The 2013 Dubai Sevens attracted more than 100,000 spectators and the biggest crowds since 2008, organisers have revealed.
The rugby festival, which saw Fiji emerge triumphant in the IRB World Series main event, has become a seminal event of the UAE’s sporting calendar.
And it appears as popular as ever with the best turnout for five years flocking to 7he Sevens at the weekend. A crowd of 41,000 on the third and final day set a new record – as was the 16,000 who came free of charge on day one.
And with a further 44,000 there on the Friday, it meant the impressive total figure topped the 100,000 mark.
“It was a fantastic weekend, and we are thrilled at the figures,” said Donal Kilalea, Commercial and Marketing Director, Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens.
“It is the second highest threeday attendance in history, and we are delighted.
– VIDEO: Sport360's round-up of the best Dubai Sevens had to offer
“Yet again, it proves we are one of the biggest and best events in the region, and the feedback from people who came this year has been exceptional, telling us consistently that the event gets better year on year.
“We’re very proud of that, but we take nothing for granted – people are very discerning with how they spend their money these days, and we are competing with other events, so we have to make sure that next year we put on an even better event.”
Another big bonus for the organisers were the television viewing figures. The final was carried live in 20 countries, and had a reach of 230 million homes in 140 countries.
A record-breaking 260 hours of live broadcast was beamed around the world over the weekend, with many countries also taking highlights package in the coming weeks.
The event certainly proved popular with the players and management alike. New Zealand coach Sir Gordon Tietjens said: “Dubai’s a great event for the thousands of people who turn up every year and create a fantastic atmosphere. It’s a lovely environment and it’s generally a lovely place to visit.
“Dubai as a Sevens event is superbly well run, it generates a lot of interest, and what makes it special is that you’ve the women’s tournament running alongside ours, and then all invitation matches going on around and about, too.”
* For breaking news, follow us on @Sport_360 or find us on Facebook.
