Goose & Gander Dubai becomes first official home of England’s Barmy Army in UAE
Fans to enjoy live screenings, themed events, and exclusive matchday offers
DUBAI – Goose & Gander, the London-style pub at Holiday Inn Express, Dubai Internet City, has been officially named the home of the Barmy Army in the United Arab Emirates.
This marks the first-ever partnership of its kind in the region, offering England Cricket fans a dedicated venue to gather, celebrate, and relive their team’s greatest moments.
The exclusive partnership makes Goose & Gander the only official Barmy Army hub in the UAE, inviting fans and members to come together for live match screenings, special food and beverage promotions, and themed events celebrating English cricket culture.
A new home for fans
The announcement cements Goose & Gander’s reputation as a key destination for sports enthusiasts in Dubai. The venue’s traditional British charm, lively atmosphere, and strong focus on sports entertainment made it a natural fit for the Barmy Army partnership.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Barmy Army to Goose & Gander and proud to be their official home in the UAE,” said Dany Cherfane, Hotel Manager at Holiday Inn Express Dubai Internet City. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to building vibrant and engaging community spaces. Goose & Gander will be the place to enjoy every match in great company and a true pub atmosphere.”
Partnership with McGettigan’s
The collaboration was made possible through McGettigan’s, a leading name in Irish hospitality with a global network of pubs known for combining great food, sport, and live entertainment. The brand’s involvement brings further expertise in creating dynamic fan experiences.
“We are delighted to partner with Goose & Gander as our official home in the UAE,” said Adam Canning, Commercial & Operations Director at the Barmy Army. “The passion and energy of the Barmy Army are all about bringing fans together, and this venue provides the perfect setting for our members to unite, watch England play, and celebrate the game we love.”
“With the support of McGettigan’s, we’re excited to create unforgettable matchday experiences for cricket fans in Dubai and beyond,” he added.
Creating a matchday experience
Dennis McGettigan, CEO of McGettigan Group, highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to creating memorable sporting experiences across the UAE. “At McGettigan’s, we’ve always been passionate about delivering moments that bring people together over great sport, food, and atmosphere,” he said. “We’re proud to support Goose & Gander in becoming the official home of the Barmy Army in the UAE – the first partnership of its kind in the region. England Cricket fans now have a true hub to celebrate every wicket, boundary, and historic victory.”
From thrilling Test matches to fast-paced limited-overs games, England Cricket fans in Dubai now have a dedicated space to cheer, connect, and celebrate together in a true British pub environment.
Goose & Gander
Goose & Gander, developed in collaboration with McGettigan’s, is a London-style pub located at Holiday Inn Express, Dubai Internet City. It serves classic pub dishes, a wide selection of beverages, and full live sports coverage in a lively, welcoming setting.
Barmy Army
Founded during England’s 1994/95 Ashes tour, the Barmy Army is the world-renowned supporters’ club for England cricket fans, celebrated for its passionate, colourful presence in stadiums around the world. Beyond the stands, it supports charitable causes, organises fan events, and provides exclusive travel and ticketing services for members.
McGettigan’s
Established in 1964 in Dublin, McGettigan’s has evolved into a global hospitality name, blending traditional Irish charm with modern flair. Since expanding to Dubai in 2010, it has hosted major events such as Fanzone by McGettigan’s during the Qatar World Cup and Euro 2024, as well as concerts featuring international artists including Ed Sheeran, Liam Gallagher, and The Script.