UAE Rugby ranked 5th in World Rugby’s ‘Get Into Rugby’ youth development programme
A recently published ‘Get Into Rugby’ report from World Rugby and Asia Rugby, highlighting Associate Nations, has ranked the UAE as 5th in the world for rugby participation at youth level.
Earlier this year, UAE Rugby entered into a landmark agreement with the UAE Ministry of Education which saw World Rugby’s ‘Get Into Rugby’ (GIR) programme form part of the Physical Education curriculum in Emirati schools across the UAE.
In 2018, 107,001 boys and girls were involved in UAE Rugby’s Player Pathway Programme, 39% of which are girls. Currently UAE Rugby takes the sport into 208 schools across the UAE.
Our agreement with the Ministry of Education is a first for the region
Qais Al Dhalai, Secretary General UAE Rugby Federation said; “Our agreement with the Ministry of Education is a first for the region and undoubtedly cements UAE’s position as a leader in development and sustainability of the grassroots game across both the GCC, and Asia. This is evident through our being recognised and being ranked as 5th in the world, an achievement we are very proud of. Asia Rugby’s ‘Asia 1 Million Project’ has just reached its mark, and we are delighted to have been a major contributor to this achievement.”
“We remain extremely grateful to the Ministry, and for the ongoing support of our GIR – Player Pathway Programme partner; HSBC, as a result of their unwavering support rugby will continue to grow at grassroots.” added Al Dhalai.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/uae-rugby-national-school-boys-2018.jpg387600Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2018-12-19 23:42:582018-12-19 23:49:14UAE Rugby ranked 5th in World Rugby’s ‘Get Into Rugby’
Over the summer there have been some player movements from various clubs. Below is the list of who’s in and who’s out. Current UAE Expat Rugby Conference winners Dubai Tigers appear to have scooped the majority of the summer transfers with 6 newcomers, followed by the Dubai Eagles who will be looking to bolster their squad for their second season of UAE Rugby following their debut last season finishing 5th place in the UAE Premiership. The most notable figures are the Jebel Ali Dragons who have had 5 players leave over the summer. The UAERF summer transfer window is from 1st June – 31st July but has had a temporary extension until 15th August.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/uae-rugby-club-transfers-summer-2018.jpg400600Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2018-08-28 12:43:212018-08-28 13:01:56UAE Expat Rugby Player Transfers Over The Summer
So you’re an Expat ready to find a local rugby club in Dubai, or other Emirates of the UAE?
Here at Yalla Rugby we know first hand about finding a rugby club in Dubai. Becoming an expat and moving abroad to a foreign land can at first be a pretty daunting experience. You’re choosing to start a new life in a country unfamiliar to you, and whilst extremely rewarding, it can take a while to settle in and find your feet.
Once you are settled however, it’s then time for you to find a sense of normality and to start living your life the way you want it to be lived. Rugby for example, is a universally spoken language that people all across the globe can understand. Playing rugby in Dubai not only gives you some beneficial exercise, it’s also challenging, and it teaches you discipline and various other life skills in the process.
UAE Expat Rugby
If you’re new to expat life in Dubai, enjoying living in the fantastic climes of the United Arab Emirates, you’ll know right away that rugby clubs in UAE are spread out everywhere, as it’s an incredibly popular sport in this part of the world. If you yourself happen to be an avid rugby fan, looking to play expat rugby in Dubai, you’ll need to be on the lookout for a club to play for. Finding a rugby club in an unfamiliar part of the world however, can be tricky, which is why we’ve compiled this handy article on how to find the ideal rugby team and club to support, so you can get those rugby boots back on!
Finding An Expat Rugby Club In Dubai
The UAE Rugby Federation is the national governing body here in the United Arab Emirates. There are many different rugby clubs in Dubai, as well as numerous rugby teams and organisations with deep-rooted connections to the rugby world, so the clubs and teams are certainly out there, you just need to know how to find them. Check out our list of expat rugby clubs for a look at a list of local UAE rugby clubs. Looking at lists of this nature is ideal as we’ll give you a brief history of each club and the all important contact details for you to get in touch with to enquire about joining.
What Should I Expect When Playing Rugby In The UAE?
