The global football community is set to turn its attention to the Middle East once again, as Dubai has been confirmed as the host city for the next edition of FIFA’s prestigious Best Awards ceremony. The announcement was formally made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, underscoring the organisation’s growing engagement with the region and its expanding role in international sport.
The FIFA Best Awards stand among the most distinguished honours in world football, celebrating excellence across the men’s and women’s games. Each year, the ceremony recognises the Best Men’s Player, Best Women’s Player, Best Coach, and Best Team, alongside several other accolades that reflect sporting merit, leadership, and fair play. Winners are selected through a global voting process, combining the ballots of football fans, media representatives, national team captains, and head coaches—ensuring a broad and balanced reflection of opinion from across the footballing world.
Speaking at the World Sports Summit in Dubai, Infantino revealed that the decision was part of a newly finalised partnership aimed at strengthening football’s global footprint.
“I am delighted to announce that we have concluded a new partnership here in Dubai,” he said. “Together, we will honour the world’s best players, coaches, and teams in a city that has become a true hub for international sport.”
Infantino also highlighted football’s unique ability to unite people beyond borders, cultures, and politics.
“We have enjoyed sport together, and we will continue to celebrate the power of sport to bring unity across the world,” he added, reinforcing FIFA’s vision of football as a global cultural force rather than merely a competitive spectacle.
Dubai’s selection reflects its rising profile as a premier destination for major international sporting events. With world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge venues, and extensive experience in hosting global summits and tournaments, the city is widely viewed as an ideal stage for an event of FIFA’s stature.
The most recent edition of the FIFA Best Awards took place in Doha, Qatar, in 2025, where standout performances across club and international football were rewarded. French forward Ousmane Dembélé was named Best Men’s Player, following an outstanding season marked by decisive goals and consistent influence at the highest level. In the women’s category, Spanish midfield maestro Aitana Bonmatí claimed the top honour, further cementing her status as one of the defining players of her generation.
With the ceremony now heading to Dubai, anticipation is already building for another glittering celebration of footballing excellence—one that promises not only glamour and prestige, but also a renewed emphasis on unity, diversity, and the global spirit of the game.
Key Information at a Glance :
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | FIFA Best Awards Ceremony |
| Next Host City | Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Announcement Made By | Gianni Infantino (FIFA President) |
| Announcement Venue | World Sports Summit, Dubai |
| Last Host City (2025) | Doha, Qatar |
| Best Men’s Player (2025) | Ousmane Dembélé (France) |
| Best Women’s Player (2025) | Aitana Bonmatí (Spain) |
| Voting Participants | Fans, journalists, national team captains & coaches |
