Dressing up for rugby

The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is not only one of the biggest sporting showpieces in the region, it is also regarded by many as the most enjoyable social event of the year.

Organisers have announced they will increase the size of the temporary venue to 30,000 after the event enjoyed sell-out crowds for the first time in its history last year.

The increase in stadium capacity means the Dubai Rugby Sevens has officially tripled in size since 2001.

"There is no doubt that this year will be bigger and better than ever before," says tournament director Donal Kilalea.

Part of the appeal of the event is the atmosphere and the socialising.

And people love to dress for the occasion. This year, as in years gone by, there will be official merchandise available for fans going to the Dubai Rugby Sevens.

Particularly popular are the ladies rugby shirts which are an exclusive range of apparel that has been available to women rugby followers for the past three years.