Last-minute Fifa World Cup venues

The countdown to tonight’s Fifa World Cup final has begun. And while we openly weep in relief for a life that does not include the deafening roar of the vuvuzelas, the post-footie blues can be kept at bay for one more night as an action-packed game will see Spain take on the Dutch team in Soccer City, Johannesburg at 10.30pm.

Dubai’s world cup venues are gearing up for a last-minute onslaught, as thousands of revellers are sure to enjoy the festivities cheering their favourites in an atmosphere that is befitting a Fifa finale. If you haven’t managed to book your table yet at your favourite neighbourhood haunt, here are our top five venues:

Viva España!

Seville’s: If you are an ardent Spain supporter then look no further than Seville’s, Wafi for tonight’s big face off. Sink your teeth into delicious tapas, while enjoying the game on two giant projector screens and two smaller plasmas. While the tables have already sold out, no thanks to the FC Barcelona Fan Club UAE and its 250-odd members, you can still find a spot at the bar if you get there really early. Call: 04 324 4100

Dutch Delight

Emirates Golf Club: If boy wonder Wesley Sneijder and his teammates have you reaching for the vuvuzela, then look no further than this air-conditioned Football Central marquee that’s screening all the matches in high definition. While entry is free, the sweet deal allows you and nine other people to enjoy two meal platters and select beverages for just Dh675. Call: 04 380 2222

Neutral venues

The Palladium: This Dubai Media City venue promises to be one of the most entertaining venues for the grand finale and viewers are sure to delight in seeing David Villa strike a pose, and hopefully a goal, on the 16m x 9m screen. The entry is a mere Dh60, which includes one free drink. But get there early if you want to plop down on the beanbags. And if seating isn’t really that big a concern, then shake a leg at the goal striker simulator or the PlayStation zone. Call: 04 363 6897.

Sheikh Saeed Hall 3: Promising the biggest screen in the city, at a whopping size of 30m x 7m, this Dubai World Trade Centre hot spot is the closest you could ever get to almost being in South Africa for the final. The arena can accommodate up to 1,500 screaming fans; so even if you are a Netherlands groupie, there will certainly be a few others who could lend voice to your chants. Entry is Dh50 only and if other venues are unsure if they can accommodate you and your entourage of 20-odd friends, then DWTC is the safest last-minute bet to get a foot into the door. No contact details.

The Hush Lounge: If you are one of the lucky few who hasn't been hit by the recession, head over to the Madinat Jumeriah’s Hush Lounge. Its VIP seating is the perfect place to watch the final in luxury. Each private zone promises its own projector screen, comfortable couches to sink into and beanbags. Minimum spend is Dh100 per person, with an additional charge for shisha.But if your are cheap like some of us, then hang out in the public zone and watch the teams battle it out while enviously peeking a glance at the VIPs. Call: 04 366 6730

Grand Cinemas: While some of us aren’t exactly the sorts who like cheering from the aisles while munching on caramel popcorn for a World Cup finale, whatever works for you, we say. Grand Cinemas is offering just that at Dubai Festival City for Dh60 per person, with options of watching the match in Arabic and English. Call: 04 232 8523
 

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