If you’ve moved to the UAE from a much cooler part of the world, one of the first things that you will immediately notice is just how incredibly hot it is in the United Arab Emirates. For that reason, before you commit to any Dubai rugby club or team, first you will need to know what to expect. For example, playing rugby matches, and training for rugby, outdoors in intense heat is not to be taken lightly. Playing rugby and training in extreme heat is very difficult and very taxing, so it’s vital that you stay well hydrated at all times. Not only will you have to contend with the physical challenges thrown at you on the rugby pitch, you also have the burning hot sun to deal with. Even evening games are sometimes very hot and sweaty. As well as that, there is the language barrier to contend with.
Ask Around For Advice
Another great tip for anybody looking to play UAE Expat rugby in Dubai, is to ask around for any recommendations/suggestions on clubs that may be looking for new players. Gyms are great places to begin your search as there is a big bodybuilding culture in the UAE, and if there’s one thing that rugby players are known for, it’s their huge size, strength, and their love of pumping iron in preparation of games.
So with that new knowledge in mind, we wish you the best of luck when choosing a rugby club in Dubai and the UAE!!!
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/finding-rugby-clubs-in-Dubai-uae-yallarugby.jpg5621000Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2018-08-01 16:19:102018-10-02 10:25:37Expat Rugby Clubs In Dubai - Best Advice For Finding One
UAE Rugby’s all-Emirati U18 Girls team, Al Maha, complete successful Sri Lanka training camp ahead of Asia Tournament
UAE Rugby’s all-Emirati U18 Girls team, Al Maha, recently participated in an intensive 7-day training camp, in Colombo and Kandy, Sri-Lanka, fine-tuning and honing their rugby skills and increasing their fitness levels. The purpose of the camp was to prepare the National (U18) UAE Rugby 7’s team for the upcoming U18 Girls Asia 7’s Tournament, which will be taking place in India, during October 2018.
UAE Rugby’s Head Coach, Apollo Perelini stated;
“The camp was a success, we’re seeing vast improvements in their abilities, and I’m exceptionally pleased with the commitment shown by this group of girls in developing their (rugby) skills and levels of fitness. Our players gained valuable experience and I am confident this (camp) has assisted preparations ahead of their participation in the Asia Rugby U18 Girls Tournament.”
On the final day of the camp, Al Maha were able to put the skills learnt to practice playing a number of friendly games with the Sri-Lankan U18 Girls 7’s squad.
Qais Al Dhalai, UAE Rugby Secretary General added;
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the Sri Lanka Rugby Union, where, through their co-operation and assistance this camp was possible.” “We also thank their entire team for welcoming our girls rugby so warmly, and for looking after them while in Sri Lanka.”
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/al-maha-u18-girls-rugby-sri-lanka.jpg335600Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2018-07-18 14:50:102018-07-18 14:57:12Al Maha - All-Emirati U18 Girls Team In Successful Sri Lanka Training Camp
UAE Rugby Federation’s Impact Beyond project gains more momentum with the delivery of 800 balls to the UAERF’s schools programme
The UAERF has further strengthened their partnership with the Ministry of Education (MoE) through the MoE including the Federation’s GIR highly successful Player Pathway Programme (PPP), supported by HSBC, into the school’s sports curriculum for Cycles 4 through 11.
Previously, the GIR programme was delivered to girls and boys in Cycles 9 through 11 with the 2017/2018 season seeing an impressive 17,000 girls and 13,000 boys introduced to the game in Emirati schools across the UAE.
“We are extremely pleased to have achieved this season’s performance goals as set by our Board and the Ministry” said Salman Hady, Vice Chairman of UAERF and Chairman of the Development Committee. “It is incredibly rewarding for us to see the number of Emirati girls and boys participating in and enjoying our sport, and we are delighted to be able to take the game into 5 additional Cycles.”
“We extend our sincere gratitude to both the Ministry and to HSBC whose support and commitment has made this possible.”
The Federation recently presented the MoE with 800 Rugby balls to be used in next season’s Player Pathway Programme. The handover of the balls was made at the MoE offices and was attended by Salman Hady; UAERF Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Development Committee, Hamdan Suliman; UAERF CEO, Sami Smara; UAE Rugby Development Manager, Ms. Aisha Al Siri; Director of Health and Physical Fitness (MoE), Mr. Ahmed Abdulrahman; Ministry of Education’s Schools Sports Department (MoE) and Mr. Peter Moore; Programme Manager for the Physical and Health Education.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/uaerf-impact-beyond-project-2018-fb-share.png511974Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2018-06-24 23:37:072018-06-24 23:40:18UAERF And MoE Partnership Goes From Strength To Strength
Transfer Window Changes Have Taken Place Within The UAERF – Heres What You Need To Know
The UAE Rugby Federation have amended the ‘Player Transfer Window’ based on recommendations proposed at their end of season meeting.
