Special Features
Dubai Rugby Sevens 2009
World record crowds, thrilling rugby action, entertainment second to none and an impressive new venue all ensured the 2008 Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens was an event to remember. After 38 years at the Al Awir ground, the move to Emirates new, purpose-built venue, The Sevens, on the Al Ain Road proved to be a resounding success, with the spirit of the previous venue encapsulated in a bigger and better setting for one of the region’s greatest sporting and social events of the year.The Sevens, which boasts six new pitches, saw over 130,000 fans streaming through its gates over the three days of the tournament.
In 2009, 16 of the best Sevens international teams in the world will be back to thrill the crowds as they aim to get the 2009/2010 IRB Sevens World Series off to the best possible start. The Dubai Sevens has grown into a magical event that not only attracts fans from around the globe but offers some of the best action – both on and off the pitch - anywhere on the planet. Away from the white-hot atmosphere of the international matches, competitions featuring International Invitation, Gulf, Local Social, Ladies, Veterans, and Youth teams will see all six pitches in almost constant use over three compelling days from December 3-5.
Central to everything will be the main pitch which is transformed into the ultimate sporting arena for the tournament with the free-standing stadium built around a permanent 5,000 seat grandstand set to accommodate the world’s most passionate rugby fans. With fans flying in from all corners of the globe for the event, a jam-packed rugby village providing top-notch entertainment and the best Sevens action, you have a fabulous mix of sport and entertainment that will rock Dubai like never before.
And to complete the rugby extravaganza, the hugely popular ’Rugby Rock’ concert will be held on the final night of the event to bring to a close the region’s biggest party and sporting spectacle.
Cheerleaders
The 2009 event will see the return of the ever-popular Aggreko Dynamos cheerleaders. The ’Dynamos’ have developed into a special attraction at the Sevens and provide high-octane performances that equal all the intensity of the rugby on the pitch.
The team of specially trained dancers flown in from Australia entertain the pulsating crowd on the main pitch during breaks in play to ensure the entertainment at the Dubai Sevens never stops.
Don’t miss your chance to see the Aggreko Dynamos in full force at ’The Sevens’.
Saba’a the Mascot
Saba’a the camel has become a much-loved part of the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens thanks to his charisma and love of the party atmosphere of the event.
The aptly named Saba’a got his name from the direct translation of the Arabic word for the number seven. He can always be spotted dancing up a storm and getting the crowds going on the side of the pitch or keeping the kids entertained in the rugby village and also plays a big part in the build-up to the Sevens, making star appearances at schools and shopping malls in the lead-up to kick-off.
Keep an eye out for his famous dance moves and don’t be afraid to give him a high five for his efforts! There’s also his energetic partner ’Scrummy’ who helps his mate in keeping the crowds entertained.
Rugby Rock
What better way to finish three days of rugby action than to party the night away at the famous ’Rugby Rock’ concert.
Held on the last night of the award-winning event, Rugby Rock attracts thousands of revelers keen to keep the party going with a collection of first-rate bands.
In the past, the likes of ZU2 have turned on the fireworks and added the finishing touches to the Middle East’s biggest sporting spectacle.
Website: http://www.dubairugby7s.com
