The world’s first Bundesliga Academy has opened in Abu Dhabi after a partnership between the UAE Pro League and the Bundesliga.
The academy will operate from Sport X, a purpose-built training facility in the capital. It will serve as the headquarters for day-to-day operations and player development programmes.
Officials said the academy will offer structured pathways for young players, using training methods drawn from the Bundesliga and adapted for the UAE game. The work will be carried out with the UAE Pro League to match national development plans.
The launch follows a formal agreement between the two leagues aimed at sharing expertise and supporting football development in both countries. Areas of focus include coaching methods, talent pathways, fan engagement and commercial practice.
As part of the partnership, both sides will also look at opportunities for young UAE-based players to progress to clubs in Germany, alongside collaboration on digital content and marketing.
The Bundesliga reported revenues of €6.33 billion in the 2024–25 season, its highest total to date, driven by broadcast deals, commercial growth and overseas reach.
The new academy is intended to apply that experience within a local context, with the stated aim of strengthening long-term football development in the UAE.
