Australian rugby 7s coach Michael O'Connor is confident that his youthful squad is capable of competing on the world stage when the IRB 7s World Series kicks off in Dubai tonight.

O'Connor's 12-man team has an average age of just 20 and only four players - captain Patrick McCutcheon, utility back Brian Sefanaia, Shaun Foley and Clintonn Sills - have previous experience on the eight-leg 7s circuit.

He said it's a good opportunity for them to step out onto the world stage and show what they have got.

Australia have been drawn alongside defending World Series champions South Africa, current Sevens World Cup holders Wales and the Arabian Gulf in the 16-team tournament.

Australia will play Arabian Gulf in their opening pool match tonight at 8:54pm.