I used to think I knew what Football was. I’ve spent many Saturdays watching College Game Day, wearing my Florida State jersey, laughing at Lee Corso while nursing an ice cold Miller Lite. Sundays used to be a bar hopping extravaganza. Adorned in my best Chicago Bears t-shirt (DA BEARS!) I would get the best seat in front of the biggest TV’s showing the best games. My weekends were full of friends cheering loudly, pitchers of beer flowing, cheeseburgers, and chicken wings. Then I moved to the Middle East…
I know NOTHING about Football. In fact, I’ve apparently been in love with the wrong football all these years. The excitement of American Football doesn’t really cross the boundaries of America. And if we Americans thought we could party hard…No. We are tame compared to the night’s of Football game watching over here. Football (a.k.a Soccer) in the U.A.E. is like the American Super Bowl every game. Before the World Cup, pubs and restaurants with television coverage of the soccer games would be packed with fans drinking, cheering, and hoping to see that one goal that would clinch their teams win. It’s 80 minutes of suspense, pins and needles, and 1 minute of pure elation. Drinks for everyone!
As the 2014 FIFA World Cup approached there were advertisements of the best FIFA Tents available to view all the games. I honestly underestimated what this meant. I envisioned a makeshift party tent (like the ones erected for outdoor weddings), some tables, perhaps some waiters serving food and stuff like that. Nothing too fancy, just a place to watch the game. WRONG!
We’re talking swanky tents, lavish upholstery, chandeliers, posh couches and armchairs with dainty tables, and huge projector screens. It’s like being in a movie theater made for a queen. There are drink specials, food specials, and even cover charges. It’s outrageous. And these viewing tents get so busy you have to make a reservation.
Here are a list of the places that I, or some of my friends have been to watch World Cup games. If you’re looking for somewhere to experience the adrenaline rush of hundreds of people cheering together for just one or two goals in 90 minutes, these are the places I’d recommend.
1. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr – Abu Dhabi
Up to 600 people can be held in this opulent tent. For the 100 dirham entry fee, you can sit and watch all the games you want and receive 3 complimentary drinks. Ladies get in free, but have to pay for drinks. For 270 dirhams you can get entry and all the drinks you want, until the end of the last game. That’s like 3:30 am!
2. Intercontinental – Abu Dhabi
About 60 dirhams will get you entry into the Saharaa Tent. You can pay for drinks as you go and watch boys chase a ball around a field like a king.
3. Du Arena – Yas Island
Although alcohol free it has food, and large tables can be booked for you and all your friends to watch the games.
4. Amber Bar @ Novotel Al Bustan
Yummy food, good beer, decent atmosphere, and great specials.
5. Stars N Bars – Yas Island
Super fun! There’s no cover charge, but book your tables early because they fill up FAST! The food is good, the drinks are better. Gather together and cheer along with people around the world!
Fairmont FIFA Tent
Intercontinental FIFA Tent
Audra Raye Abroad 