Little was known about the deal before it was completed on September 1, which was also soccer’s player transfer deadline. The new ownership immediately made several lavish bids for players and was able to sign Brazilian star Robinho from Real Madrid for a British record £32.5 million.

Abu Dhabi is the capital city and largest emirate of the United Arab Emirates, but it has been overshadowed by neighboring Dubai. Dubai has become world famous for extravagant projects including the world’s tallest building, a string of manmade islands shaped like countries, and Dubailand, a massive resort and theme park that includes Dubai Sports City, a complex featuring several modern sports stadiums.