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There is a definite buzz surrounding the Dubai Tennis Stadium as players, staff and spectators prepare for the opening day of the matches at the Dubai Tennis Championships 2008. Court service staff dashed around in a desperate last-ditch attempt to make sure absolutely everything was in place as the first players warmed up on the pitches around them.
The courts were given a last "once over" as umbrellas shot up, towels were dug from giant bins on court and others checked water levels.
Restaurant staff arranged tables and chairs while officials held last-minute discussions about rules, timing and protocol.
Excited
Excited ball girls and boys gathered in shady spots and tested each other on final pointers. And naturally they talked about who they most wanted to see play in a match over the course of the next two weeks.
People of all ages pondered hard over the number of tennis balls packed into a new Volkswagen Toureg in the hope of taking the sleek vehicle home after the championships are over. Anyone guessing the exact number of balls in the car will win it.
With food, drinks, entertainment and some of the best tennis stars ever to grace the court, the Dubai Tennis Championships looks set for success.
Where to park
Parking is limited this year due to major construction around the site. A large car park has been laid out directly opposite the stadium entrance, but it only holds a limited number of cars.
A new footbridge opened today which crosses Casablanca Street (the main road which runs alongside the stadium, serving Shaikh Zayed Road). This will allow people to park on the other side of the road (Al Bustan Rotana side) and walk across the bridge to the stadium.
Local schools in Garhoud have also opened their car parks and shuttle buses will be laid on frequently to bring people to and from the car parks.
What to wear
The games take place in the heat of the day so spectators are urged to wear light clothing as well as remember sun cream, hats and glasses. There is little shade in certain parts of the stadium.
Tickets
Although tickets for the final and semifinal days are already sold out, the box office say there are still tickets available for the first few days. Tickets can only be bought by heading to the box office at the stadium in Garhoud.
There are no guarantees, however organisers say a small amount of tickets may be available on the final days at the box office due to people who make late returns.
Times
Matches start at 2pm everyday and finish when the last scheduled game for the day is won.
Spectators are advised to arrive early to allow time for parking and security into the stadium.
Dates
The Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2008 runs from today until March 8.
The WTA (ladies') tour starts today. Finals are held on March 1. The ATP (men's) tour starts on March 2. Finals are held on March 8.
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