Heading into yet another new year, rugby fans now have one more reason to look forward to this year as the Emirates Dubai 7s is back with the opening round of the HSBC SVNS 2025 series. Scheduled for November 29 to December 1 at the Sevens Stadium, the competition involves 12 of the top-ranked men’s and women’s rugby sevens national teams, the last time they faced each other before the Paris 2024 Olympics. Further to this, Sugababes and Stormzy are set to perform at the weekend adding spice to the event for both sports enthusiast and music lovers.
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Historic Olympic Rivalries Renewed on Dubai Turf
Coming back after a thrilling Olympics that was viewed by millions across the globe, the top rugby teams around the globe are again to rekindle some of the existing rivalries. The first tournament in SVNS 2025 series takes place in Emirates Dubai 7s where 12 best men’s and women’s teams will play desperately to win. Two action-packed days on Pitches 1 and 2 will be followed by the teams’ quite hardy matches to get into cup finals on Sunday.
Highlights of the Women’s Tournament
Starting Saturday, 30 November, the Women’s Olympic Champions, New Zealand, face Brazil at 9:00 a.m. on Pitch 2, while silver medalists Canada open against Japan on Pitch 1. Other notable matches include USA vs. Great Britain at 9:22 a.m., Ireland vs. Fiji at 9:44 a.m., and Australia vs. SVNS newcomers China at 9:44 a.m. The day will culminate with a rematch of the Olympic final, New Zealand vs. Canada, at 4:07 p.m.
Highlights of the Men’s Tournament
The men’s tournament kicks off with New Zealand facing the USA at 6 a.m., the first match is scheduled on the field, and at 10:28 a.m., two South American countries, Argentina, and Uruguay will battle each other The defending champions, the South Africans, will take on the Australians at 10:50 a.m. The day will be concluded with thrilling games like Fiji against New Zealand. France, the reigning Olympic champions, will go head-to-head with South Africa at 8:44 p.m.
Family-Friendly Fun, Music, and Entertainment All Weekend
The Emirates Dubai 7s isn’t just about rugby—it’s a three-day festival packed with entertainment for all ages:
- Family Friday (November 29): Open to the public and free charge, including games and stalls for children and teenagers, snacks, and fun sections.
- Sugababes Performance: Soon fans will take time off and watch the British pop icons perform latest hits on Rugby Rocks stage on Saturday.
- Stormzy Concert: As the climax of the festival, British rapper Stormzy will perform on Sunday night.
According to Festival Director Mathew Tait, “The Emirates Dubai 7s is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of sportsmanship, community, and entertainment.”
Also Read: MOTN Festival Kicks Offs in in Al Dhafra and Al Ain from 28 November to 2 December
Beyond Rugby: Tournaments and Sporting Masterclasses
During the course of the fest, the patrons can also have 16 rugby matches, six netball games, two cricket games, and three fitness bouts. These games will attract nearly 6,500 competitors in Dubai that will exhibit the best standards of sportsmanship. For sports lovers everyone has an opportunity to hone their skills through master classes led by the rugby and cricket sports ambassadors.
Tickets and Seating Options for Every Type of Fan
The costs of the Emirates Dubai 7s tickets include day pass at AED 425 and weekend pass at AED 550. Children under 4 years of age and the people getting into the Friday’s events have free entry; People of Determination have a reduced ticket price of 325 AED.
To improve the hospitality offer of the venue, a new multi-functional Sunroom was created which includes Pitch 1 view, F&B, and entertainment facilities. South Grandstand has standard and premium reserved areas that give the fans great angle of vision towards Pitch 1.
Join Dubai’s Most Anticipated Festival Weekend
With the return of the Emirates Dubai 7s, sports lovers, music lovers and families will have a packed weekend to look forward to. The rugby fan, music lover or just for anyone looking to enjoy a good day outside with his or her family, the Emirates Dubai 7s fit the bill perfectly. Tickets can be booked from Emirates Dubai 7s official website and reserved seating are available at emiratesdubai7s.com. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this historical sports event, international performance artists as well as an exciting display of the UAE National Day.