When Are The New Transfer Windows Open?
Players transfers are now only permitted during two periods of the year;
Window One: 1st June – 31st July Window Two: 20th December – 5th January
Transfers are subject to approval from both club chairmen and the UAERF and the player is only allowed to transfer during the above transfer window dates. This means there will be no free movements during the pre season period before we kick off again in September.
All player transfer requests need to be applied for via the ‘Player Transfer Application Form’ where approval for the transfer will be subject to the Transfer Conditions outlined in the form.
It’s worth noting here that this is only valid for senior rugby (18 years and over).
The player transfer application form is deemed valid only when the below items are fulfilled by all parties involved:
Both club chairpersons or their representatives approve and sign the form.
By signing, the player confirms payment in-full of any annual subscription fees owed to their current club.
The transfer is within the transfer windows and conforms to UAERF Registration & Competition Regulations.
UAERF approves and signs the play transfer form.
Download the official UAERF Local Player Transfer Application Form here:
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/uaerf-transfer-window-2018.jpg315600Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2018-06-14 21:20:272018-06-14 21:24:25Changes To The UAERF Transfer Window That You Should Be Aware Of
UAE Rugby and UAE Ministry of Education enters into landmark agreement which sees World Rugby’s ‘Get Into Rugby’ included in Emirati Schools Physical Education Curriculum
Landmark agreement will see World Rugby’s Get Into Rugby programme included in UAE Emirati Schools Physical Education Curriculum
Programme implemented at the start of the 2018 Emirati school year
Agreement will bolster Asia Rugby and World Rugby’s grassroots participation goals
UAE Rugby has entered into a landmark agreement with the UAE Ministry of Education which will see World Rugby’s Get Into Rugby (GIR) programme form part of the Physical Education curriculum in Emirati schools across the UAE. In a first for the region the agreement undoubtedly cements UAE’s position as a leader in development and sustainability of the grassroots game across both the GCC, and Asia.
This is a major milestone in UAERF’s Player Pathway Programme
“We are exceptionally pleased and encouraged the Ministry of Education has approved Rugby as an official sport by including it in their schools (physical) curriculum.” commented Qais Al Dhalai, UAE Rugby Secretary General.
“This is a major milestone in UAERF’s Player Pathway Programme. Through this approval, and the ongoing support of PPP partners; HSBC and Land Rover, rugby will continue to grow at grassroots, bolstering Asia Rugby’s ‘Impact Beyond’ strategy which is to grow participation numbers, across the Asian Unions, to one million by the Rugby World Cup in 2019.” he added.
At the ground level, leading the charge, is Sami Smara, UAE Rugby Federation’s Development Manager, who said; “The commitment of our team, and the Ministry can already be seen, where in early January the Ministry published the first ‘Rugby Workbook’, and where over 400 teachers were trained in delivering the programme in one day alone.” “More of these type of super-days will be held until we have all physical education teachers (at Emirati school) qualified to deliver the GiR programme, and we expect the numbers of Emirati-boys and girls to reach over two hundred thousand (across the UAE) in the next two years.” added Smara.
Hailing the efforts of the Federation in their commitment of growing the game and making it accessible to all, Rugby World Rugby Chairman, Bill Beaumont stated: “I would like to congratulate UAE Rugby and the UAE Ministry of Education on this landmark agreement that will significantly boost the ongoing development of the game in the UAE. Get Into Rugby is a wonderful introductory vehicle for girls and boys to begin their rugby journey and learn and live the values of the sport. We applaud the UAE Federation’s continued drive and approach to laying solid foundations to realise a stronger, sustainable game for the future of the sport.”
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/uae-local-emirati-schools-rugby.jpg266400Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2018-01-18 16:09:292018-09-17 08:53:12Rugby Now Included In Emirati Schools Physical Education Curriculum
“Our board has selected a side of strong, experienced Emirati rugby players, with only one new player making his 7’s debut.” said UAE Rugby Federation Board Member Mohamed Shaker. “We are looking forward to very competitive games, as our Pool consists of very capable teams which we will not underestimate. We are confident our players will put forward a very strong challenge and produce the winning results.”
