Etihad Airways continues to build ties between grass roots sport in the UAE and the airline’s sporting partners from around the world when it hosted its first Junior Rugby Festival in Abu Dhabi. The festival took place between 5 and 15 November and consisted of two key events - the Etihad Harlequins Rugby Schools and the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Harlequins Junior Rugby Tournament. Through our sponsorship of London-based Harlequins RFC Etihad we secured the participation of some of the biggest names in world rugby at the festival including Dean Richards, Harlequins’ director of rugby, England international David Strettle and Harlequins captain Will Skinner. Over four hundred local and international children participated in the school’s programme over four days and had some of the worlds most experienced coaches and players taking them through their steps. Skinner and Strettle also had time to relax and enjoy some of Abu Dhabi’s culture and hospitality during their stay.