The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is this year promises to be an even bigger event with the announcement of an inaugural netball tournament that will run alongside the rugby.

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The three day annual event, being held this year from 3-5 December, is now in its 46th year and attracts the world’s best players vying for honours in the Men’s and Women’s Sevens World Series, as well as over three thousand players in 250 teams in the Invitation Tournament.  In a decision which reflects the growth and diversity of the event, joining them at the Sevens this year will be over 16 netball teams playing for the inaugural netball trophy.

Gary Chapman, President Group Services and dnata, Emirates Group said today “The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is not just about the rugby, although of course that is the centrepiece of this iconic event. It is a celebration of sport and plays an important role in attracting visitors from around the region and around the world, and the addition of the netball tournament will increase the appeal and reach of the event even further.

"We are pleased to announce the inclusion of the netball tournament which we believe is an important step in providing even more opportunities for involvement in this wonderful event.” Chapman added.

Invitation Tournament Manager Jill Conlon said “The Invitation Tournament is one of the most prestigious in the world and last year we had a record 223 teams competing across 15 divisions, and we anticipate that the netball tournament will also be extremely popular, both locally and internationally.”

Orders can be placed now on the tournament website for Corporate Hospitality and reserved seating for the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, with general admission tickets available from early August.