The BRICS International Football Alliance (BIFA) held its first-ever Council Meeting at the BIFA+ Global Headquarters in the UAE, marking a milestone in its mission to advance football diplomacy and cooperation across the Global South.

The session, attended by official representatives from China, underscored the strengthening partnership between the UAE and the People’s Republic of China in promoting sports, cultural, and technological exchange under the BIFA & BIFA+ framework.

Held under the theme “Deepening Sports Synergy and Promoting Diversified Development,” the meeting reviewed BIFA’s achievements since its establishment and outlined a bold strategic roadmap for 2026–2027, driving collaboration among BRICS and BRICS+ nations.

2026: BRICS Football International Village to debut in UAE

Next year, BIFA+ will launch the BRICS Football International Village at its UAE headquarters,  an integrated “sports, culture, health, and innovation” hub designed to foster collaboration and showcase the spirit of the Global South.

The initiative will connect regional headquarters in the UAE, China, Russia, Brazil, India, and South Africa, and feature cultural exhibitions, AI innovation forums, and the BRICS Football Cup Invitational Tournament, culminating in the BIFA+ Global Launch Ceremony in the UAE.

2027: China to host expanded BRICS Cup activities

In 2027, as China hosts the BRICS Summit, the country will also welcome the BRICS Cup Football Tournament, bringing together champion city teams from across member nations.

Ms. Wang Min, Chair of BIFA China, said the tournament will blend “Football + Urban Culture + New Media” – using digital storytelling and live engagement to make the BRICS Cup a globally recognised cultural sporting event.

A global platform for unity and innovation

BIFA’s development strategy is built around its “three-wheel drive”, sports, culture, and technology, ensuring sustainable growth and collaboration among BRICS nations.

Salem Almazaini, Founder and President of BIFA & BIFA+, said: “From our headquarters in the UAE, BIFA will use football as a vessel to deepen cooperation among BRICS and BRICS+ nations across sports, culture, health, and digital innovation.”

Founded under the guidance of Larisa Zelentsova, President of the International Alliance of BRICS Strategic Projects (Russia), BIFA continues to grow as a bridge between nations, using football as a language of diplomacy and sustainable development.

Cricket fever is about to hit new highs. As the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 gears up for another electrifying season, organisers have rolled out a new Super Fan Contest, a golden opportunity for UAE cricket lovers to win experiences money can’t buy.

Think masterclasses with cricket legends, serving as ball kids, photo ops with top players, signed gear, and even free match tickets.

“This will galvanise community participation locally and give us yet another opportunity to showcase this incredible emirate,” said Matt Boucher, CEO of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub. 

“We’re thrilled to announce the Super Fan Contest, which reflects our commitment to supporting cricket at the grassroots level.”

Shaji Ul Mulk, Chairman of T10 Sports Management, added, “For any cricket fan, being close to their favourite players is unmatched. This contest is all about elevating the fan experience and celebrating the excitement that defines T10 cricket.”

The 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 kicks off on November 18 and runs until November 30, promising high-octane clashes, thrilling finishes, and unforgettable moments.

The opening night sets the tone with Quetta Qavalry vs. Northern Warriors, followed by a showdown between the defending champions, Deccan Gladiators, and Delhi Bulls.

Fans can keep an eye on the official Abu Dhabi T10 social media pages for entry details and a shot at these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Not every website is what it seems, and that “official-looking” page you just opened might actually be a clever scam.

That’s the warning from the UAE Cyber Security Council, which has urged internet users to pay close attention to every click, as cybercriminals are getting smarter at mimicking trusted websites.

According to the Council, fraudsters often exploit tiny details, a swapped letter in a URL, a missing padlock icon, or an unusual domain, to lure users into fake websites that steal personal information.

“Smart user choices are the key to staying safe online,” the Council reminded.

To verify whether a website is genuine, residents can use the official StaySafe platform at staysafe.csc.gov.ae.

Look for these red flags

The Council has listed several warning signs to spot fraudulent websites:

• Misspelt URLs or extra characters
• The absence of HTTPS (the “S” stands for secure)
• No padlock icon in the browser bar
• Unusual or suspicious domain extensions

If any of these appear, don’t share your details.

The Council also explained the crucial difference between HTTP and HTTPS.
While HTTP transmits data in plain text (and can be intercepted by hackers), HTTPS encrypts information and verifies a website’s authenticity before data is exchanged.

Smart browsing habits that protect your data

The UAE Cyber Security Council has shared some practical steps to browse safely:

• Use private browsing mode to reduce tracking.
• Install privacy extensions for extra protection.
• Clear cookies and cache regularly.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive tasks.
• Always check for HTTPS before entering personal data.
• Never click on suspicious links or QR codes.

Your smartphone, the Council noted, contains highly sensitive data, from Emirates ID to financial information, making regular browser updates and caution essential.

Whether you’re shopping, banking, or simply browsing, a moment’s caution can save you from a major cyber headache.

So next time, before you click, pause, and check that padlock.