The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has unveiled an innovative $13M funding initiative and support system aimed at bolstering women’s soccer in the country. This groundbreaking project aims to strengthen women’s soccer leagues and the overall sport across Saudi Arabia.
Under the SAFF program, financial assistance will be provided to women’s clubs competing in the Saudi Premier League and the first division. To qualify for this funding, clubs must hold a SAFF membership and possess a Nafes license, allowing them to actively participate in all women’s tournaments organized by the federation.
Additionally, clubs must meet SAFF’s organizational and technical requirements and demonstrate their financial stability and adherence to an efficient financial management system. This initiative signifies a significant step forward in promoting and developing women’s football in Saudi Arabia.
Commenting on the occasion, Lamia Bahaian, the newly elected vice-president of SAFF, said: “Today’s announcement is another monumental step for SAFF in our unwavering dedication to developing and sustaining a thriving women’s soccer presence in the kingdom.
The rapid growth of women’s soccer clubs and players in Saudi Arabia, including in non-major cities, has been a key driver behind the new program. Recognizing the vast potential of women’s football, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) is committed to supporting and sustaining this growth.
The program aims to achieve several important objectives, such as expanding competitions to include an Under-17 team and a women’s futsal senior team. It also seeks to create job opportunities by appointing Saudi female coaches within the technical staff and recruiting women in administrative, technical, and medical positions.
Additionally, the program aims to develop athletes to represent national teams by offering professional contracts.
The progress of women’s sports in Saudi Arabia is evident, with over 190,000 active female participants across various disciplines. Currently, the Premier and first-division leagues comprise more than 30 clubs and over 600 players from over 20 different nationalities.
These achievements demonstrate the growing presence and recognition of women’s soccer in the kingdom.