UAE kick-off their campaign, on Friday, against Iraq at 10:30, followed by Jordan at 14:00, finish day one’s pool games with Libya at 18:30 (times local).
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/arab-rugby-sevens-jordan-uae-emirati-7s.jpg278600Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-10-04 15:08:052018-09-17 08:59:33UAE Rugby To Be Represented By All-Emirati Side At Arab 7’s
UAE Rugby applauds successful Asia Rugby Conference
[ Advertise Your Business Here ]
UAE Rugby recently hosted the annual Asia Rugby Conference, for 2017, which focused on key topics of Leading Rugby and Growing the Game within the Asian Unions.
“UAE Rugby was extremely honoured to be the host for the 2017 Asia Rugby Conference, and we were exceptionally pleased to have the full, and unwavering support of World Rugby” commented Secretary General UAE Rugby and Honorary Secretary General Asia Rugby, Qais Al Dhalai. “Asia Rugby is at an exciting stage in its growth and development, and the opportunities that presented themselves to our Unions, through the 4-day conference, provide for very exciting years to come, in and for our sport.”
Asia Rugby is at an exciting stage in its growth and development
For the first 2-days, 17 delegates from 10 countries participated in the Conference’s ‘Leading Rugby’ focus, discussing and analysing aspects of governance, administration, capitalising on commercial opportunities and effective communication tools. The conference then moved into the 2-day Growing the Game focus, where a historic 44 representatives from 24 countries were actively involved in workshops and presentations including; growing girls and women’s participation, safeguarding and player welfare, and World Rugby’s ‘IMPACT Beyond RWC 2019’.
“Asia Rugby has embarked on an ambitious plan to increase its rugby population by an additional 1 million new participants, through the Asia 1 Million project.” said Al Dhalai.
“On behalf of UAE Rugby, and Asia Rugby, I extend our sincere gratitude to all Unions who attended, and to the presenters for sharing their expertise and knowledge on best practices that each Union can adapt and incorporate into their everyday management. I am delighted that all delegates were energized from this conference, and we look forward to working with each Union in our bid to make Rugby in Asia the leading sport.” Al Dhalai said in closing.
The U17 UAE Rugby Sevens squad have headed out to Taiwan to play in a Youth Olympic Games Qualifier which takes place this weekend (9th-10th September) in the Tainan Municipal Stadium. They face against hosts, Chinese Taipei, followed by Hong Kong, India and finally Malaysia in the pool competition. Hopefully then qualifying for either the Cup or Plate finals which will be held on Sunday.
U17 UAE Rugby Squad Announced
Congratulations to the squad members below, who were announced on Wednesday by Head Coach Apollo Perelini of the UAE Rugby Federation.
Abdallah Rabee Marzouq – Sharjah
Ali Salem Ali Barmen – Al Fujairah
Mayed Mohamed Khamis – Al Fujairah
Mohamed Hasan Lateef Mohamed – Sharjah
Mubarak Saif Mubarak – Al Ain
Nawaf Abdulla Suwaid – Al Ain
Nayef Abdulla Suwaid – Al Ain
Obaid Mohamed Abdalla Alblooshi – Al Fujairah
Rashed Saqer Ibrahim Almarzooqi – Ajman
Salem Saeed Adbulla – Al Ain
Saif Juma Rashed – Al Ain
Saoud Salem Obaid – Al Ain
U17 UAE Rugby Schedule
Saturday 9th September 2017
UAE vs Chinese Taipei UAE vs Hong Kong UAE vs India
Sunday 10th September 2017
UAE vs Malaysia Semi Final Final
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/uae-rugby-u17-asia-chinese-taipei-2017.jpg481800Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-09-07 13:13:132018-09-17 09:02:37UAE Squad Head For Asia Rugby U17 Sevens 2017
As the new UAE Rugby Season 2017/18 draws closer, we take a look at some of the numbers from last season with an infographic based on UAE rugby players registered with each club, aged between 5 and 60.
Our aim of the rugby infograph is to hopefully provide you with some quick insights into the various rugby teams in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras al-Khaimah.
Please note all figures provided to Yalla Rugby by the UAERF for the 2016/17 UAE rugby season.
As it’s the 1st of August 2017, today marks Yalla Rugby’s 2nd birthday!
