Sporting Prestige in Dubai
Dubai is rapidly emerging as a significant hub for global sports, especially following the UAE’s narrow miss at securing a second appearance in the FIFA World Cup. The country previously showcased its talent in the 1990 World Cup held in Italy but recently fell just short in qualifications, edged out by Qatar. As the year draws to a close, the attention of the sports elite will converge in this vibrant Gulf emirate.
Cristiano Ronaldo Honored at Globe Soccer Summit
During the Globe Soccer football summit in Dubai, held on a sunny Sunday, superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was awarded the title of Middle East Player of the Year. Currently playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo is no stranger to the Gulf region, often gracing sports conferences. He has even made Dubai his home, owning a luxurious villa in the exclusive Jumeirah Bay Island, also dubbed “Billionaire Island.”
FIFA Awards Set for Dubai
In an exciting announcement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed at the World Sports Summit 2025 that the FIFA World Football Awards will be hosted in Dubai starting in 2026. Previously known as “The Best Awards,” this prestigious ceremony recognizes the most impactful figures in football, celebrating exceptional players, teams, and their achievements over the past year.
Infantino highlighted that these awards will transcend a traditional ceremony, presenting an innovative approach to honor the sport and its top performers both on and off the field. His fondness for the Arab world is evident; on November 25, he accepted Lebanese citizenship as a gesture of solidarity and connection, particularly due to his commitment to the sport within that region.
World Cup Participation
The excitement doesn’t stop there. The upcoming World Cup, set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will feature representation from six Arab teams: Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan—marking its inaugural participation—Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt. Infantino expressed his enthusiasm at a lavish event in the Madinat Jumeirah resort, noting the sheer scale of the tournament with 48 teams participating across 104 matches, likening it to hosting “104 Super Bowls” over just a month.
The Allure of Living in Dubai
Many sports personalities have made Dubai their home for good reason. Renowned figures like Roger Federer and tennis sensation Kristina “Kiki” Mladenovic reside in the city, while others like Lionel Messi and David Beckham are reportedly bolstering their investments through real estate in the region. Tunisian tennis star Ons Jabeur, the top Arab player currently, recently established her own tennis academy in Dubai Academic City. Alongside her husband, coach Karim Kanoun, they are eagerly anticipating the birth of their first child in April 2026.
Dubai’s attractive features—such as tax benefits, safety, an international airport, and a pleasant climate almost all year round—offer a strong incentive for high-profile residents. As winter approaches, the city advertises delightful Mediterranean temperatures, making it an ideal escape for many.
Real Estate Ventures of Sports Stars
In early 2025, former Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain defender Mamadou Sakho took the entrepreneurial leap by founding a luxury real estate and interior design firm, “Sakho & Co,” in Dubai. This move underscores his shift from athletic endeavors to the business realm in a bustling market. Sports stars investing in Dubai not only adds to their portfolios but also significantly boosts the city’s global profile.
FC Bayern Munich Opts for Home Training
As 2025 draws to a close, Dubai faced a slight disappointment as FC Bayern Munich announced they would not travel to the emirate for winter training. Known for combining training camps with fan vacations, many looked forward to seeing the Bundesliga leaders in action. However, the club clarified that a tighter schedule leading into the FIFA World Cup made a trip unfeasible.
With star players like Harry Kane and captain Manuel Neuer, the team will instead conduct their training at home under the direction of coach Vincent Kompany, set to play a friendly against FC Red Bull Salzburg on January 6.
