John Obi Mikel is back on football pitch to inspire next generation of UAE residents

This Monday, John Obi Mikel, RIF Trust’s Global Brand Ambassador and former Premier League football legend, visited the Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai to host a one-off football session for several Year 2 pupils on March 20. This visit highlights the importance of quality education and Mikel’s quest to inspire children to become global leaders on and off the field.

Mikel is a former Nigerian footballer who played as a defensive midfielder. He won the Champions League, the Premier League and the Africa Cup of Nations among other trophies. He retired from football in 2022 at the age of 35. In October 2022, Mikel became RIF Trust’s Global Brand Ambassador and joined the ranks of other international talents who have directly benefited from the UAE's Golden Visa programme, which allows foreign talents and athletes to live in Dubai after retirement.

Sister school of one of the most prestigious schools in the UK, The Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai (RGSGD) is a forward-looking, leading British curriculum school which opened in September 2021. The vibrant and welcoming school offers British education to pupils aged from 3 to 18 years old and empowers its pupils to flourish and grow into future-ready young people.

"Education and opportunity are the keys to unlocking one's potential and pursuing one's dreams," Mikel said during his visit. "I am impressed by the Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai's commitment to providing a high-quality education that fosters academic excellence, personal development and co-curricular activities. The Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai offers a world-class education that prepares students to be future global leaders."

David Regueiro, RIF Trust’s chief operating officer, also highlighted the importance of education in shaping future generations. "Education is the foundation of sustainable development and social progress," Regueiro said. "We are proud to support the Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai's mission to inspire and enable young people to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in the world."

Mikel and Regueiro’s visit to the school also highlighted the benefits of the UAE's Golden Visa programme. "The UAE's Golden Visa programme is a game-changer for individuals who want to live in the UAE and give their family the best opportunities for the future," Regueiro said. "It allows them to enjoy the high quality of life, security, stability and multiculturalism that Dubai offers, as well as access to various benefits such as tax exemptions, property ownership, business setup, education and healthcare."

For more information on how to obtain a UAE Golden Visa or residency or citizenship through investment programmes, visit www.riftrust.com, call +971 4 520 6777 or email contact@riftrust.com.