Today, it was announced that the Washington Commanders have been granted international marketing rights in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of the National Football League's Global Markets Program (GMP). This marks the Commanders first entry into the Global Markets Program and the first year teams have been awarded rights in the UAE.

"The Washington Commanders are excited to join the NFL's Global Markets Program and become one of the first teams to expand our marketing and fan engagement efforts into the UAE, an increasingly influential financial, economic and sports hub," said Josh Harris, Managing Partner, Washington Commanders. "This season, our fan base returned with passion, and we were reminded of the power of sports to galvanize and unite our community. Whether in the DMV or around the world, we always strive to create unforgettable experiences and memories for our fans, and look forward to being amongst the first to bring the passion and joy of NFL football to the UAE."

Launched in 2022, the Global Markets Program awards NFL clubs international marketing rights to build brand awareness and fandom beyond the U.S., through fan engagement, events, commercial opportunities and NFL Flag development.

"The expansion of the Global Markets Program in 2025 reflects the NFL's continued focus to grow the game and connect with fans on a global scale," said NFL Executive Vice President, Club Business, Major Events & International Peter O'Reilly. "With more clubs entering the program and existing clubs adding to their global rights, and as the program expands to new markets, we are seeing strong momentum and impact in growing fandom worldwide together."

In total, 29 clubs will participate in the program across 21 international markets — up from 25 clubs across 19 markets in 2024 — as the NFL continues to prioritize global growth and connecting with more fans across markets around the world.