If you’re based in the UAE and haven’t managed to score a live ticket to watch the FIFA final in Qatar, then we’ve got you covered in this year’s world cup.
There’re plenty of places where you can still enjoy the biggest game of the world’s biggest sporting event. So, while we can’t confirm which countries you’ll be cheering on, on December 18th – we can certainly guarantee that you could be doing it from one of the hottest spots in the Middle East.
Dubai, to be specific. As this city has become a favourite for footie fans in the UAE, who aren’t able to fly up to Qatar for the live games, or simply want a different viewing experience.
Whether you’re a Dubai resident, or simply swinging by to catch some of that football fever, we’ve rounded up the best places you can watch the final in Dubai in less than two weeks’ time, while soaking up all that gorgeous Arabian culture.
Fan Zones for FIFA in Dubai
There’s no questioning that Dubai has been at the heart of all the FIFA action outside of Qatar over the last couple of weeks.
The city has set up various screening venues, otherwise known as “Fan Zones” for football fans to enjoy the action firsthand.
Officially called BUDX FIFA Fan Festival, these fan zone areas can host thousands of fans in custom-designed venues with gigantic screens – that promise an immersive viewing experience, with innovative 4D Audio.
This Middle Eastern version of the Fan Festival doesn’t just stop at football screenings either. For the final, the festival will also feature epic live entertainment, activities, and DJ sets across venues. Tickets start at around AED 78.5 (the average) and go up to AED 13,387 for the more premium experiences (for groups).
Check out the main website here for tickets and more information. Or read on as we explore some of the hottest Fan Zones across Dubai.
Fan Zone by McGettigan’s
Hosting the biggest HD screen in Dubai, the transformation of the Amphitheatre at Dubai Media City into the ultimate Fan Zone (right up until the FIFA final) has the capacity for up to 5,000 excited fans.
The venue comprises an open lawn, with Family Zones, and picnic benches – along with live entertainment and music (in the run-up to the FIFA final and after). This is the perfect spot for families to enjoy the final, as the venue is child-friendly and will simultaneously host a Winter Zone (with Santa’s Grotto and roller skating). Guests can also enjoy a range of festive treats while watching the big game – including mulled wine for the grown-ups and hot chocolate for the kids.
The entry fee starts at around AED 50.
The Football Park in DIFC
You’re advised to pre-book to access an exclusive hospitality section at this venue, where you can indulge in the best culinary offering from Michelin Guide Dubai restaurants, as well as a range of many other fanciful treats.
The Football Park in DIFC is one of the most extravagant Fan Zones to enjoy the FIFA final. This pop-up is resident at the Podium Level of Gate Avenue; and offers uninterrupted screen views for the most passionate footie fans.
As well as being spoiled with great football and great food, you can also kick back at the featured private lounge at the Football Park with your own private butler!
Five Palm Jumeirah
From VIP booths (with private screens), champagne on-ice celebrations, lounge-style comfort seats, and 17 immersive large screens, Five Palm is one of the most happening spots to enjoy the FIFA final.
This Fan Zone will also host a range of fantastic footie fever features, ensuring that every fan will have time to remember, while supporting their favourite team.
As well as this, Five Palm is known and loved for the official FIVE Football Party – which is all about lively half-time shows, post-match parties, and the biggest DJ sets in town. There’s a range of packages available for the final, starting at AED 150 for general entry and going up to AED 4,000 for VIP Booths for 8 to 10 people.
Zero Gravity
A scenic Fan Zone for over 21s only, Zero Gravity offers stunning views of Dubai Marina and the Arabian Gulf for football fans.
Zero Gravity is one of Dubai’s most popular beach clubs, and promises to give you an unmatched viewing experience of the FIFA final. The venue has set up a massive screen to enjoy the big game; and will also be dropping in live music and brilliant DJ sets for fans to party till the early hours of the morning.
The venue offers free entry; but do try and get there early – as the final day is expected to be massively busy (and you’ll want to grab the best spot to watch the game from).
Expo City Dubai
Almost 12,500 fans are welcome to enjoy the final from two action-packed Fan Zones at Expo City Dubai.
Fan City at Jubilee Park accommodates up to 10,000 people, with enormous live screenings, a Budweiser tent, as well as a shisha lounge in the zone itself. The admission fee for this venue starts at around AED 30.
There’s also the chance to indulge in the VIP experience for the final at Al Wasl Plaza, with VIP hospitality packages and even VVIP box seats (which comfortably seat up to 2500 fans). As part of this experience, you’ll also get a one-day Expo City Dubai Attraction Pass – which is valid till the end of the year.
So, with the FIFA final fast looming – there’s still plenty of choice of where to enjoy the action in Dubai. Do check the most updated information and ticket availability on the relevant Fan Zone and venue websites before making any plans; and remember to enjoy the FIFA final safely, while respecting fans from other countries.
Enjoy the big game!