It all seems so long ago when we first launched our rugby website, but it’s actually only been 2 years today. Back in 2015, the Gulf rugby coverage was pretty minimal and there was no central place online that brought the rugby fans all of the UAE Rugby Clubs information.
[ Advertise Your Business Here ]
Now with over 20,000 people using the website from all corners of the planet, we’re gearing up for another action-packed rugby season 2017/18.
Still very much in our infancy, we’ve had a cracking 2 years of covering all of the Emirates rugby and we’re really looking forward to growing alongside the local rugby here in the Middle East.
Also, a huge thanks goes out to our fantastic local rugby clubs and their team players, who have kept us extremely busy over the past two seasons with our UAE rugby gallery.
Finally, and most importantly, we’d like to say a huge thank you to you, the readers and fans of Yalla Rugby. Without your continued loyalty and support, there would be no Yalla Rugby.
A Small Free Gift For You!
So… as a small thank you, we’re giving you onefree, un-licensed image from our Match Day Gallery.
All you have to do is email us with a snapshot of the image that you would like – to info[at]yallarugby.com
Hurry though, this offer is only valid for today (1st August 2017).
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/two-years-old-today-yalla-rugby.gif6301200Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-08-01 00:00:392017-08-01 01:39:55Woohoo... We're Two Today!!
UAE Rugby Federation’s U18 Emirati girls continue their firsts by participating in the third edition of the Paris World Games, commencing Saturday July 8th (2017) in Paris, France.
For the first time, and with a focus on Paris’s 2024 Olympic hosting bid, the games will expand from solely hosting football to include badminton, basketball, handball, volleyball and sevens rugby. It is anticipated that over 700 teams across the five sports will compete over the week-long games.
In preparation of Rugby’s two-day tournament, UAE Rugby’s U18 Emirati girls team will participate in a 4-day training camp at France Rugby’s centre national du rugby, Marcoussis, France.
“This is an incredible milestone for UAE Rugby and for Emirati women in sport.”
UAE Rugby Board Member, Fawzia Faridoon said; “This is an incredible milestone for UAE Rugby and for Emirati women in sport.” “UAE Rugby’s coaching and development staff, our RDO Manager Sami Smara, Girls RDO Amira Ben Fikh Ali and Head Coach Apollo Perelini, have shown absolute commitment in growing the confidence and skills of our burgeoning Under 18 Emirati girls team, and we are thrilled to be participating in the 2017 Paris World Games.”
“UAE Rugby Federation recently entered into a long-term agreement with France Rugby to develop all levels of our player, and we are delighted to be able to use the facilities at their world-renowned National Centre ahead of the games.” added Faridoon.
UAE Rugby Federation Chairman, Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, was on hand at the team’s final Dubai training to wish them well in their campaign.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/uaerf-u18-girls-rugby-paris-world-games-2017.jpg355800Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-07-03 17:06:242018-09-17 09:04:04UAE Rugby Federation's U18 Emirati Girls To Compete In Paris World Games
Perelini’s eyes firmly fixed on next weeks Asia Rugby Division One championship in Malaysia.
Yalla Rugby were lucky enough to be invited to Apollo Perelini’s last training camp before the upcoming Asia Rugby Division One Championship in Ipoh, Malaysia.
The UAE Rugby National squad, are up against Malaysia, Philippines and Sri Lanka with the prospect of qualifying for the 2019 World Cup in Japan up for grabs for the table topping team. We ask Perelini how his squad preparations have been coming on;
“It’s taken a little longer to get ready for the championship because of the players club commitments which narrowed down my contact with them, but the last two weeks and two warm up matches against tough Premiership and Conference Barbarian sides have brought the team closer and therefore team structures have been easier to put in place.”
“I’m happy, the team is coming together nicely with the Championship starting next week.” said Perelini.
Over the past 3 years, the standard of playing rugby in the United Arab Emirates has improved a tremendous amount, with increased interest in the sport from all ages and abilities.
“ The quality of players and coaching has improved the competition within domestic rugby.”
Perelini said: “The quality of players and coaching has improved the competition within domestic rugby, which makes things easier for me when choosing players to represent the UAE, however we still have a long way to go in some areas.”
With the team setting out, not only to just compete, but actually win next weeks Asia Rugby Division One championship, local UAE rugby clubs could really feel the benefit from a successful campaign in Malaysia.
