Emirates took to the skies this afternoon to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the UAE, with a spectacular flypast over the Emirates Dubai 7s stadium.

Thousands of rugby fans were treated with a low-level flypast above The Sevens Stadium with the Emirates A380, emblazoned with the unique ‘United Arab Emirates 50’ design on both sides of the aircraft marking the Golden anniversary of the UAE.

Taking off from Dubai International Airport, the Emirates A380 made its approach above the stadium to wow the crowds for the flypast at 1540hrs, cruising by at a gentle speed and an altitude of just 500 feet. Commanding the Emirates A380 was UAE National Captain Mubarak Al Mheiri, supported by Captain Christopher Gauci and First Officer Tom Mayall.

The aircraft conducting the aerial flypast was adorned with the name of the ‘UAE’ and ‘50’, using dynamic lines and curves that illustrate the vibrant character of the nation, celebrating its achievements over the last five decades. The ‘Year of the Fiftieth’ logo is also represented in the overall livery design.

Today’s flypast underscores the airline’s commitment to the long-standing Emirates Dubai 7s. Taking place over this weekend, the Emirates Dubai 7s is welcoming over 80,000 fans and spectators to watch 22 of the world’s best teams compete, along with an array of other activities and matches happening in the periphery around rugby, cricket and netball, as well as the Emirates Dubai 7s Youth Sports Festival.

Emirates’ connection to the game of rugby goes back to 1987, when the airline became the Emirates Dubai 7s Official Sponsor. Since then, Emirates has helped elevate the profile of the sport of rugby in the UAE and around the world, working with partners like World Rugby and others to promote the sport and engage with rugby fans and players.