

January 2026

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low EM Protro "Purple Dynasty"
Colorway: Purple Dynasty / Sanded Purple / Fierce Purple
Style Code: IH1401 500
Release Date: January 1, 2026
Price: $190 USD / approx. AED 700

An all purple take on the Kobe 9 EM Low silhouette. The monochromatic purple colorway pays tribute to Kobe's Laker years and delivers a clean, wearable look for both court and street.

Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Low "Cool Grey"
Colorway: Cool Grey / Wolf Grey
Style Code: IB0018 004
Release Date: January 20, 2026
Price: $120 USD / approx. AED 440

The Kobe x Air Force 1 Low is a lifestyle silhouette that merges two of Nike's most iconic lines. The Cool Grey colorway is subtle and versatile, making it an easy daily rotation shoe.

Nike Kobe 1 Protro "81 Points"
Colorway: White / Black / Court Purple
Style Code: IM0542 100
Release Date: January 22, 2026
Price: $210 USD / approx. AED 770

This is the shoe Kobe wore on January 22, 2006 when he dropped 81 points against the Toronto Raptors, the second highest single game scoring performance in NBA history. The "81 Points" Protro has not been available since 2019 and is one of the most anticipated releases of the entire year. Expect this to sell out immediately.

Nike Kobe 8 Protro "Year of the Horse"
Colorway: Light Crimson / Bright Citron / Vivid Blue
Style Code: IM0594 600
Release Date: January 31, 2026
Price: $200 USD / approx. AED 735

Originally released in 2014, the "Year of the Horse" Kobe 8 features a vibrant multicolor design celebrating the Chinese zodiac. This Protro edition updates the performance tech while keeping the original colorway intact.

February 2026

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low EM Protro "Hydrogen Blue"
Colorway: Hydrogen Blue / Light Photo Blue / White
Style Code: IH1401 402
Release Date: February 1, 2026
Price: $190 USD / approx. AED 700

A clean icy blue colorway on the Kobe 9 EM Low. The light blue tones give this pair a fresh, airy feel that works perfectly for the Dubai climate.

Nike Kobe 1 Protro "Work Blue"
Colorway: Work Blue / Metallic Gold / Summit White
Style Code: IM0541 400
Release Date: February 4, 2026
Price: $210 USD / approx. AED 770

A bold blue and gold Kobe 1 Protro that gives strong Lakers energy. The metallic gold accents elevate this beyond a standard retro.

Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Low Protro "City of Champions"
Colorway: Work Blue / Metallic Gold / Summit White
Style Code: IM0583 400
Release Date: February 4, 2026
Price: $150 USD / approx. AED 550

A companion piece to the Kobe 1 "Work Blue," this Air Force 1 Low carries the same blue and gold palette in a lifestyle silhouette. A more affordable entry point for Kobe collectors.

Nike Kobe 6 Protro "All Star 3D Hollywood"
Colorway: Dark Grey / Chlorine Blue / Daring Red
Style Code: IQ3902 002
Release Date: February 13, 2026
Price: $200 USD / approx. AED 735

The shoe Kobe wore at the 2011 NBA All Star Game in Los Angeles. The 3D inspired design was revolutionary at the time and remains one of the most visually striking Kobe colorways ever created. This drop is timed to coincide with the 2026 NBA All Star Game.

Nike Kobe 3 Low Protro "Warning Label"
Colorway: Purple Venom / Black
Style Code: IU3313 500
Release Date: February 13, 2026
Price: $230 USD / approx. AED 845

The Kobe 3 Low Protro is a brand new silhouette that has never been retroed before. The "Warning Label" colorway in purple and black is a nod to Kobe's fearless on court persona. This is a must cop for collectors who want something that has never been available in Protro form.

March 2026

Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro "Thunder Blue"
Colorway: Thunder Blue / Laser Orange / Football Grey / Daybreak
Style Code: IH1401 401
Release Date: March 1, 2026
Price: $190 USD / approx. AED 700

A multicolor Kobe 9 EM Low that blends blue, orange, and grey tones. The bold color combination makes this a standout in the spring lineup.

Nike Kobe 5 Protro "Lower Merion Aces Away"
Colorway: Metallic Silver / Team Red / White
Style Code: IM0557 001
Release Date: March 23, 2026
Price: $200 USD / approx. AED 735

Part of the Lower Merion High School collection that pays tribute to where Kobe's basketball journey began. The silver and red colorway represents the school's away jersey. This release is part of a three piece Lower Merion drop happening on the same day.

Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Low "Lower Merion Aces" (Two Colorways)
Colorway 1: White / Team Red (IB0018 101)
Colorway 2: Team Red / White (IB0018 600)
Release Date: March 23, 2026
Price: $120 USD / approx. AED 440 each

Two Air Force 1 Low colorways completing the Lower Merion Aces pack. At AED 440, these are the most accessible Kobe releases of the year and perfect for anyone who wants to honour the Mamba legacy without spending on a Protro model.

April 2026

Nike Kobe 8 Protro EXT "Year of the Horse"
Colorway: Light Orewood Brown / Summit White / Red Stardust / Baroque Brown
Style Code: IM1820 100
Release Date: April 24, 2026
Price: $200 USD / approx. AED 735

A premium EXT (extended) version of the Year of the Horse Kobe 8 with upgraded materials and an earth tone colorway. The EXT line has always represented the luxury end of the Kobe range.

Spring 2026 (Exact Dates TBA)

Nike Kobe 8 EXT Protro "Year of the Horse" Black
Colorway: Black / University Red / Metallic Gold
Style Code: IO8152 001
Price: $290 USD / approx. AED 1,065

The premium black and gold EXT version of the Year of the Horse. At $290, this is the most expensive Kobe 8 drop of the year, suggesting ultra premium materials and construction.

Caitlin Clark x Nike Kobe 5 Protro
Colorway: Metallic Silver / University Red
Style Code: IV2712 001
Price: $190 USD / approx. AED 700

One of the biggest stories in sneakers this year. Caitlin Clark, the WNBA's biggest star, gets her own Kobe 5 Protro colourway after debuting a "Rookie of the Year" pair on court in 2025. The metallic silver and red design is expected to generate massive demand from both basketball fans and the growing women's sneaker market. This is widely expected to be the most hyped Kobe release of 2026.

Summer 2026 (Exact Dates TBA)

Kobe Bryant x Nike Dunk Low Protro "Draft Day"
Colorway: Fierce Purple / Blue Lagoon / Sail
Style Code: IM0586 500
Price: $135 USD / approx. AED 495

A Kobe themed Dunk Low is a first for the Nike Kobe line. The "Draft Day" colorway references the purple and teal of the Charlotte Hornets, who originally drafted Kobe in 1996 before trading him to the Lakers. At AED 495, this is the most budget friendly Kobe sneaker of the year.

Nike Kobe 5 Protro "Draft Day"
Release Date: Summer 2026
Price: $190 USD / approx. AED 700

A companion to the Dunk Low, this Kobe 5 Protro carries the same Draft Day theme in one of Kobe's most popular performance silhouettes.

Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Low Protro "Denim"
Colorway: Obsidian / Safety Orange / White
Style Code: IM1980 400
Price: TBA

A denim inspired Kobe Air Force 1 Low with navy blue and orange accents. This should sit in the AED 500 to 600 range based on previous Kobe AF1 pricing.

Nike Kobe 11 Elite Protro "Mamba Out"
Colorway: Black / Metallic Gold
Style Code: IM4260 001
Price: $220 USD / approx. AED 810

This is arguably the most emotionally significant Kobe sneaker ever made. The "Mamba Out" Kobe 11 Elite is the shoe Kobe wore during his final NBA game on April 13, 2016, when he scored 60 points in a legendary farewell performance against the Utah Jazz. The black and metallic gold colorway has never been retroed, making this a grail level release. Expect extremely limited quantities and instant sellouts worldwide.

August 2026

Nike Kobe 8 Protro "Mambacurial"
Colorway: Red Plum / Electric Green / Pink Flash
Style Code: IO6253 500
Release Date: August 8, 2026
Price: $200 USD / approx. AED 735

The "Mambacurial" blended Kobe's basketball heritage with Nike's football (soccer) Mercurial line. The vibrant plum, green, and pink colorway is one of the most unique in Kobe history. For sneaker fans in the UAE where football culture runs deep, this crossover design has special significance.

Nike Kobe 10 Elite Low Protro "Halo"
Colorway: White / White
Style Code: IO3415 100
Release Date: August 23, 2026
Price: TBA

The Kobe 10 Elite Low has never received a Protro treatment before. The all white "Halo" colorway is clean and minimal, a departure from the bold colours that dominate most of the 2026 lineup. The August 23 date aligns with Kobe's jersey number (8/24), making this a tribute drop.

Fall 2026 (Exact Dates TBA)

Nike Kobe AD Protro "Purple Stardust"
Colorway: Purple Stardust / Black
Style Code: IO8233 500
Price: $155 USD / approx. AED 570

The Kobe AD was Kobe's first post retirement signature model, and this is the first time it will receive the Protro treatment. At AED 570, it is one of the more accessible options in the fall lineup.

