The Dubai Hurricanes, one of the biggest rugby clubs in Dubai was established 25 years ago, but in the early days they started as a modest rugby team.

Fast forward to today, and the club has blossomed into a thriving multi-sport organisation with over 600 active members, competing in rugby, netball, and cricket. What began as a group of passionate rugby players coming together on weekends has transformed into one of the UAE’s largest amateur sports clubs. Their success is deeply rooted in their core values of fair play, community involvement, and creating a welcoming space for everyone.

The Hurricanes’ origin dates back to when a small group of rugby players wanted to form their own team. As Chairman Jim Dickinson recalls, the team came together with ambitions, borrowing their name from a Wellington Hurricanes jersey. The camaraderie on and off the pitch helped the team bond, and their enthusiasm soon drew others into the fold. Over time, the club expanded from a simple rugby team into a full-fledged sports organisation.

Today, they boast not just a competitive men’s rugby team but also thriving ladies’ and youth sections, offering something for players of all ages and abilities. From children as young as four in their under-four rugby program to adults playing in competitive leagues, the Dubai Hurricanes have created a pipeline for talent, with several players progressing to represent the UAE national teams in rugby and netball.

‘We offer sports for everyone’

The Dubai Hurricanes is a commitment to community. Their guiding principle, as Jim Dickinson shared, is to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for all.

“We offer sports for everyone, whether you’re looking to play socially or compete at a high level,” Dickinson explained.

The club’s ethos emphasises enjoyment and participation, with fair play and sportsmanship being key tenets across all activities.

One of the club’s proudest achievements has been the growth of their women’s rugby program. What started as a small initiative has grown into a competitive force. The Dubai Hurricanes women’s team has become a dominant player in the UAE, with several athletes, including team captain Alex Cook, representing the country on the international stage at prestigious events like the Dubai Sevens.

Dickinson, who has championed the development of women’s sports during his tenure, reflected on this achievement.

“Seeing the growth of women’s rugby, especially during my time here, has been incredible. We now have a clear pathway for young girls to progress from youth teams to senior competition, and it’s something we’re very proud of,” he said.

‘Never at the cost of fun and enjoyment’

No sports club is complete without a friendly rivalry, and for the Dubai Hurricanes, that distinction belongs to the Dubai Exiles. The two clubs have faced off in countless competitive matches over the years, particularly in rugby, creating a spirited atmosphere both on and off the pitch. The shared stadium adds fuel to this rivalry, making their encounters even more intense. This shared venue is what makes their match-ups the “Dubai Derby,” a highly anticipated showdown that fans and players alike look forward to.

In recent years, the Dubai Hurricanes have made great strides, reaching the finals in multiple competitions and expanding their presence across various sports. “The competitive side is important to us, but it’s never at the cost of fun and enjoyment,” Dickinson emphasized, underlining the club’s commitment to balancing high-level competition with a welcoming, community-driven spirit.

‘Excited about the next 25’

Looking forward, Dickinson and his team are eager to continue expanding the club’s programs, particularly in youth development. “We’re focused on the future,” Dickinson explained. “Our goal is to keep growing our youth sections, nurturing the next generation of players, and ensuring that the Dubai Hurricanes continue to be a place where people can come together and enjoy sport, no matter their background or skill level.”

The club’s commitment to integrating sports into the community remains at the forefront of their mission. With plans to expand their cricket and netball programs further, as well as continuing to build a strong rugby presence, the future looks bright for the Dubai Hurricanes.

As the Dubai Hurricanes gear up for their 25th season, Dickinson is filled with optimism. His hope is simple: for the club to continue growing, for the players to enjoy the sport, and for the community to feel the positive impact of the club’s presence.

“We want to look back on these 25 years and smile, but also be excited about the next 25,” Dickinson said. “This club has always been about more than just the sport—it’s about the friendships, the memories, and the joy of being part of something bigger. That’s what keeps us going.”