Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed (MbZ) held discussions with Chief of world football governing body Gianni Infantino as he seeks to build strong ties with FIFA and bring his country to play a major role in world football.
The meeting between the Crown Prince and Infantino was held on the sidelines of the final of the FIFA Club World Cup tournament hosted by the UAE.
MbZ highlighted the UAE’s goal of encouraging cultural integration through sport by developing closer links with Fifa, Arabia Business reports.
The Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces also stressed the importance for the UAE to host the international tournament.
It is the second time in a row that Abu Dhabi has been chosen to host the global football event gathering reigning champions of various continental top club championships.
The gulf country plans to use sport events to attract tourists. In October the local head of the FIFA tournament, Aref Hamed Al Awani said the committee will focus on making a return on its investment by attracting tourists to Abu Dhabi.
The UAE, through host Al Ain team, stunned the world. The local team lost Saturday to Spain’s giant Real Madrid after qualifying brilliantly for the final.
The club axed South American superpower River Plate in penalty shootout after a thrilling performance.
