Rugby fans countdown to historic UAE-Israel friendly in Dubai

WAM

Preparations are underway to welcome the Israeli rugby team in Dubai on Wednesday, as they compete in their first historic friendly against the UAE at Dubai Sports City on March 19.

Speaking at a virtual news conference, Mohammed Sultan Al Zaabi, UAE Rugby Federation Board Member, said the friendly will add to the achievements of the Abraham Accords Peace Agreement signed last year between the two countries.

He also noted that sport is a way for getting peoples closer together.

Al Zaabi added that both teams will train together and compete in their first match, which will mark the start of their cooperation in exchanging programmes and expertise.

He pointed out that there are ongoing talks to organise a friendly match between Emirati and Israeli women’s teams in Tel Aviv.

The President of the Israeli Rugby Union, Ofer Fabian, expressed his happiness at helping establish the relations between Israel and the UAE, and thanked Emirati officials for supporting the initiative.

"The Israeli team is preparing to head to Dubai to face the UAE team in a friendly match on Friday, which will embody the values of peace, cooperation and positive partnership. We are looking forward to the visit of the Emirati team to Israel to start working together," he said.

More from Sports

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

  • Entertainment Extra

    1:00pm - 2:00pm

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Flying Taxis

    It sounds like an episode of The Jetsons, but the sight of flying taxis whizzing around our cities could be much closer than you think.

  • Tough penalties for deliberate tax evasion

    The UAE has said that tougher penalties will come into force from 1st August for not keeping proper corporate tax records.