Top 10 football clubs in the Gulf

The Gulf's football scene is heating up, driven by investment, continental ambitions, and growing local passion. These ten clubs lead the charge:

1. Al‑Hilal (Saudi Arabia)


Elite status:

• Record 19 Saudi Pro League titles and 11 King’s Cups.
• Most successful club in Asian history with 4 AFC Champions League trophies (1991, 2000, 2019, 2021)
• Recently knocked Barcelona off its pedestal by beating Manchester City at the Club World Cup, showcasing the Saudi Pro League 's rise.

Impact:
Backed by Saudi’s Public Investment Fund, they’re blending legacy with world-class stars like João Cancelo, Kalidou Koulibaly, Yassine Bounou, and Rúben Neves. This strategy has transformed them into a global brand and continental benchmark.

2. Al‑Ahli (Saudi Arabia)


Revival story:
After being relegated in 2022, they swung back with the 2025 AFC Champions League Elite title, overcoming Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale.

Key factor:
Strong investment post-2023, landing stars like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Ivan Toney; their journey “completes a crazy journey”, says coach Matthias Jaissle.

3. Al‑Ittihad (Saudi Arabia)


Champion pedigree:

• Two-time AFC Champions League winners (2004, 2005)
• Nine Saudi Pro League titles; current title contenders

Momentum:Garden of strong local support and renewed ambition—set to be a major rival in continental competitions.

4. Al‑Nassr (Saudi Arabia)


Global draw:

• Nine league titles, Arab Club Champions Cup winners
• Injected star power with Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mané, and clinched their place in the 2025 ACL Elite quarter-finals

Regional role:
They’re a high-profile brand attracting global sponsors, but performance expectations remain high.

5. Al‑Ain (UAE)


Domestic power:

• 14 UAE Pro League titles and two ACL trophies (2003, 2024)
• Famous for eliminating Ronaldo’s Al‑Nassr in the 2024 ACL quarter-finals ending Al‑Hilal’s 34-match unbeaten streak

Legacy:
Well-structured academy, disciplined management, and consistent performance have cemented their influence.

6. Shabab Al‑Ahli (UAE)


Dubai’s powerhouse:
Nine Pro League titles, multiple domestic cups, and an IFFHS ranking among Asia's top clubs

Influence:
Strong grassroots development, youth systems, and a fan-centric model maintain their elite status.

7. Al‑Wasl (UAE)


Cultural icon:
Seven Pro League titles and a revered legacy since the 1960s

Local impact:
"Club of the Century" in Dubai, nurtures homegrown talent and inspires local support and identity.

8. Al‑Nasr SC (UAE)


Foundational strength:
One of the UAE's oldest clubs, founded in 1945, with multiple league successes

Role:
Maintains firm grassroots presence, develops local talent, and contributes heavily to Dubai’s football narrative.

9. Al‑Sadd (Qatar)


Continental star:

• Qatar Stars League leader with 64 domestic trophies
• Twice Asian champions (1989, 2011)

Significance:
Boosted by post‑World Cup infrastructure and deepened regional appeal, Al‑Sadd remains Qatar’s dominant force.

10. Al‑Rayyan (Qatar)


Traditional heavyweights:

• Eight league titles, six Emir Cup wins, and home of Ahmad bin Ali Stadium

Presence: Deep local roots, fan-based momentum, and consistent top-tier performance define their legacy.


Why These Clubs Matter in the Gulf Today

• Continental dominance: Saudi clubs lead with multiple ACL medals and Club World Cup breakthroughs

• Financial firepower: Backed by PIF and big names, Gulf leagues now attract stars away from Europe

• Cultural engines: UAE clubs to Qatar’s post‑World Cup momentum, football is shaping national identity

• Tourism & youth impact: Clubs are key to sports tourism and building youth engagement across the Gulf