Dubai 7s: New Zealand Edge Australia in Thrilling Men’s Final

New Zealand Complete Historic Double at Dubai Rugby 7s 2025 as Emirates Dubai 7s Festival Thrills Fans

Dubai Rugby 7s 2025 came to a spectacular close on Sunday as New Zealand clinched both the men’s and women’s titles at the Emirates Dubai 7s, marking a dominant start to the HSBC SVNS Series 2025-26. The action-packed finals, electrifying crowds, and live performances from top DJs EZ and Fisher cemented this year’s event as one of the most memorable editions yet.

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New Zealand Edge Australia in Thrilling Men’s Final

New Zealand booked their spot in the men’s final after a nail-biting 24-21 victory over Fiji, last year’s Dubai champions. Their opponents, Australia, punched their ticket to the showdown after a convincing 14-0 win against France.

The men’s final lived up to expectations as both giants battled in a pulsating contest. Ultimately, it was Jayden Keelan’s decisive try that separated the sides, handing New Zealand a narrow 26-22 victory and the first half of their Dubai Rugby 7s 2025 double.

Dubai 7s: All Blacks Women Dominate to End Australia’s Dubai Reign

In the women’s competition, New Zealand cruised past Japan 31-5 in the semifinals, while Australia defeated Fiji 31-10 as they attempted to secure a sixth consecutive Dubai crown.

But Australia’s dominance was halted by a relentless New Zealand side determined to avenge last year’s disappointment. The All Blacks raced to a 17-0 first-half lead thanks to a blistering start, including two tries from Jorja Miller. Despite a late Australian surge, New Zealand sealed a 29-14 win, securing a well-deserved championship title.

Champions Honored in Grand Ceremony

The trophies were awarded to the victorious captains by Tim Clark, president of Emirates airline, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, president of the UAE Rugby Federation.
Adding prestige to the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, attended Saturday’s matches to witness the on-field drama firsthand.

Record Crowds and Festival Atmosphere Highlight Event

Mathew Tait, festival director, praised New Zealand’s exceptional performances and celebrated the event’s success:

“Year after year the Emirates Dubai 7s raises the bar, and 2025 was no exception. Huge crowds enjoyed world-class rugby, music, and entertainment, and having Fisher close the festival was the perfect finale.”

With 243 teams competing across multiple age groups, the invitational tournament reaffirmed its status as the largest rugby sevens gathering in the world.

Dubai Hurricanes Triumph in Gulf Men’s League

Local fans also had plenty to cheer for as the Dubai Hurricanes defeated Bahrain RFC in the Gulf Men’s League Cup Final, adding a regional highlight to an already unforgettable weekend at The Sevens Stadium.