Now in its 45th edition, the annual All Stars trip has gone from strength to strength as it continues to promote Gaelic Games worldwide, whilst featuring the most talented players in the sport.

With past games taking place in Kuala Lumpur and New York, the 2016 edition will roll into the UAE for the first time thanks to sponsors Opel and Etihad Airways.

The All Stars are awarded to the best players in the 15 different positions in Gaelic football, and as part of the accolade, the 2015 winners will line-out against the 2016 award winners in an exhibition game at 15:45.

This year’s edition features a busy schedule with Middle East invitational teams playing exhibition matches before the main All Stars game commences in the early afternoon of Friday, November 25.

Speaking ahead of the All Star trip, Middle East GAA Chairman Patrick Moynagh said: “The arrival of the GAA Football All Stars in the Middle East is another major coup for the Middle East GAA Board.

“Still only in its fourth year of operation, the Middle East has now hosted the first GAA World Games in Abu Dhabi, won four World Games titles and will now host one of the key events in the Gaelic Games calendar, with the arrival of the Football All Stars tour to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from 23rd November onward. ”

GAA President Aogan O’Fearghail said: “The GAA All Stars tour is an iconic event in the GAA. The very best of our Gaelic Football players illustrating the passion and skill associated with our national game, to international audiences around the world.

“My first overseas engagement as President of the GAA was to the inaugural GAA World Games in Abu Dhabi in March 2015. And I am now delighted to be in a position to return to the Middle East with the All Stars tour.

“Another first for the Middle East and the Gaelic Athletic Association.”

Verdict: There’s plenty of thrilling action to watch, with the best GAA action on show in what will be a competitive game.