Perelini believes that the quality of rugby will only increase if they (UAE Rugby) make the top tier of Asia Rugby. He said: “The challenge I guess, will be how we keep these full-time, employed players committed and whether they can improve their skills if they’re not professionals, unlike some countries which are now fully professional.”
We’d like to wish Apollo and the UAE National rugby team the very best of luck and will keep you all up to date with their progress in the competition, which starts on the 14th May against Malaysia, then on the 17th they face Sri Lanka followed by their final game on the 20th against the Philippines.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/united-arab-emirates-rugby-team-2017.jpg360800Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-05-07 15:37:512018-09-17 09:05:32Asia Rugby Division One Championship - Japan 2019 One Step Closer For UAE
UAERF Sign MoU With The French Rugby Federation (FFR)
The UAERF have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the French Rugby Federation (FFR) where they hope to establish and implement a strategic partnership aimed at developing 7’s and XV’s players, coaches and match officials.
“Entering into this partnership, at this stage of UAE Rugby’s rapid growth, is very exciting.” said Qais Al Dhalai Secretary General UAERF.
“Together, we (UAERF and FFR) have identified various training camps and tournaments for the benefit of our 7’s and XV’s players, as well as various training and officiating opportunities for UAERF’s match officials throughout the term of this partnership. As the recognised sports-hub in the Middle East we are thrilled to be in a position to utilise many of the UAE’s diverse high-class training facilities for these activities, and similarly the well-regarded FFR National Center of Rugby in Marcoussis (France)”. “We are looking forward to finalising these opportunities and to working closely with Bernard and his team.” added Al Dhalai.
“That is why we want to work closely with the United Arab Emirates Rugby Federation”
“The overall future of our sport will come through its development into new territories. This is crucial if we want to expand its popularity and the number of players to last. This international development has to come through the Middle East.” Bernard Laporte, President Fédération Française de Rugby said. “That is why we want to work closely with the United Arab Emirates Rugby Federation; to actively participate in rugby development in this area of the world by giving UAERF players and officials the possibility to benefit from our human and material means to work and improve their performance.”
Officiating today’s MoU signing was Qais Al Dhalai, Secretary General UAERF and Bernard Laporte, President of Fédération Française de Rugby.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/UAERF-sign-MoU-with-FFR.jpg518800Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-05-06 20:17:162018-09-17 09:09:25UAERF sign Memorandum of Understanding with the French Rugby Federation
Inaugural UAE Rugby Grand Finals Day to be played On Friday April 7th
UAE Rugby will host their inaugural Grand Finals Day on Friday, April 7th, at Dubai Sports City’s Rugby Park in Dubai.
In a first for the Federation, the UAERF Grand Finals are the culmination of UAE Rugby’s Community, Conference and Premiership league fixtures played over the 2016/2017 rugby season.
“We are extremely pleased to bring the inaugural UAE Rugby Grand Finals Day to our rugby-loving community. Each year we are thrilled with the level of rugby we witness across our domestic league, and the finals have always drawn enthusiastic supporters. We are confident that bringing all three leagues together into one day will enhance the excitement and raise the profile of the league’s top-ranked teams.” said Qais Al Dhalai, UAE Rugby Secretary General.
Finals games kick off at 1pm with Abu Dhabi Harlequins competing against Jebel Ali Dragons in the third-tier Community League, followed at 3pm with two deciding games from the second-tier Conference League; Bottom 5 between Heartbeat Tigers and Dubai Sharks and Top 6 between Al Ain Amblers and Abu Dhabi Harlequins. At 5pm, the Federation’s elite Premiership League will play-out between Abu Dhabi Harlequins and Jebel Ali Dragons.
Alongside this rugby-fest will be mouth-watering food and beverage options as well as fantastic giveaways and prizes. Entry to join in the Finals Day fun, and watch quality domestic rugby, is free.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/uae-rugby-grand-finals-2016-17.jpg400600Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-04-05 14:36:112018-09-17 09:10:07Inaugural UAE Rugby Grand Finals Day to be played This Friday
UAE Rugby celebrate UAE National Sports Day on Thursday
UAE Rugby is well prepared to celebrate UAE National Sports Day on Thursday, February 16th, hosting 4 touch-rugby festivals across the Emirates.
