Barmy Army is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with McGettigan’s, which sees them become the official Barmy Army Headquarters in the UAE. The partnership brings together two groups united by their passion for sport, camaraderie, and great hospitality, marking the first official Barmy Army partnership in the United Arab Emirates.
The official HQ of the Barmy Army in the UAE will be the Goose & Gander pub, located in Internet City at the Holiday Inn Express. One of McGettigan’s newest concepts and venues, it will serve as the go-to destination for England cricket fans across the region, offering live match screenings, exclusive fan events, and a home-from-home atmosphere for cricket enthusiasts.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Barmy Army,” said Dennis McGettigan, CEO of The McGettigan Group. “Sport is at the heart of what we do, and this collaboration allows us to create a space where fans can come together to celebrate their love of cricket in true McGettigan’s style — with great food, great drinks, and great company.”
The Barmy Army, renowned for its loyal and energetic fanbase, has long been a fixture of the international cricket scene. Establishing a UAE base at The Goose & Gander underscores the growing popularity of cricket in the region and provides a new home for the group’s many supporters living in or visiting Dubai.
“We are delighted to partner with McGettigan’s as our official home in the UAE,” said Adam Canning, Commercial & Operations Director at Barmy Army. “The passion and energy of the Barmy Army is 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.”
Fans can look forward to a series of special events, watch parties, and themed match days at Goose & Gander throughout the cricket calendar — celebrating both England’s fixtures and the sport’s growing presence in the UAE. Not only about England cricket, the Barmy Army HQ will also serve as a base for all England fans across all sports.
About McGettigan’s
Established in 1964 in Dublin by Jim McGettigan, McGettigan’s has grown into a global hospitality brand, seamlessly blending traditional Irish charm with a contemporary edge. Since 2010, it has been celebrated for its vibrant pubs, exceptional cuisine, and dynamic entertainment across cities such as Dubai, London, and Dublin. McGettigan’s has been behind some of the UAE’s most memorable and spectacular events, including Fanzone by McGettigan’s for the Qatar World Cup and Euro 2024, plus world-class concerts featuring music icons like Ed Sheeran, The Script, Liam Gallagher, Armin Van Buuren, Picture This, and The Coronas.
About Barmy Army
The Barmy Army is the world-renowned supporters’ club of England cricket fans, famous for bringing unrivalled passion, colour, and energy to stadiums around the globe. Founded during England’s 1994/95 Ashes tour, the Barmy Army has grown into an international community that unites cricket lovers through song, spirit, and unforgettable matchday experiences. Beyond the stands, the organisation also supports charitable initiatives, hosts fan events, and provides exclusive travel and ticketing services for its members. With a proud tradition of creating an atmosphere like no other, the Barmy Army continues to be the beating heart of English cricket support wherever the team plays.
For media inquiries, please contact:
- David Egerton
- Chief Digital Officer.
- E: david@mcgettigangroup.com
- M: +971 58 582 1609
