The Saudi Women’s Premier League is gaining momentum not only for its competitive matches but also for its broader social impact. By promoting the sport among Saudi women, the league is aligned with the country’s Vision 2030 reforms, which seek to increase female participation in all sectors, including sports. As the league continues to evolve, its influence on young girls and aspiring athletes has grown significantly, with more schools and grassroots programs incorporating football into their curricula.
This season will feature 90 matches spread over 18 weeks, with teams competing for both pride and a lucrative prize pool. Each match promises excitement as clubs have brought in talented players from all corners of the globe. Saudi Arabia’s General Sports Authority (GSA) has been at the forefront of promoting this league, providing support and investing in the necessary infrastructure to ensure the league’s success.
The 10 teams participating in the 2024-25 season include reigning champions Al Nassr, who are aiming to defend their title. Their dominance in the last season has put them in the spotlight, but this year will be no easy task, with other clubs like Al Hilal and Al Ittihad also strengthening their squads during the transfer window. With players coming from countries as diverse as Brazil, the United States, and Nigeria, the competition is set to deliver world-class football.
The international representation in the Saudi Women’s Premier League underscores its growing stature. Among the high-profile signings for this season is Brazilian midfielder Gabriela Zanotti, who has brought her experience from top-tier leagues in Europe. Nigerian forward Asisat Oshoala is another key player to watch, having joined Al Ittihad to bolster their attacking options. The influx of foreign talent is not only raising the competitive level of the league but also creating opportunities for Saudi players to learn from some of the best in the world.
The presence of foreign players is a crucial component in the league’s strategy to elevate the quality of women’s football in Saudi Arabia. Many of these international stars bring valuable experience from established leagues such as the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the U.S. or the Women’s Super League (WSL) in England. Their participation is expected to attract more viewers, both domestically and internationally, shining a spotlight on the talent emerging from the kingdom.
In addition to international talent, the Saudi Women’s Premier League is also focusing on the development of local players. The league’s long-term goal is to nurture Saudi talent capable of competing at the highest levels. Players like Sarah Khaled, who has become one of the stars of the national team, are a testament to the league’s role in fostering homegrown athletes. Khaled, who plays for Al Nassr, will be one of the key figures this season as she leads her team in their quest for back-to-back championships.
Efforts to expand the reach of women’s football in Saudi Arabia extend beyond the top-flight league. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has implemented several initiatives aimed at boosting grassroots football, encouraging more girls to take up the sport from an early age. School football programs, talent identification initiatives, and regional tournaments are all part of the strategy to build a robust talent pipeline for the future.
This season’s "#SeeUsPlay" campaign is expected to amplify the visibility of the league and inspire more young girls across the kingdom. The campaign taps into the growing interest in sports and is designed to highlight the athletic achievements of women, breaking down cultural barriers in the process. With more coverage on television and social media, the league’s organizers hope to see a surge in fan engagement, both in terms of viewership and participation at the grassroots level.
Another key aspect of the league’s success is the investment in infrastructure and facilities. Stadiums across Saudi Arabia have been upgraded to accommodate women’s matches, and more resources are being allocated to ensure that the teams have access to top-notch training facilities. This focus on development is not only benefiting the current crop of players but is also laying the groundwork for the next generation of football stars.