[1] The club is well known for nurturing young talent, playing exhibition matches against professional overseas teams and for being one of leading football brands in the Middle-East.

[2][3][4] In 2019, the Gulf United academy was founded by a group of English football coaches from Manchester, and has since become one of the market leaders.

Gulf United brings expert coaches from all around the world to Dubai and describes itself as a club 'driven on player development'.

In January 2022, Gulf United played with 7-time Slovakian Super Liga winners MSK Zilina.

The match ended 1–0 to Al Ain FC with a goal scored by UAE international Bandar Al-Ahbabi.

[24] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.