Dubai Sevens boss expects strong international turnout despite Iran war

Despite the ongoing conflict in Iran, the organizers of the Emirates Dubai Sevens are optimistic about a strong international turnout for the upcoming event. Scheduled to take place from November 27 to 29 at The Sevens Stadium, the tournament will serve as the first leg of the HSBC SVNS World Series. Dubai has consistently been a top venue for the World Rugby-managed global circuit for rugby sevens since its inception in 1999.

Mathew Tait, the general manager and festival director, expressed confidence that the participation levels will be "the same as 2025, if not up." He emphasized that there are teams still in communication with the organizers, holding off on registration, but he reassures that everything is under control. Tait explained that his team is in regular communication with World Rugby and international teams to address any concerns and provide reassurances about the situation on the ground.

The Dubai Sevens has evolved into a multisport carnival, attracting over 88,000 attendees last year. This year, Gaelic football will join rugby as one of the featured sports, with four Gaelic football competition tiers for both men and women, ranging from elite to open levels. Tait highlighted the addition of Gaelic football as a positive development for the event's international appeal, and he is hopeful that it can grow globally in the future.