Over 570 boys and girls are expected to compete in the Emirate-wide festival. At the Sevens Stadium, Dubai, 160 youths will take up the game, while at the Sheikha Hind Hall, 170 14 to 18 year old girls from across 8 schools will compete in an inter-schools Touch Rugby festival.
In the Northern Emirates 140 boys will participate at the Al Dhaid Sports Club, and the Al Ain Rugby Club, in Al Ain, will see 100 Under-14 girls play the game.
“The importance and goals of the National Sports Day is to promote and instil respect for all nationalities that live in the UAE”
Qais Al Dhalai, UAE Rugby Secretary General commented; “This is an outstanding vision and directive of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and one that UAE Rugby is whole-heartedly committed to.”
“The importance and goals of the National Sports Day is to promote and instil respect for all nationalities that live in the UAE, and, through sports encourage all individuals to take the values of team cohesiveness and self-pride into their daily lives. We aim, through the values of our game, to assist in achieving this goal” added Al Dhalai.
https://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/uae-national-sports-day-2017.jpg534800Yalla Rugbyhttps://www.yallarugby.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/yalla-rugby-dubai-uae-2019.pngYalla Rugby2017-02-15 11:11:162018-09-17 09:10:50UAE National Sports Day - UAERF To Host 4 Touch-Rugby Festivals
Dubai Airports’ three-year long sponsorship of UAE Rugby Federation’s Shaheen all-Emirati Rugby programme is paying huge dividends for the team and the sport by boosting participation levels tenfold, improving fitness levels and fuelling the team’s drive to support the UAE Olympic 7’s dream.
“Dubai Airports’ support of UAE Rugby’s Shaheen programme changed the lives of those who have been involved”
The Shaheen Rugby Development programme started with the support of Dubai Airports in 2014 and is responsible for a key Emirati element of the UAE Rugby Development and Performance Pathway. The programme, which commenced with 20 Emirati players who had no real rugby background, now boasts over 250 players aged 16 or over. Shaheen is the Emirati development squad for the UAE national rugby teams.
“Dubai Airports’ support of UAE Rugby’s Shaheen programme changed the lives of those who have been involved, and have created role models for others to follow,” said Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum – Chairman UAE Rugby.
“It has been a huge success story and not only in terms of the growing number of participants,” said Qais Al Dhalai, Secretary General UAE Rugby Federation. “The enthusiasm of the group, love of the game, improving skills and fitness levels are also important success factors. Dubai Airports’ sponsorship and influence not only touches the players, but their family and friends. We estimate since the start of the programme over 420 different individual players which have been involved in the Shaheen programme and over 2,000 Emirati family and friends have also been exposed to the sport as a result.”
Al Dhalai added that players have benefited from weight loss and a more active lifestyle thanks to Shaheen’s structured programme with resources.
UAE Rugby have today released the penalty statistics for Yellow and Red cards issued to date, this 2016 / 2017 season.
There have been 116 Yellow cards and 16 Red cards issued, compared to the 2015/2016 totals of 186 and 19 (respectively).
Cards have been issued across all competitions in the Emirates 2016/2017 fixtures, and with 96 games remaining before the close of the season, the UAERF is concerned with the escalation.
Qais Al Dhalai, UAE Rugby’s Secretary General commented:
“In the very first weekend of games in the UAERF / Asia Rugby West Leagues we saw 22 yellow and 6 red cards issued and this was only in the Premiership and Conference”.
“Our board has taken the decision to be transparent and share these very concerning statistics to help Clubs; their Executive Committee, coach, and their players take ownership and address this unacceptable upward trend.” added Al Dhalai.
New Tougher Approach Now In Effect
World Rugby’s new tackle law came into effect on Tuesday January 3rd, 2017, following which there has been a heightened interest in what effect the initiative would have on the pitch, and the UAERF is committed to being proactive in enforcing this directive.
The UAERF, alongside both the UAE Rugby Referees (UAERR) and the Judicial Officers are working closer together to identify and recommend what rugby clubs can do to effectively implement change and improve. In a proactive step, the UAERR have issued a ‘Rugby Referee Game Norms’ guideline to UAE’s Clubs, and the UAERF will continue to communicate through their social media and other communication forums.
While there was a sharp increase in the number of cards issued during games played over the most recent weekend (January 13th) as referees look to heighten their vigilance on the high tackle, there is a general increase in discipline and infringement issues which the UAERF are extremely committed to working toward a dramatic reduction.