Nike Kobe 3 Protro "Orca"
Colorway: Black / Canyon Gold / Varsity Purple
Price: $210 USD / approx. AED 770

A bold black, gold, and purple Kobe 3 Protro that references the killer whale with its high contrast design. The Kobe 3 is an underrated silhouette that collectors are increasingly seeking out.

FC Barcelona x Nike Kobe 3 Low Protro
Colorway: Black / Metallic Gold
Style Code: IO6257 001
Price: $200 USD / approx. AED 735

Following the 2025 FC Barcelona x Kobe 4, Nike continues the football club partnership with a Kobe 3 Low. Kobe was a lifelong Barça supporter, and these crossover releases always generate strong demand in football loving regions like the Middle East.

Kobe Bryant x Nike Dunk Low "Lower Merion"
Colorway: Team Red / White
Style Code: IM0581 600
Price: $130 USD / approx. AED 475

A second Kobe Dunk Low rounds out the year, continuing the Lower Merion High School theme from the March drop. Red and white school colours make this a clean, wearable pair.

Where to Buy Nike Kobe in Dubai

Getting Kobe sneakers in the UAE requires a strategy. Most Protro releases sell out within minutes on global platforms, and not every drop is available through UAE retailers on launch day. Here are your best options:

Mad Kicks

Mad Kicks carries one of the largest selections of Nike Kobe sneakers in the Middle East. Because Mad Kicks operates as both a retail and resale platform, you can find Kobe models that are sold out everywhere else. Every pair is authenticated by the in house team before listing. Prices reflect market value, which may be above or below retail depending on the model and demand.

What makes Mad Kicks the best option for Kobe collectors in the UAE:

• Availability after sellout: When a release sells out on Nike.ae in seconds, Mad Kicks stocks it through their global sourcing network

• Authentication guaranteed: Every Kobe sneaker goes through multi point verification including box labels, stitching, materials, and sole construction

• Same day Dubai delivery: Order before 2 PM and get your Kobes delivered the same day across Dubai

• Try before you buy: Visit the Boxpark or Bluewaters store to see Kobe models in person

• Full size range: Access to US and international sizing that Nike.ae may not carry

Whether you are looking for a pair that just released or hunting an older Protro that you missed, the Mad Kicks Kobe collection is the first place to check.

Nike.ae (SNKRS App)

Nike's official UAE website and the SNKRS app carry select Kobe releases on launch day. The advantage is retail pricing. The disadvantage is that high demand pairs sell out in under a minute, and not every global release drops on Nike.ae. The SNKRS app uses a draw system for hyped releases, meaning you enter a raffle and hope for the best. If you hit, you pay retail. If you miss, your next stop should be Mad Kicks.

Foot Locker UAE

Foot Locker's UAE stores and website occasionally carry Kobe releases, typically general release colorways rather than limited drops. Availability varies and stock tends to be limited compared to the US.

Other Resale Platforms

Global platforms like StockX and GOAT ship to the UAE, but factor in international shipping fees, customs duties (5%), and longer delivery times. You may also encounter sizing and return complications. For buyers who want the sneaker in hand quickly with guaranteed authenticity, a local option like Mad Kicks is more practical.

Kobe Protro Sizing Guide for UAE Buyers

Nike Kobe Protro sneakers generally run true to size, but there are model specific differences worth knowing:

• Kobe 4, 5, 6 Protro: True to size for most feet. If you have wide feet, consider going up half a size

• Kobe 8 Protro: Runs slightly narrow. Wide foot buyers should go up half a size

• Kobe 9 Elite Protro: True to size with a snug midfoot lockdown. The Flyknit upper stretches slightly after wear

• Kobe 9 EM Low Protro: True to size with a more relaxed fit compared to the Elite

• Kobe 1, 3 Protro: These older silhouettes can run slightly large. Some buyers prefer going down half a size

• Kobe AF1 Low: True to size, same fit as a standard Air Force 1

• Kobe Dunk Low: True to size, same fit as a standard Nike Dunk

If you are unsure about sizing, the Mad Kicks team at the Boxpark or Bluewaters store can help you try on similar silhouettes before committing to a purchase.

Which Kobe Releases Will Be Hardest to Get?

Based on historical sell through data and current market hype, here are the releases most likely to sell out instantly in 2026:

• Kobe 1 Protro "81 Points" (January): The emotional significance and six year gap since the last release make this a guaranteed instant sellout

• Kobe 11 Elite Protro "Mamba Out" (Summer): The shoe from Kobe's final game has never been retroed. This will be the hardest cop of the year

• Caitlin Clark x Kobe 5 Protro (Spring): The crossover between WNBA hype and Kobe nostalgia creates unprecedented demand

• Kobe 6 Protro "All Star 3D" (February): All Star Game releases are always limited and highly collectible

• Kobe 3 Low Protro "Warning Label" (February): First ever Kobe 3 Low Protro, collectors will not want to miss this debut

For these releases, we recommend setting up notifications on the SNKRS app and also bookmarking the Mad Kicks Kobe page for post sellout availability.

