Kevin Pietersen is to open a cricket academy in Dubai before the end of 2014.

The former England star, who is widely regarded as one the best and most exciting batsmen of his generation, has recently been in the UAE taking part in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The Delhi Daredevils captain made the announcement on Sunday, revealing that children aged between seven and 18 would benefit from expert coaching and top of the range facilities, though a venue is yet to be confirmed.

Pietersen also confirmed a second centre was planned for India further down the line.

“It’s going to start in October in Dubai. The venue is still to be confirmed. Kids from seven to 18 years of age will be part of the academy,” he explained. “There will be different courses and we will encourage kids from all over the world to come to take up the course for two weeks. I am going to fund a lot of disadvantaged kids and will have a hands-on approach towards the academy.

“We chose Dubai because of its central location. The facilities there are magnificent. The opportunity arose last year and we grabbed it. We are expecting kids from all around the world and will also be funding disadvantaged kids.

“After Dubai, the second academy is going to be set up in India for sure. It is high on priority.”

Pietersen, who was born in South Africa, saw his international cricket career with England end earlier this year after more than a decade of service. However, he will continue playing at major competitions for club sides around the world, including for Surrey Lions in the NatWest T20 Blast (June-July), St Lucia Zouks in the Caribbean Premier League (August) and for an as yet unnamed team in the Australia Big Bash League (Deceember-January 2015).