Buck Moon: What is it and how to watch it across 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