There is a unique build up to the World Rugby 7s Series and it kicks off in December in Dubai. The elite and invitational tournaments attract the best of the best. Rugby 7s has grown in profile in 2016 with the Rio Olympics but the Dubai 7s has its own powerful history and a strong naming rights sponsor in Emirates Airlines.
In December, a team from Talking Rugby Union will head to Dubai, flying from Manchester with Emirates. The three-day visit will allow rugby union fans to get a unique insight into the tournament.
Talking Rugby Union favourites, Mike Friday, Dan Bibby, Ruaridh McConnochie and Freddie Strange will be on show. Keep your eyes on Rugby Union Fans Facebook page for LIVE action and analysis.
In the build up to this year’s tournament we have been working with The Gulf Rugby Paper in an effort to get behind the scenes of this famous event.
There is plenty of activity and the event and its sponsors actively get into the community and two weeks ago they launched the Partner Schools Programme with its first school visit to GEMS Royal Dubai School. Over 3000 students from 15 schools across two Emirates are expected to participate in the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens Partner Schools Programme which encourages involvement in the sport and gives advice on how to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
Every year, schools across the UAE are invited to participate in the programme which was launched to create a legacy from the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens. The specially designed programme motivates children to get involved in rugby, promote active lifestyles, encourage healthy living and learn about the various nations participating at this year’s event, all of this is implemented through a range of academic and sporting activities at each school.
The resources provided include the ‘Schools’ Rugby Workbook’, the fun ‘Adopt A Nation’ exercise and the creative ‘Design A Kit’ competition as well as the popular Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens Passing Challenge with Sabaa the mascot.
Donal Kilalea, Tournament Commercial and Operations Manager said: “Every year we endeavor to create awareness of the game at the grassroots level in a fun and engaging manner. We would like to help children understand the importance of sports and a healthy lifestyle as well as create a sense of belonging by learning about the different nations taking part at this year’s event. We would like to thank all participating schools and we look forward to visiting you in the next few weeks.”
Organisers are encouraging ticket purchase in advance and save money in the process. Taking place 1-3 December at The Sevens Stadium, excited fans can purchase their tickets online at www.dubairugby7s.com or at Emirates Group Headquarters, dnata Travel Stores, Go Sport and Park n Shop.
Ticket Prices (general admission) are:
• Thursday - FREE ADMISSION
• Friday 2 December - in advance AED300, on the day AED400
• Saturday 3 December - in advance AED300, on the day AED400
• Season Tickets (Friday and Saturday) - in advance AED500, on the day AED600
• Children under 12 admitted free.
• Don’t forget to visit www.brightsuntravel.com for travel advice
• Special reserved seating and hospitality packages are available - please visit: www.dubairugby7s.com
In a special offer this year, Emirates Skywards Members can redeem tickets for the event using their Miles; members should visit the Sports and Culture section of Skywards at www.emirates.com to avail this offer
