Dubai rugby 7s:
Featuring 16 of the best Sevens nations in the world, the Dubai Rugby Sevens has grown into a magical sporting event that attracts fans from around the globe.
In what is truly a unique experience, the Dubai Exiles Rugby ground is transformed into the ultimate sporting arena with the free-standing stadium built from the ground up to accommodate 32,000 passionate fans every day.
In total, over 70,000 people (including a sell out on the final day) rolled through the gates over the three days last year to make it the most successful Dubai Rugby Sevens ever.
And 2007 is shaping to be even bigger.
From November 29 to December 1 the rugby carnival returns to Dubai for the 38th time.
It is not just the international action that makes this such a magnificent event either. Away from the white-hot atmosphere of the international matches, competitions featuring International Invitation, Gulf, Local Social, Ladies, Veterans, and Youth see all four grass pitches in almost constant use over the three days.
Over 160 teams and 1,750 players strap on their boots for the rugby extravaganza, which has been voted for the fifth year running What’s On’s “Best Sporting Event”.
Last year it was South Africa who took out the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens trophy honours by beating the All Blacks 31-12 in a thrilling final.
Away from the pitch, the Rugby Village has been expanded to cope with the increased crowd numbers and to also cater for the hugely popular ‘Rugby Rock’ concert which is held on the last night of the tournament.
Once again, thousands of visitors from around the region and beyond are expected to make this yet another colourful occasion.
A traditional Arabian welcome awaits all our friends from across the world and we look forward to welcoming you (back) to Dubai.Buses at your service
To help transport 32,000 revellers from the Dubai Exiles Rugby Ground at the end of each day’s play, up to twelve double decker buses will be working overtime to bring people back into central locations in Dubai.
The Big Bus company, the popular tourist bus service which shows visitors the delights of Dubai, will be on hand from 7pm until after midnight to transfer people around the city.
And the best part – it’s free!
The buses will rotate every 10 minutes and can hold up to 70 people.
“The message is very clear – we are asking people to leave their cars at home and utilize the buses at the end of the day to help ensure a smooth flow of people from the ground back into Dubai," said Gary Chapman, President Group Services and Dnata, Emirates Group.
“We are very aware that people don’t want to be waiting in long queues at the end of all the fun at the Sevens and this system will offer the quickest and best way to move on to your next location."
Hundreds of taxis will also be available for people wishing to go straight home or wanting to go to locations not offered on the bus service.