Kobe 2026 Pricing: What to Expect in AED

Here is a quick reference for what each tier of Kobe release costs in the UAE:

• Kobe Air Force 1 Low: AED 440 to 550 (most affordable tier)

• Kobe Dunk Low: AED 475 to 495

• Kobe AD Protro: AED 570

• Kobe 5, 8, 9 EM Protro: AED 700 to 735 (core performance tier)

• Kobe 1, 3, 6 Protro: AED 735 to 845

• Kobe 10, 11 Elite Protro: AED 810+ (premium tier)

• Kobe 8 EXT Protro: AED 1,065 (ultra premium)

These are retail prices. On the resale market, hyped colorways like the "81 Points" and "Mamba Out" could trade at two to three times retail within the first week. Buying from Mad Kicks shortly after release typically offers better value than waiting, as Kobe resale prices tend to climb over time rather than drop.

The Legacy Behind the Line

For those newer to the Kobe sneaker world, here is a quick overview of why these shoes matter:

Kobe Bryant signed with Nike in 2003 and received his first signature shoe, the Kobe 1 (also known as the Zoom Kobe 1), in 2005. Over the next decade, the Kobe line revolutionized basketball footwear. The Kobe 4, released in 2009, was the first low top basketball shoe to be worn in an NBA game, forever changing how performance basketball shoes were designed. The Kobe 6 became a cultural icon beyond the court. The Kobe 8, 9, and 10 pushed the boundaries of Flyknit technology and lightweight construction.

After Kobe's retirement in 2016, the line was continued briefly before being paused. Following the tragic passing of Kobe and his daughter Gianna in January 2020, his wife Vanessa Bryant eventually reached a new agreement with Nike in 2022 to ensure the Mamba legacy continued through Protro releases and charitable contributions. A portion of proceeds from every Kobe Protro sale goes to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation, which supports underserved youth athletes.

When you buy a pair of Kobe Protros, you are not just buying sneakers. You are supporting a legacy that extends far beyond basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Nike Kobe sneakers in Dubai?

Yes. Nike Kobe sneakers are available in the UAE through Nike.ae, the SNKRS app, Foot Locker UAE, and resale retailers like Mad Kicks. However, many Protro releases sell out within minutes on Nike's official channels, so Mad Kicks is often the best option for securing pairs after sellout with guaranteed authentication and same day Dubai delivery.

What does Protro mean on Nike Kobe sneakers?

Protro stands for "performance retro." Unlike a standard retro release that simply reproduces the original shoe, a Protro model updates the internal technology (cushioning, traction, support) while maintaining the original exterior design. This means you get modern comfort and performance with the classic Kobe look.

How much do Nike Kobe Protros cost in the UAE?

Retail prices for Nike Kobe Protros in 2026 range from approximately AED 440 for the Kobe Air Force 1 Low to AED 1,065 for the premium Kobe 8 EXT. Most standard Protro models fall in the AED 700 to 845 range. Resale prices for sold out pairs vary based on demand and can be checked on the Mad Kicks website.

Are Nike Kobe sneakers good for actually playing basketball?

Yes. The Protro line is specifically designed for on court performance. Models like the Kobe 5, 6, and 8 Protro are still worn by active NBA and WNBA players including Caitlin Clark, DeMar DeRozan, and many others. The low profile design, responsive cushioning, and excellent traction make Kobe Protros some of the best performance basketball shoes available today.

What is the most expensive Nike Kobe releasing in 2026?

The Nike Kobe 8 EXT Protro "Year of the Horse" in Black / University Red / Metallic Gold at $290 USD (approximately AED 1,065) is the most expensive at retail. However, the Kobe 11 Elite Protro "Mamba Out" and the Kobe 1 Protro "81 Points" are expected to command the highest resale prices due to their emotional significance and limited availability.

Does Mad Kicks sell authentic Nike Kobe sneakers?

Yes. Every Nike Kobe sneaker sold at Mad Kicks goes through a multi point authentication process. The team verifies box labels, style codes, materials, stitching, sole construction, and Nike Air unit placement before listing any pair. Mad Kicks also offers same day delivery in Dubai and ships across the UAE and GCC. You can inspect pairs in person at their Boxpark and Bluewaters locations in Dubai.