How did UAE become cricket’s go-to destination for global tournaments – Here’s How?

The United Arab Emirates has been a go-to destination for International Cricket tournaments and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has also earned this standing for hosting last minute ICC tournaments, holding up the credibility of some of the best tournaments in the world. 

From the Champions Trophy knockout stage matches to IPL Seasons, Dubai has bridged the gap, supporting the International Cricket Council in the time of need and due to diplomatic tensions. Similarly, the UAE picked up the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, relocating the entire event from Bangladesh amid tension in the government. 

ECB COO Subhan Ahmed confirmed their “unique selling point” is flexibility, citing a track record of rapidly delivering high-profile contests.

UAE has some of the best and world-class infrastructure with venues like Dubai International Stadiums, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Sharjah International Stadium and even the ICC Headquarters, located in Dubai from 2005. 

The country along with the inflow of South Indian migrants, HNRIs and work force has the fanbase for the sport. The South Indian diaspora in the UAE, around 60- 70% of the nation’s population, will be showing immense interest in attending the games, especially when South Asian teams play. 

The Women’s T20 World Cup had an attendance of nearly 16,000 in women’s group games and the Women’s T20 final attracted 21,457 spectators, a 68% increase on the prior edition.

Apart from this, such events now generate economic impact like the ILT20 from 2022 has pulled the attention for not just the game but also to tourism, boosting hotel, dining and other service-sector based activities. UAE’s neutral political stance globally also makes it a sought after choice for hosting such massive tournaments. 

In the past UAE has not just assumed the role of neutral board for tournaments needing change of venue due to political tensions but also hosting the prestigious IPL tournament during the pandemic and other high stake events elevates the country’s position and global reputation further. 

Their own growth in Cricket with the UAE National team has also been steady with less fanfare. The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), a member of the ICC since 1990, has qualified for several tournaments like the 1996 and 2015 ODI World Cups and T20 World Cups. 

Just like the country, the team also comprises a mix of Emirati-born players and expatriate talent primarily from South Asia, reflecting the country’s demographic makeup. Although the solid, ingrown talents or grass root involvement is limited, UAE has introduced grass root initiatives and partnerships with schools to spot young talents instead of relying on expatriate players for the squad. 

The nation also has a futuristic vision to have goals to achieve down the road, set in the Vision 2030 objectives. While the current challenges such as opted for reactive hosting and to focus on planned biennial events, promoting UAE cricket team into a broader path.