DFL: MoU with the UAE Pro League including the launch of a Bundesliga academy in Abu Dhabi

The Bundesliga and the UAE Pro League, the professional football league of the United Arab Emirates, have signed a memorandum of understanding that includes the launch of an official Bundesliga academy in Abu Dhabi, announced the DFL on 10/02/2026.

"The goal of the partnership is to foster collaboration and the sharing of expertise in the areas of technical expertise, broadcasting, youth player development, fan engagement as well as commercial and marketing. The Bundesliga Academy is a fundamental part of the MoU, with the joint goal of developing local football talent," said the German League.

Based in a facility named "Sport X" and inaugurated on 06/02/2026, the Bundesliga Academy will be developed in collaboration with Target Global Sports, a local company.

"The announcement also coincides with the opening of Bundesliga International’s new regional office in Abu Dhabi, underlining the league’s strategic focus on the MENA region and its ambition to play an active, on-the-ground role in the region’s football growth," added the DFL.

The Bundesliga, which launched an Arabic-language…