UAE has welcomed the BCCI decision to host the opening round of 20 matches in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. The CEO of the Emirates Cricket Board, David East said that the manner in which the matches have been evenly distributed by the IPL Governing Council will give everyone from all parts of the UAE, a very good opportunity to come out and be a part of the big event. Dubai based International Cricket Council, ICC has also welcomed the move and said it will provide all possible support to ensure the sanctity of the game of cricket in a transparent manner.According to the schedule, 20 matches will be played in UAE. The opening match of IPL 7 season between the defending Kolkata night Riders and Mumbai Indians will be held in Abu Dhabi on April 16. The IPL opening ceremony is also expected to held in Abu Dhabi. The first phase runs from April 16 to April 30. Abu Dhabi and Dubai will host seven games each while six matches will be played in Sharjah. The eight franchises will play at least once in all the three cities. The IPL7 Opening season is being seen as a a great opportunity for the cricket fans in the UAE. With a large expat population from the Indian sub-continent, the matches are expected to be a sell-out. The IPL was moved to the UAE after it coincided with the general elections in India.