The UAE is home to one of the world’s largest cricket-loving communities. With hundreds of thousands of fans from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and England, the sport is woven into the fabric of life across the Emirates.
International Cricket Venues
The UAE hosts international cricket at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai Sports City with a capacity of 25,000, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium — which has hosted more ODIs than any other ground in the world.
IPL UAE Connection
The IPL played its entire 2020 and 2021 seasons in the UAE due to COVID restrictions in India. The UAE maintains close ties with the world’s richest cricket league, and many IPL players are based here during the season.
Where to Watch Cricket Live
Fibber Magee’s is Dubai’s most famous Irish pub and a cricket institution. The Irish Village has a large outdoor screen with excellent atmosphere. Both venues are extraordinary during India-Pakistan games.
Amateur and Community Cricket
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah have dozens of cricket grounds where weekend leagues take place throughout the cooler months. Emirates Cricket Board runs structured leagues for clubs, corporates, and social teams. Most clubs welcome new players.
The India-Pakistan Match
Whenever India plays Pakistan in the UAE, the entire Emirates transforms. Tickets sell within minutes of release and the atmosphere is genuinely one of the great sporting occasions anywhere in the world.
