UAE Football Clubs Back Disciplinary Action Against Players for Misconduct During National Team Camp

Sharjah and Shabab Al Ahli affirm commitment to discipline, values, and national representation after players suspended and fined

Two of the UAE’s top football clubs, Sharjah FC and Shabab Al Ahli, have issued strong statements in support of the UAE Football Association’s disciplinary actions against their players, following behavioural violations during a national team training camp on June 7, 2025. The governing body suspended and fined Khalid Al Dhanhani of Sharjah Club and Sultan Adel of Shabab Al Ahli, imposing a Dh500,000 fine each and a five-match ban in local competitions.

The UAE Football Association announced the penalties on June 8, citing violations of conduct inside the national team camp. Though specific details of the infractions were not publicly disclosed, the response from both clubs signals a unified stance in upholding the standards expected of players representing the nation.

Sharjah FC: “Representing the Country Is a Great Honour”

Sharjah FC stated it had “closely reviewed” the decision regarding Al Dhanhani’s suspension and confirmed that internal disciplinary procedures have been initiated in line with the club’s regulations.

In a formal statement, the club expressed regret over the incident, reinforcing its stance on discipline and professionalism:

“Representing the country is a great honour that requires all players to maintain professional behavior and full discipline.”

Sharjah FC reiterated its continued support for the national teams, adding that it remains committed to preparing its players as role models on and off the pitch—reflecting the honourable image of Emirati football.

Shabab Al Ahli: “Players Are Ambassadors of the Nation”

Shabab Al Ahli responded with a firm condemnation of Sultan Adel’s behaviour. The club emphasised that disciplinary measures had been taken in line with internal codes of conduct, expressing deep disappointment over the incident.

“Players are ambassadors of the nation. It is their responsibility to reflect a respectable image through values, discipline, and sportsmanship,” the club said.

In its statement, Shabab Al Ahli reaffirmed its unwavering support for the national teams, pledging to uphold the UAE’s name on regional and international stages.

A Broader Pattern of Accountability in UAE Sports

This is not the first time the UAE Football Association and clubs have taken decisive action to curb misconduct. In May 2025, clubs Al Wasl and Shabab Al Ahli were fined Dh150,000 combined after fans engaged in unruly behaviour during an Adnoc Pro League match, including bottle-throwing and the use of smoke bombs.

Additionally, earlier this year, two football fans were arrested for setting off distress flares during a match—highlighting the UAE’s strict regulations and zero-tolerance approach to infractions during sporting events.

These recent events underscore the country’s broader efforts to instill a culture of respect, discipline, and professionalism within its sports ecosystem. As football continues to grow in popularity across the UAE, both clubs and players are expected to embody the spirit of sportsmanship that reflects the nation’s values on and off the field.