Dubai's football ambitions: Can it outshine Saudi Arabia?

Dubai, aspiring to be the new football capital, faces the challenge of catching up with Saudi Arabia. In an interview with The Sun, a football agent, Charles Cardoso noted that the city has invested millions to keep up with its emerging rival.

From the late 1970s to the early 1990s, Dubai was one of the strongest football hubs in the Middle East. However, Saudi Arabia effectively attracted the attention of the West. Cardoso says Dubai must now attract top athletes to regain its fame.

During the transfer window, I had inquiries from several players, including from top Brazilian clubs and the Premier League," says Cardoso. "The agents in Dubai even told me: ‘Don’t worry about the money’.

Saudi Arabia's investments in football have been aggressive and strategic. After signing a contract with Cristiano Ronaldo, Dubai fell into oblivion. The city wants to return to the global stage and revive its football renaissance.

Dubai has the potential to match Saudi Arabia. Although it missed the chance to sign deals with the biggest players, the city is a financial powerhouse.

The key point is to attract players with a luxury lifestyle similar to what clubs in Saudi Arabia offer. Players can earn up to a million dollars monthly without taxes and competitive salaries. Additionally, Dubai is a more Westernized society, which can be an extra advantage.

Will Dubai become a football powerhouse again? Cardoso believes the city has all the attributes to regain its former prestige. The city has enormous financial capabilities but needs time and dedication to regain the world's attention.