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FIFA disciplinary action: UAE official, Qatari player, and Saudi federation fined after World Cup qualifiers

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Things got heated during the UAE vs Qatar World Cup qualifier, and FIFA isn’t letting it slide.

Following the fiery 2026 World Cup qualifier on October 14, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has announced a series of suspensions and fines targeting officials and players from both sides.

Matar Obaid Saeed Mesfer Al Dhaheri, supervisor of the UAE national team, has been hit with a 16-match suspension and a 10,000 Swiss franc fine (Dh45,500) after being found guilty of unsporting behaviour and physical assault against the match referee.

Two-match ban for Qatar

Over on the Qatari side, Tarek Salman has received a two-match ban and a 5,000 Swiss franc fine (Dh22,750) for dangerous play during the same match.

The match itself ended in a 2–1 win for Qatar, securing their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the UAE continues its campaign with crucial playoff matches against Iraq to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Breach of disciplinary code

In a separate decision, FIFA fined the Saudi Arabian Football Federation 11,500 Swiss francs for breaches of its disciplinary code after fans lit fireworks during Saudi Arabia’s 0–0 draw with Iraq, a result that booked Saudi Arabia’s place in the tournament.

For context, the UAE Football Association has also been enforcing stricter discipline internally. Earlier this year, it suspended players Khalid Al Dhanhani and Sultan Adel for five matches each and fined them Dh500,000 for misconduct during a national team camp.

Together, these measures underline the zero-tolerance stance of FIFA and the UAE FA when it comes to professionalism and player conduct during critical World Cup qualifying stages.

Source: KT/GN

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Rio Ferdinand house for sale: Man Utd legend puts Kent mansion on market after Dubai move

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Rio Ferdinand may be done with UK living, for now.

The former Manchester United star, 47, has listed his seven-bedroom Kent mansion for £10.5 million (Dh52 million), hinting his move to Dubai is permanent.

Set in the exclusive Farnborough Park estate, the 12,500 sq ft home features landscaped grounds, a private gym, grand reception spaces, and a luxury master suite with dual dressing rooms. He bought it in 2008 for around £2.7 million, meaning a potential £8 million profit, though tax could apply depending on residency status.

Ferdinand moved to Dubai last year with his wife Kate and their children. They are now living in a luxury villa in Al Barari.

He has been candid about the move, citing more family time, an improved lifestyle, and the appeal of a fresh start. “The lifestyle, safety and weather, it just works for us,” Ferdinand said in the report.

He’s not alone. Vincent Kompany is also reportedly selling his UK home, as more football names rethink where they’re based.

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Big game tonight: Expect traffic delays around Dubai’s Al Wasl Club

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has alerted motorists to expected traffic delays on key roads on Wednesday, April 22, due to the AFC Champions League 2 match taking place at Al Wasl Club.

The fixture between Qatar’s Al Ahli and Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia is part of the ongoing AFC Champions League 2, Asia’s second-tier continental competition, which has been drawing strong crowds across the region. Matches at this stage of the tournament typically attract large numbers of fans, especially when hosted in major cities like Dubai, leading to increased traffic around stadium zones.

Authorities expect congestion on roads leading to and around the stadium, particularly during pre-match and post-match hours, as supporters head to watch the game live.

Motorists are advised to plan their journeys, allow extra travel time, and consider alternative routes to avoid delays.

To help ease congestion, the RTA confirmed that additional parking spaces will be available behind the stadium, offering more options for those attending the match.

The advisory is part of ongoing efforts to manage traffic during major sporting events and ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for residents and visitors across Dubai.

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Free 5KM run in Abu Ahabi, but expect road closures

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If you’re driving around Abu Dhabi this weekend, you might want to plan, because several key roads are set to close.

The Run for the Nation 5km race is taking over Wahat Al Karama this Saturday, bringing together the community for a morning of fitness and fun.

But it also means temporary traffic disruptions you should know about.

Here’s what’s happening
Organised by Abu Dhabi Sports Council in partnership with the Zayed Charity Run, the event kicks off at 8am, and it’s completely free to join.

To keep runners safe, road closures will be in place from 5am to 10am around the area.
There are additional lane closures on E20 due to ongoing infrastructure works:

• Right lane towards Abu Dhabi closed from April 17 (2pm)- April 20 (5am)
• Entry & exit from Al Fursan Street closed from April 18-April 19

Expect delays around Al Fursan Street and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20).

What should motorists do
• Leave earlier than usual
• Follow diversion signs
• Avoid the area if possible during peak hours

While traffic may slow things down, the event is all about community, fitness, and bringing people together, a big win for Abu Dhabi’s active lifestyle push.

So whether you’re running or just commuting, be ready, plan smart, and stay moving.

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