12 Most Popular Athletes from United Arab Emirates

Discover the most popular athletes from the United Arab Emirates.

Learn about the sports stars who have made an impact in their various fields.

Explore the careers of the most popular athletes hailing from the UAE and their influence on the world of sports.

If you’re specifically interested in the soccer legends of the UAE, be sure to check out our list of the most popular soccer players from The United Arab Emirates.

#1 Omar Abdulrahman

• 🏆 Sport(s): Football (Soccer)
• 🎂 Born in: 1991
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: AFC Asian Footballer of the Year (2016)

Omar Abdulrahman, a prominent figure in Emirati football, has made a significant impact with his exceptional skill and playmaking abilities. With a passionate fan base, he has become a symbol of the potential for UAE athletes in the world of football.

Off the field, Omar’s philanthropy and engagement with his fans have further endeared him to the nation.

#2 Fares Juma

• 🏆 Sport(s): Football (Soccer)
• 🎂 Born in: 1989
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: UAE Pro-League Champion

Fares Juma, a stalwart in Emirati football, has shown remarkable consistency and commitment as a defender throughout his career. His performances have earned him numerous accolades and the admiration of fans and peers alike.

Away from the pitch, Fares Juma has become a role model for aspiring young footballers in the UAE.

#3 Saif Bin Futtais

• 🏆 Sport(s): Shooting
• 🎂 Born in: 1974
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: ISSF World Cup Medals in Skeet Shooting

Saif Bin Futtais, a renowned Emirati marksman, has made significant strides in the sport of shooting. With his outstanding performance and dedication, he has inspired countless Emiratis to take up shooting as a professional sport.

His hard work and perseverance have put UAE shooters on the global map.

#4 Bakhit Saad

• 🏆 Sport(s): Football (Soccer)
• 🎂 Born in: 1990
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: UAE President’s Cup Winner

Bakhit Saad, a talented forward in Emirati football, has demonstrated remarkable goal-scoring abilities throughout his career. His performances have not only garnered attention from the local sports scene but also from international football clubs.

Bakhit Saad’s flair and dedication have made him a favorite among football fans in the UAE.

#5 Ali Mabkhout

• 🏆 Sport(s): Football (Soccer)
• 🎂 Born in: 1990
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: AFC Asian Cup Top Scorer (2015)

Ali Mabkhout, one of the UAE’s top strikers, has showcased consistent goal-scoring prowess throughout his career. His exceptional talent has been instrumental in propelling the national team to new heights on the international stage.

His tenacity and dedication have made him a hero for aspiring footballers across the UAE.

#6 Mahmoud Khamis

• 🏆 Sport(s): Football (Soccer)
• 🎂 Born in: 1984
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Represented UAE in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup

Mahmoud Khamis, a versatile Emirati footballer, has displayed exceptional talent in both traditional and beach soccer. His skill and adaptability have made him a valuable asset to the UAE national teams in both formats of the sport.

Mahmoud’s passion and dedication to soccer serve as an inspiration to the younger generation of Emirati athletes.

#7 Salmeen Al-Nuaimi

• 🏆 Sport(s): Football (Soccer)
• 🎂 Born in: 1987
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Gulf Cup Winner

Salmeen Al-Nuaimi, known for his strong defensive skills in Emirati football, has steadily become a key figure for both his club and national team. His resilience and commitment to the sport have made him a fan favorite.

Off the field, Salmeen’s sportsmanship and positive attitude have made him a role model for aspiring footballers in the UAE.

#8 Abdulla Belhoul

• 🏆 Sport(s): Skateboarding
• 🎂 Born in: 1995
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: First Emirati Skateboarder to attend the Tokyo Olympics

Abdulla Belhoul, a trailblazer for skateboarding in the UAE, captured hearts when he represented the country in the Tokyo Olympics. His skill and passion for the sport have inspired countless Emiratis to take up skateboarding.

Off the board, Abdulla has been an advocate for skateboarding culture and facilities in the UAE.

#9 Khalid Essa

• 🏆 Sport(s): Football (Soccer)
• 🎂 Born in: 1989
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: AFC Champions League Winner

Khalid Essa, a top goalkeeper in Emirati football, has cemented his status as one the best in the region through his terrific saves and calm demeanor. His performances have been pivotal for his club and the national team.

Essa remains a role model for young goalkeepers in the UAE, showcasing the importance of discipline and hard work.

#10 Seraj Al-Talimi

• 🏆 Sport(s): Jiu-Jitsu
• 🎂 Born in: 2000
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Represented UAE at 2021 Jiu-Jitsu World Championship

Seraj Al-Talimi, a multi-talented Emirati jiu-jitsu practitioner, has made waves in the martial arts world with his composed performances and dedication. His achievements have helped put the UAE on the global jiu-jitsu stage.

Off the mat, Seraj has encouraged the growth of jiu-jitsu as a sport within the UAE, motivating others to follow in his footsteps.

#11 Yousif Mirza

• 🏆 Sport(s): Road Cycling
• 🎂 Born in: 1988
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Asian Road Cycling Champion

Yousif Mirza, the UAE’s premier road cyclist, has brought immense pride to the country with his performances on the international stage. His tireless dedication and hard work have proven that Emirati athletes can excel in any sport.

Off the bike, Yousif has been a driving force behind promoting cycling culture and infrastructure in the UAE.

#12 Naser Al Akrafy

• 🏆 Sport(s): Racing (Camels)
• 🎂 Born in: N/A
• 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Numerous Camel Racing Championships

Naser Al Akrafy, a distinguished camel racer in the UAE, has showcased the rich heritage and tradition of the sport. His successes have earned him recognition nationwide and inspired younger generations to participate in this unique sport.

Off the track, Naser has been a tireless advocate for the preservation and promotion of camel racing in the UAE.

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