FC Barcelona, the Spanish football giant, had further strengthened its partnership with the Gulf region as it announced last Sunday the forging of a three year deal with UAE financial institution United Arab Bank.

The announcement was made at Mirdif City Center, with UAB CEO Paul Trowbridge saying the deal would allow its customers access to "a range of initiatives to join the club in Barcelona."

Trowbridge further confirmed the 'brand partnership' would include a financial sponsorship aspect but did not divulge the actual amounts but instead called it 'priceless'. He did acknowledge that the deal would provide UAB an opportunity to reach out to the football club's half a million strong fan base located in the UAE.

He added, "We are excited about this alliance. This is something that our competitors cannot match. We were looking around for names around the world, which hoped to align with us in terms of what we are trying to give our customers and our potential customers. This is a three year relationship where we xan leverage off on another for both loyal fans and customers to have the opportunity to share in the success of the club but also United Arab Bank."