Dubai: A Sevens history to be proud of
There are very few sporting events that are older than the country in which they are held, but that is the case for the Dubai Rugby Sevens.
A Sevens tournament has been held in Dubai for 43 years, a remarkable fact given the UAE will celebrate its 41st anniversary on 2 December - but it is a fact indicative of the unique and successful history of the now-named Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens.
As well as playing host to the sport’s best players as part of the HSBC Sevens World Series, the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens also remains true to its roots by staging the world’s biggest Invitation tournament, which this year has over 190 teams competing, ranging from amateurs to non-seeded international teams.
From part-time players to professionals, Dubai has proved that Sevens rugby can flourish in the most arid of places, especially since the late 80s when title sponsor Emirates Airline saw the potential of sports sponsorship.
“Emirates started sponsoring the Dubai Rugby Sevens in 1987, so that goes back a long way,” said Gary Chapman, Emirates’ President Group Services & dnata. “At that time, Emirates was just a fledgling airline, a couple of years old, but wanted to get its brand out there and support what was happening in Dubai because the two are quite intertwined.
“We managed to grow the event and get more international coverage, which not only got Dubai’s brand out there, but also the Emirates brand. Sport is widely watched, so it’s a good way to connect,” he continued.
“We feel we have a corporate responsibility to what is going on in Dubai, so we do a lot locally with the likes of cricket, golf, horse racing and football, while we also have 7he Sevens facility, which is available for all the community to make use of.”
The 2012 Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens takes place from 29th November to 1st December and is expected to be bigger and better than previous events, with more players, games and visitors expected at 7he Sevens.
Get your Dubai Sevens Tickets!
Tickets are available to purchase at a number of outlets throughout Dubai, or online via the official seller HERE >>
Reserved seating and corporate hospitality packages are also available, as well as a creche facility for children. For further information click HERE >>
