Aldar Education, Manchester City Announce First Elite Football School In Abu Dhabi

Aldar Education has partnered with English Premier League champions Manchester City to launch the Aldar Education Football School, a first-of-its-kind programme in Abu Dhabi designed to develop the emirate’s most talented young footballers.

The collaboration introduces six competitive teams across the under-11, under-13 and under-15 age groups, who will train under UEFA-qualified Manchester City coaches based full-time within Aldar Education schools.

The initiative gives students access to professional-level training and Manchester City’s “Beautiful Football” philosophy, focused on technical mastery, tactical awareness and teamwork.

“The Aldar Education Football School is another example of Manchester City and Aldar Education coming together to enhance the communities of Abu Dhabi,” said Simon Hewitt, Manchester City’s Head of Football for the Middle East and North Africa.

“We are delighted to be providing this opportunity to a wider audience of young players and allowing them to express themselves, have fun, make new friends and strive for excellence.”

Aldar Education CEO Sahar Cooper said the programme reflects the group’s goal of developing “the whole person, both inside and outside the classroom,” she added.

“We are delighted with this significant partnership with Manchester City, which reflects our dedication to providing world-class experiences that inspire and empower our learners.”

Students will be selected annually through trials, with top performers recognised at the end of each season. The school will compete in fixtures and international tours over the coming year, exposing players to elite competition.

The partnership marks a new phase in Aldar Education’s sports development strategy, aligning with the UAE’s broader vision to establish itself as a global hub for youth development and sporting excellence.

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Tala Michel Issa

Tala Michel Issa is the Chief Reporter at Arabian Business and Producer/Presenter of the AB Majlis podcast. Her interviews feature global figures including former Nissan Chairman Carlos Ghosn, Mindvalley's...

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