About United Arab Emirates Adnoc Pro-League
The United Arab Emirates Adnoc Pro-League is the highest-tier professional football league in the United Arab Emirates.
Historical Evolution
Established in 1973, the league was initially named the UAE Football League. It was renamed the Etisalat League for the 2006–2007 season, then rebranded as the Arabian Gulf League starting from the 2013–2014 season. In the 2021–2022 season, following a sponsorship agreement with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), it was renamed the UAE ADNOC Pro-League.
Competition Rules
The league features 14 teams competing in a double round-robin format, totaling 26 matches per season. A win earns 3 points, a loss 0 points, and both teams get 1 point for a draw. At the end of the season, rankings are determined by accumulated points; in case of a tie, goal difference is used as the tiebreaker. The top three teams qualify directly for the next season’s AFC Champions League group stage, the fourth-placed team enters the AFC Champions League qualifying round, and the bottom two teams are directly relegated.
Famous Teams and Achievements
Al Ain is the traditional powerhouse of the league, holding the record with 14 championships. Additionally, teams like Al Nasr Dubai and Sharjah have performed well and maintain strong competitiveness in the league.
2024–2025 Season Overview
The season ran from August 23, 2024, to May 26, 2025, with Al Nasr Dubai clinching the title. Based on the season rankings, Al Nasr Dubai secured a spot in the 2025–2026 AFC Champions Elite group stage, Sharjah qualified for the AFC Champions Elite play-offs, and Al Wahda Abu Dhabi entered the second-tier section of the AFC Champions League.