According to the Emirates News Agency, the UAE government made the $5 million pledge to support the fund’s mission of improving access to education for millions of children through the sport of football. The contribution was announced as the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund exceeded $60 million in pledges, with an ultimate target of $100 million, a Global Citizen assessment found. This support from the UAE will help fund grassroots organizations focused on education and sports development in developing regions.
The fund has selected 31 new community-based organizations in 18 countries to receive grants, bringing the total number of grantees to 58 with a combined reach of more than 400,000 children, according to a statement from Global Citizen. These organizations, located in nations including Brazil, India, Nigeria and the United States, will implement programs that blend education with football activities. Grant amounts range between $50,000 and $250,000 per organization.
Half of all funds raised are directed to FIFA’s Football for Schools initiative, which is active in 155 countries around the world, FIFA figures show. The other half supports independent calls for applications managed by Global Citizen, targeting registered entities that promote literacy and learning quality. This structure ensures both broad international coverage and targeted local impact.
The partnership between FIFA and Global Citizen was established to address the global education crisis, with an advisory board featuring prominent names such as FIFA President Gianni Infantino, singer Shakira and actress Serena Williams, the organizations said in a joint release. Additional donors include the MetLife Foundation, which committed $9 million, and various governments and corporations. Music artists have also contributed through tour proceeds and royalty donations.
Global Citizen data places the number of children out of school worldwide at 350 million, underscoring the urgency of the fund’s work. Programs funded to date have focused on anti-trafficking, girls’ education, digital literacy and community development through sport. The latest grants will extend these efforts across diverse geographic regions.
Michael Sheldrick said, “These 31 remarkable grantees… Now we continue to invite the leaders of big football nations like French President Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez to also support the campaign.” The quote came from the recent announcement detailing the new grantees and pledges. The UAE’s $5 million commitment was specifically noted for its potential impact in the Middle East and North Africa.
