The Dubai Capitals aim to dominate the third season of the DP World ILT20 with a formidable combination of international firepower, the exuberance of youth, and tactical depth. The franchise has retained the core performers and bolstered the side with strategic new acquisitions, including exciting players like Ben Dunk, Scott Kuggeleijn, and Sharafuddin Ashraf.

Hemang Badani, head coach of Dubai Capitals, spoke about the upcoming season, saying, “The balance we’ve achieved in our squad this season is exceptional. Our core players do gives us the depth and versatility needed to tackle any challenge. Our preparation has been intense, and I’m confident in our ability to compete at the highest level “

The batting lineup showcases impressive ability with David Warner, Jake Fraser McGurk and Ben Dunk bringing their wealth of experience, complemented by Sam Billings’ big-hitting abilities. The middle order finds its backbone in the likes of Rovman Powell, Najibullah Zadran, Shai Hope, and the talented young Aryaman Varma, each bringing their own brand of dynamism.

Captain Sikandar Raza, who has been in fine form in international cricket, will look to lead by example with the bat and ball. The Capitals can call upon the experienced Dasun Shanaka alongside the young players Garuka Sanketh and Farhan Khan, who not only help provide balance but also flexibility.

The bowling department sees a potent mix of pace and spin, with Oliver Stone, Scott Kuggeleijn, Obed McCoy and Zahir Khan leading the pace battery, while Sharafuddin Ashraf offers a crucial spin option. The additions of Gulbadin Naib and Shahrukh Ahmed are also valuable additions, as both can play game-changing hands when needed.

Sikandar Raza, sharing his thoughts on the campaign ahead, said, “Playing with this talented group of players is a privilege, and I’m excited about what we can achieve together. The squad has a perfect blend of power-hitters, technically sound batsmen, and versatile bowlers. We’ve got multiple match-winners in our ranks, and I’m particularly impressed with how the team has bonded during our preparation phase.”

The Dubai Capitals kick off their season with challenging encounters against MI Emirates on January 11th and 13th, promising high-voltage cricket at Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They then face Sharjah Warriors on January 17th in what promises to be an exciting derby clash in Sharjah. A quick turnaround sees them taking on the Gulf Giants on January 18th in Sharjah, followed by a crucial match against the Desert Vipers on January 20th in Dubai.

Dubai Capitals Complete Squad:

New Signees: Adam Rossington, Aryaman Varma, Ben Dunk, Brandon McMullen, Garuka Sanketh, Farhan Khan, Gulbadin Naib, Joe Burns, Joe Weatherley, Najibullah Zadran, Obed McCoy, Scott Kuggeleijn, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Shai Hope, Shahrukh Ahmed, Zeeshan Naseer

Retentions: David Warner, Dasun Shanaka, Dushmantha Chameera, Haider Ali, Raja Akif, Jake Fraser McGurk, Rovman Powell, Sam Billings, Sikandar Raza, Zahir Khan, Oliver Stone

Petrol prices will remained unchanged heading into the new year, the UAE Fuel Price Committee announced on Tuesday. It means the cost of Super 98 remains at AED2.61 a litre, Special 95 stays at AED2.50 a litre, E-Plus 91 will continue through January at AED2.43, and Diesel stays at AED2.68 per litre.

Fuel prices are standardised in each of the seven emirates and the rates are revised every month. This change in price follows a summer and autumn trend with June,  July, September  and October all experiencing dips in the cost of UAE fuel. Since 2015, the UAE has revised petrol prices on a monthly basis in line with global rates.

UAE petrol prices reached an all-time high in July 2022, with Super 98 costing Dhs4.63 per litre. In 2023,petrol prices peaked in October and declined in November, December and January.

Dubai will implement gradual road closures on New Year’s Eve, including major routes such as Sheikh Zayed Road, starting from 4 PM on December 31, according to a senior official from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Residents and visitors planning to visit Downtown Dubai or other popular fireworks destinations are advised to begin their journeys early and rely on public transport, said Hussain Al Bana, Executive Director of Traffic at the RTA. He urged those not attending festivities in these areas to leave early and reminded guests with bookings near the celebrations to arrive before 4 PM.

The road closure schedule includes:

• Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard: From 4 PM
• Financial Centre Street (Lower Deck): From 4 PM
• Al Mustaqbal Street: From 4 PM
• Burj Khalifa Street: From 4 PM
• Al Asayel Road (Oud Metha to Burj Khalifa): From 4 PM
• Al Sukuk Street: From 8 PM
• Upper Level of Financial Road: From 8 PM
• Sheikh Zayed Road: Gradual closure from 11 PM

To accommodate workers and ensure safety, authorities have designated viewing zones featuring large screens and meal services in collaboration with the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs. Dedicated family-only viewing areas have also been arranged, with additional details forthcoming.

Enhanced Parking Facilities

The RTA has arranged approximately 20,000 additional parking spaces at Dubai Mall, Zabeel, and Emaar Boulevard to cater to visitors. Alternative parking options at Al Wasl and the GDRFA parking lots will also be available, with free shuttle buses provided for convenience.

Metro users can park at Centerpoint, Etisalat e&, and Jebel Ali stations for easier access to celebration venues. Note that the Dubai Water Canal Footbridge and elevators will close at 4 PM.

Citywide Celebrations

As Dubai rings in 2025, a total of 36 locations across the city will host spectacular celebrations. Highlights include fireworks displays at Burj Park, Global Village, Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Seef, Bluewaters, The Beach at JBR, and Hatta.

Authorities encourage the public to use public transport and plan their journeys in advance to enjoy a smooth and memorable New Year’s Eve.