Sheikh Mohammed Celebrates Shabab Al Ahli's Historic Football Season
A heartfelt exchange between Dubai's Ruler and a goalkeeper highlights an emotional team reception.
Dubai's Ruler, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, honored the Shabab Al Ahli football team on May 30, 2025, during a reception at Zabeel Palace to recognize their successful 2024–2025 season.
The team had an outstanding year, securing four major titles, including their ninth UAE Pro League championship, the UAE President's Cup for the 11th time, the UAE Super Cup, and the UAE-Qatar Super Cup.
The reception, which was intended to formally celebrate the players' achievements, took a poignant turn when a moment between Sheikh Mohammed and goalkeeper Hamad Al Maqbali garnered widespread attention.
As Al Maqbali approached the Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged the player’s emotional gesture after winning the President's Cup, recalling how Al Maqbali had climbed the stands to embrace his mother in celebration.
Sheikh Mohammed stated warmly, "May God prolong your life," as a blessing, creating a significant pause in the room.
Sheikh Mohammed extended his congratulations to the players, coaches, and administrative staff, recognizing their collective effort and dedication throughout the season.
He underscored the importance of the sports sector in the UAE's national development strategy, emphasizing its role in human progress and the country’s international reputation.
The leadership's unwavering support for sports aims to foster societal values, promote role models, and cultivate a confident and ambitious youth.
The reception not only celebrated the team's sporting success but also highlighted the emotional connections and familial bonds that often underpin athletic triumphs.
The team had an outstanding year, securing four major titles, including their ninth UAE Pro League championship, the UAE President's Cup for the 11th time, the UAE Super Cup, and the UAE-Qatar Super Cup.
The reception, which was intended to formally celebrate the players' achievements, took a poignant turn when a moment between Sheikh Mohammed and goalkeeper Hamad Al Maqbali garnered widespread attention.
As Al Maqbali approached the Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged the player’s emotional gesture after winning the President's Cup, recalling how Al Maqbali had climbed the stands to embrace his mother in celebration.
Sheikh Mohammed stated warmly, "May God prolong your life," as a blessing, creating a significant pause in the room.
Sheikh Mohammed extended his congratulations to the players, coaches, and administrative staff, recognizing their collective effort and dedication throughout the season.
He underscored the importance of the sports sector in the UAE's national development strategy, emphasizing its role in human progress and the country’s international reputation.
The leadership's unwavering support for sports aims to foster societal values, promote role models, and cultivate a confident and ambitious youth.
The reception not only celebrated the team's sporting success but also highlighted the emotional connections and familial bonds that often underpin athletic triumphs.
