DUBAI: Dubai Cricket Stadium has plans. Along with cricket fever, it brought in an elaborate (and slightly hilarious) rulebook.

To ensure compliance, large signs have been placed at ticket counters and public parking areas near the stadium, reminding spectators that cricket is a game, not a political rally. The message is clear: “Leave political ideas, slogans, posters, and banners at home!”

Taking fan enthusiasm into account, officials have also issued a list of prohibited items - including some unlikely ones for Dubai. Fans are strictly forbidden from bringing weapons, knives, bombs, or pistols into the stadium. The graphic warnings on banners have even sparked humour among fans, with some joking: “They’re banning bombs, but will they at least let us bring a water bottle like our champion Sarfraz?”

As expected, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the stadium. Instead, fans are encouraged to purchase refreshments from food stalls inside. The stadium had food stalls offering everything from shawarma to biryani. Yet, fans were requested not to sneak in their own snacks. However, parents with young children are permitted to bring milk and other essential baby food items. Bringing animals to the stadium is strictly prohibited.

A cricket fan quipped: “My parrot loves cricket - can’t I bring him along?” Some fans attempt to avoid traffic congestion by using skateboards or bicycles to reach the venue, but the stadium administration has banned these items inside the premises. Authorities have strictly prohibited flash photography and video recording during matches. Spectators are not allowed to bring glassware, alcohol, or any toxic materials into the stadium.