الرمس يعود إلى مسابقات كرة القدم عبر «الدرجة الثانية»

Al Rams FC Stages Comeback After Financial Crisis Forces League Withdrawal

Al Rams Football Club is returning to competitive UAE football after a year-long absence, securing new Kuwaiti-Portuguese investment backing to rejoin the second division. The club's comeback marks a rare success story in Middle Eastern football, where financial difficulties often spell permanent closure for smaller clubs.

From Financial Collapse to Fresh Investment

Al Rams withdrew from UAE football competitions in 2023 due to severe financial difficulties, triggering automatic relegation and substantial fines from the football federation. The withdrawal highlighted the precarious financial position of many regional clubs operating outside the wealthy top-tier leagues.

The club has now secured backing from an investment firm with Kuwaiti-Portuguese origins, providing the financial foundation needed to resume operations. Salem Sultan Al Darmaki, the club's board chairman, outlined ambitious plans to build a competitive squad capable of eventually reaching the UAE Pro League.

Second Division Return Strategy

Al Rams will compete in a 15-team second division dominated by corporate-backed clubs, including United, Gulf United, Baniyas, and Horsemen of Spain. The division also features Team 365, last season's third division champions, creating a competitive environment for the returning club.

This corporate-heavy composition reflects broader trends in Gulf football, where traditional community clubs increasingly rely on business partnerships to survive. The UAE's football structure mirrors developments in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where private investment has become essential for club sustainability.

Regional Context and Market Implications

Al Rams' revival comes as Gulf states continue professionalizing their domestic leagues to support national team development and attract international attention. The UAE's multi-tier system provides a pathway for investment-backed clubs to climb divisions, similar to models in European football.

The Kuwaiti-Portuguese investment partnership represents growing cross-border collaboration in Middle Eastern sports. Portuguese football expertise, combined with Gulf capital, has proven successful in other regional markets, particularly in developing youth academies and coaching infrastructure.

Long-term Prospects

While promotion to the Pro League remains the stated goal, Al Rams faces significant challenges. The top division requires substantial ongoing investment to compete with established clubs backed by major corporations and government entities. Success will depend on the new investors' commitment to multi-year development rather than short-term results.

The club's return nonetheless demonstrates that well-structured investment can revive struggling football institutions in the region, potentially encouraging similar rescue efforts for other financially distressed clubs across the Gulf states.