A new year-round football pitch was opened on Saturday at Conestoga Park in West Philadelphia with support from the UAE Embassy in Washington and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
UAE Ambassador to the United States, Yousef Al Otaiba, joined local officials, community leaders and representatives from CHOP to mark the completion of the facility, which is designed to provide young people with a safe space to play and develop their sporting skills.
The opening comes as Philadelphia hosts matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Al Otaiba said the project reflects the shared values of the UAE and the United States, highlighting the role sport can play in building character and creating opportunities for young people.
CHOP President and CEO Madeline Bell described the project as an example of how international partnerships can benefit local communities, while Philadelphia officials said the new facility will help expand access to quality recreational opportunities for children and families.
The pitch will also serve as the home field for the West Philadelphia Soccer Academy, which has been providing football opportunities for young people in the area since 1994.
The project is part of a wider UAE-supported initiative that has delivered football pitches and youth programmes in underserved communities across the United States, including in New York, Boston, Miami, Chicago, Dallas and Washington DC.
The UAE Embassy said the programme has already helped thousands of children gain access to quality sports facilities and free coaching opportunities.
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