The most popular sport here in the UAE is definitely soccer. One thing that may surprise you about this is that a lot of fans get paid to go to the matches. Seriously.
This is how it all started. Back in the day (like, 10 or 15 years ago), the teams/clubs were primarily owned by families. And so the team was an extension of the family. And so just like when a family had you over to their home they would take care of you, when you go to the stadium, the family-owned team feels like they should take care of you. The going rate for attending a match is about 50 dirhams ($13). Admission is free. There are bonuses for cheering, chanting, singing, and clapping. Drinks and snacks may be included for the most vocal supporters as well.
[disclosure - I had no idea about this until I read about it in the paper today - but I'm definitely intrigued by it all - the full article is here ].
I have thought about checking out some of the local soccer matches just to see what it was like. Now though, I know I need to be sure I get a fair price for my services.
This is how it all started. Back in the day (like, 10 or 15 years ago), the teams/clubs were primarily owned by families. And so the team was an extension of the family. And so just like when a family had you over to their home they would take care of you, when you go to the stadium, the family-owned team feels like they should take care of you. The going rate for attending a match is about 50 dirhams ($13). Admission is free. There are bonuses for cheering, chanting, singing, and clapping. Drinks and snacks may be included for the most vocal supporters as well.
[disclosure - I had no idea about this until I read about it in the paper today - but I'm definitely intrigued by it all - the full article is here ].
I have thought about checking out some of the local soccer matches just to see what it was like. Now though, I know I need to be sure I get a fair price for my services.
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