Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan said sustained leadership backing helped develop generations of UAE athletes. He thanked national-team supporters and congratulated Saudi Arabia after its 2-0 Gulf Cup 27 final win.
United's two compliance failures led to a total AED 40,000 fine during the President's Cup. Al Bataeh and Al Dhafra were fined AED 10,000 each; seven clubs received warnings.
The UAE Football Association is arranging six private planes for Tuesday's Gulf Cup final against Saudi Arabia in Jeddah. Organisers expect 10,000 supporters, and more free-flight initiatives may follow.
Ismail Matar, one of the UAE's most celebrated footballers, has officially joined the national team's coaching staff under head coach Zlatko Dalic. The appointment was met with enthusiastic support from players, with Matar pledging full commitment to his new role.
UAE football icon Ismail Matar has joined the national team's coaching staff, working with head coach Zlatko Dalic as preparations ramp up in Abu Dhabi for the 2026 Gulf Cup. Matar's move from player to coach marks a new chapter for the squad.
The UAE Football Association has named its 23-man squad for the Olympic team heading to the Asian Games in Japan. Yahya Al Ghassani and Mohammed Jumaa are included, which means they will not play in the Gulf Cup. Coach Igor Bišćan leads the team.
The UAE Pro League has rapidly enforced nine new FIFA regulations, targeting time-wasting and boosting fairness. Early rounds saw immediate penalties and a visible shift in match rhythm, positioning UAE football at the forefront of global rule adoption.
The UAE Football Association's Disciplinary Committee has imposed AED 10,000 fines on both Shabab Al Ahli and Al Wasl after fan incidents during their Dubai derby, including smoke flares, unauthorised banners, and objects thrown at officials. The crackdown signals a tougher stance on crowd behaviour.
