American College Coaches Itinerary
Dubai American College Showcase
Real Madrid World Complex, Dubai, UAE
February 18 – 23, 2026
✈ Return:
February 18, 2026
(Dubai -> Boston)
✈ Departure:
February 23, 2026
(Boston -> Dubai)
HOTEL: THE FIRST COLLECTION DUBAI, MARINA
Located in the heart of Dubai Marina, the hotel offers modern, upscale accommodations within walking distance to the waterfront, shopping, and dining. The property features a pool, gym, and high-performance meeting spaces ideal for team briefings. With a mix of comfort and convenience, the hotel provides the perfect base for athletes to rest, recover, and prepare.
Sponsored by:
• First Eleven • Star Academy • Valeo Futbol Club
TRAINING VENUES
JBR Beach
(Jumeirah Beach Residence)
One of Dubai’s most iconic beachfronts. Sessions here focus on conditioning, agility, and small-sided play in the sand an intense environment that develops strength, balance, and endurance. Morning sessions provide breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf.
Sports Complex Dubai
A state-of-the-art training facility with full-size pitches, indoor/outdoor turf, and modern amenities. The complex offers Valeo players the perfect professional-level setting for tactical training, positional play, and match preparation.
ATTRACTIONS & TEAM EXPERIENCES
Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall
Players will experience the world’s tallest building and one of the largest malls on Earth, combining culture, shopping, and iconic sightseeing.
Dubai Desert Safari
A team bonding adventure across the sand dunes, capped with a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars.
Dubai Marina
With its waterfront promenade, dining, and modern skyline, this will be the team’s home neighborhood offering both convenience and cultural immersion.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
DAY 1
Wednesday, Feb 18
Arrival in Dubai
- Arrive Dubai International Airport (DXB).
- Transfer to The First Collection Dubai, Marina Hotel.
- Evening: Welcome Dinner & Showcase Orientation.
DAY 2
Thursday, Feb 19
Showcase – Game Day 1
- Morning: Breakfast at hotel. Free time or sightseeing (Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall).
- Afternoon/Evening: Showcase Game #1 at Real Madrid World Complex.
- Night: Dinner at The First Collection Dubai, Marina Hotel.
DAY 3
Friday, Feb 20
Showcase – Game Day 2
- Morning: Breakfast at hotel.
- Midday: College Seminar – Recruiting Pathways & U.S. College Soccer.
- Afternoon/Evening: Showcase Game #2 at Real Madrid World Complex.
- Night: Dinner at hotel & daily recap.
DAY 4
Saturday, Feb 21
Showcase – Game Day 3
- Morning: Breakfast at hotel.
- Midday: College Seminar – Life as a Student-Athlete.
- Afternoon/Evening: Showcase Game #3 (knockout/finals) at Real Madrid World Complex.
- Night: Networking Dinner with Showcase Sponsors.
DAY 5
Sunday, Feb 22
Cultural & Sightseeing Day
- Morning: Breakfast at hotel.
- Afternoon: Dubai Desert Safari — dune bashing, camel rides, cultural performances.
- Evening: Traditional dinner under the stars.
DAY 6
Monday, Feb 23
Departure
- Morning: Breakfast at hotel.
- Hotel check-out & transfer to Dubai International Airport (DXB).
- Return flights to U.S.
Matches
Barcelona Dubai
PSG Dubai
Star Academy
Accommodations:
The First Collection Dubai, Marina Hotel
Upscale hotel in the heart of Dubai Marina. Amenities include pool, gym, and dining. Breakfast and dinner provided daily.
Key Features:
- 3 Showcase Game Days at Real Madrid World Complex (late afternoon & night).
- Seminars & Networking with First Eleven, Valeo, and Star Academy.
- Daily Breakfast & Dinner included.
- Cultural Excursions: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Desert Safari.
- Comfortable stay at The First Collection Dubai, Marina Hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
General
What are the tour dates?
Players depart Boston Logan Airport on Friday, February 18, 2026 and return Sunday, February 23, 2026.
Where will the team stay?
At The First Collection Dubai, Marina Hotel — a modern, athlete-friendly hotel with pool, gym, and recovery facilities, located in the heart of Dubai Marina.
Where will training and games be held?
Training will be at JBR Beach and Sports Complex Dubai. Matches will be played at the Real Madrid World Complex as part of the Dubai American College Showcase.
Soccer
Who will Valeo play against?
Players will compete against local Clubs and academies such as Barcelona Dubai Academy, PSG Dubai Academy, and Star Academy.
What is the Dubai American College Showcase?
A 3-day event (Feb 19–21) with games, training sessions, and college seminars attended by coaches from 10 top U.S. universities.
How many games will players play?
Each player will participate in 3 international friendlies and 3 showcase matches.
Travel & Packing
What documents are needed?
A valid passport (at least 6 months validity from travel dates). No visa required for U.S. citizens staying under 30 days.
Are meals included?
Yes — breakfast and dinner daily at the hotel. Lunch is provided at match/training venues or available at local restaurants.
What should players pack?
- Valeo training & match gear (home, away, and practice kits)
- Cleats, indoor shoes, shin guards, socks
- Personal recovery items (foam roller, bands, etc.)
- Casual wear for excursions
- Spending money for snacks, souvenirs, and personal items
Safety & Supervision
Who will supervise the players?
Players are under full-time supervision by Valeo FC coaches and staff during all activities, meals, and excursions.
What happens if a player needs medical attention?
Valeo staff will assist immediately. We will have local healthcare facilities identified in advance, and families must provide health insurance and medical info forms.
What safety measures are in place?
All hotels, transport, and venues are secured. Players will move as a group under staff guidance at all times.
Cultural Activities
What sightseeing is planned?
Players will visit the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and enjoy a Dubai Desert Safari with cultural dinner. Time in the Dubai Marina area is also scheduled.
Will players have free time?
Yes, but all free time is structured and supervised by staff.
Costs & Payments
How much does the tour cost?
The all-inclusive cost is $2,995, which covers:
- Round-trip airfare from Boston
- Hotel accommodations at The First Collection Dubai, Marina Hotel
- Daily breakfast & dinner
- All ground transportation
- Training facilities, match fees, and showcase participation
- Excursions & cultural activities
Is there an early bird discount?
Yes — the Early Bird fee is $2,895 if registered by the deadline.
What is the deposit?
A $495 deposit is due at registration to secure your spot.
What payment options are available?
Families can pay the balance in 1, 2, 3, or 4 installments.