Initiation of the Dubai Open for Football Academies, in cooperation between the Dubai Sports Council and the United Arab Emirates Football Association

The Dubai Sports Council alongside the UAE Football Association announced the organization of the first edition of the Dubai Open for Football Academies, as part of joint efforts between the two parties for the aim of football development, especially the youth sector in Dubai clubs and the private sector.

The new tournament aims to ensure maximum added value to the youth sector and football academies in Dubai. DOFA will take place between October 2022 and March 2023, for the following age groups: 8-9-10-12-14-16-18 years, boys and girls. This major event will be hosted at Inspiratus Sports District (ISD), home of the Dubai Sports City stadiums, with Delta Allied Sports as the operational partner.

Previously, Dubai Sports Council organized five successful academy tournaments which led to the increase in the number of academies in Dubai, and set the stage for some of the most promising rising talents in the country.

Eligible parties for participation are: academies of Dubai clubs, private sports academies licensed in Dubai, as well as academies of clubs competing in the second and third divisions in the UAE FA. The anticipated DOFA will host 2,000 players weekly from more than 100 teams in various age categories representing 40 accredited football academies.

The major event aims to motivate academies to develop their programs, ensure the continuity of their activities and license them from the Council and the Federation. DOFA will also create a competitive atmosphere where Dubai clubs and private sports academies interact. Another important aim is to increase the number of matches played by players to reach the international level (between 35 and 40 match annually).

The tournament competition program includes more than 1,000 matches at a rate of 60 matches per week (according to the approved health protocols). The tournament will be organized according to health protocols and insurance coverage. Moreover, the matches will be managed by referees accredited by the UAE Football Association.

The Dubai Sports Council and the UAE Football Association are inviting all eligible academies to participate in the tournament. Competition regulations that include technical specifications in terms of stadium dimensions for each category, playing time, and other aspects were set in accordance with approved international standards, which contribute to providing the best atmosphere for competition, securing the opportunity to develop and gain more experience for young talents.