Al Sadd Sports Club – The Pride of Qatar Football
Founded on October 21, 1969, Al Sadd Sports Club stands as one of Qatar’s most successful and historic football institutions. Based in Al Sadd district, Doha, this club has not only defined Qatari football excellence but also brought global recognition to the region. Known as “The Wolves,” Al Sadd SC has lifted the Qatar Stars League title a record 14 times and remains a cornerstone of Qatari sports culture.
From their iconic black and white logo, redesigned in 2019 to reflect a modern minimalistic style, to their passionate fanbase and high-profile players, Al Sadd continues to inspire new generations of football enthusiasts across Qatar and the Middle East.
Al Sadd Qatar Location and Overview
Al Sadd is a vibrant district in Doha, Qatar, known for its lively mix of residential, commercial, and sporting zones.
The Al Sadd SC stadium, officially known as the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, is located in this district. The area is easily accessible via the Al Sadd Metro Station (Gold Line), making it a central hub for football fans and visitors.
- Location: Al Sadd, Doha, Qatar
- Stadium: Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium
- Capacity: 15,000 spectators
- Founded: 1969
- Leagues: Qatar Stars League, AFC Champions League, Amir Cup, Arab Club Champions Cup
- Website: www.al-saddclub.com
- Contact: 44448080 | alsadd@msy.gov.qa
Visitors can explore nearby landmarks, restaurants, hotels, and gyms around Al Sadd Doha, making it one of the most attractive neighborhoods for residents and tourists alike.
History and Achievements
Al Sadd SC was founded by a group of determined students who dreamed of creating a competitive football team representing Qatar’s growing sports ambitions. Their perseverance paid off — Al Sadd quickly rose through the ranks to dominate domestic football.
Major Achievements:
- 14× Qatar Stars League Titles (record)
- 2× AFC Champions League Titles
- Multiple Amir Cups and Qatar Cups
- Historic AFC Champions League Win (1989 & 2011)
The club’s philosophy has always focused on sportsmanship, unity, and excellence. Their success in local and continental tournaments highlights their strategic development and commitment to nurturing talent.
Al Sadd SC Squad 2025–2026 (Current Season)
With a squad value of €71.8 million, Al Sadd remains one of the most valuable teams in the Qatar Stars League.
Here’s a look at the star players leading the charge this season:
| Player | Position | Age | Market Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mohamed Camara | Defensive Midfield | 25 | €14.00m |
| Claudinho | Attacking Midfield | 28 | €15.00m |
| Akram Afif | Left Winger | 28 | €8.00m |
| Roberto Firmino | Centre-Forward | 34 | €5.00m |
| Rafa Mujica | Centre-Forward | 26 | €7.50m |
| Youcef Atal | Right-Back | 29 | €3.00m |
| Paulo Otávio | Left-Back | 30 | €3.00m |
| Romain Saïss | Centre-Back | 35 | €1.80m |
Goalkeepers:
- Meshaal Barsham (27) – €850k
- Saad Al-Sheeb (35) – €100k
National Representation:
Al Sadd boasts 14 players who represent Qatar’s national football team, a testament to the club’s world-class training and coaching standards.
Recent Transfers & Signings
Al Sadd has made significant moves in the 2025–2026 transfer window to strengthen its lineup.
Top Arrivals:
- Roberto Firmino (Centre-Forward) – €7.00m
- Agustín Soria (Central Midfield) – €3.22m
- Pau Prim (Defensive Midfield) – Free Transfer
Top Departures:
- Cristo – Loan Transfer
- Adam Ounas – Free Transfer
- Abdessamed Bounacer – Loan Transfer
These changes reflect Al Sadd’s ongoing strategy to balance experience with youth, focusing on building a sustainable yet competitive squad.
Stadium: Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium
The Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, inaugurated in 1974, serves as Al Sadd’s home ground. With a seating capacity of 15,000, it stands as one of Qatar’s most technologically advanced sports venues.
The stadium hosts Qatar Stars League matches, AFC Champions League games, and national team fixtures. It has modern facilities, including hospitality suites, fan zones, and a museum celebrating Al Sadd’s history.
Fixtures and Match Highlights (2025–2026 Season)
Recent Results:
- Al Sadd 1–1 Sharjah (AFC Champions League)
- Al Sadd 0–0 Al Duhail (Doha Bank Stars League)
- Al Sadd 2–2 Al Wakrah (QSL)
- Al Hilal 3–1 Al Sadd (Champions League Elite)
Upcoming Matches:
- Al Sadd vs Al Arabi – Oct 25, 2025, 7:30 PM (Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium)
- Al Sadd vs Al Rayyan – Oct 30, 2025, 7:30 PM
League Standings:
| Pos | Club | P | W | D | L | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Al Rayyan | 6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 10 |
| 6 | Al Duhail | 6 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 8 |
| **7 | Al Sadd | 6 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 8 |
| 8 | Umm Salal | 6 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 6 |
Despite a balanced start, Al Sadd SC aims to make a comeback in both the Qatar Stars League and AFC Champions League, with new coach Sergio Alegre bringing tactical energy to the squad.
Al Sadd Players’ Salaries and Market Value
As of 2025:
- Total Market Value: €71.8 million
- Average Player Age: 28.1 years
- Foreign Players: 10 (37%)
- National Players: 14
- Highest Valued Player: Claudinho – €15.00 million
Top earners include:
- Akram Afif – €8 million
- Roberto Firmino – €5 million
- Rafa Mujica – €7.5 million
Al Sadd Football Academy & Youth Development
The Al Sadd Football Academy is one of Qatar’s most prestigious youth training institutions. It focuses on developing homegrown talent through world-class facilities, UEFA-certified coaches, and structured programs.
- Academy Fees: Vary by age category
- Programs: Beginner to Elite levels
- Location: Al Sadd Training Center, Doha
The academy has produced several players who went on to represent both Al Sadd SC and the Qatar National Team.
Accessibility: Al Sadd Metro Station and Nearby Facilities
The Al Sadd Metro Station provides direct access to the stadium and surrounding attractions.
Nearby you’ll find:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Al Sadd Doha
- Central Inn Hotel & Suites
- Beauty salons and gyms
- Restaurants and cafes
- Shopping outlets like Al Sadd Store
This connectivity makes it ideal for fans traveling from across Doha or Hamad International Airport.
The Al Sadd Store
Fans can visit the official Al Sadd Store to purchase:
- Club jerseys & training kits
- Accessories and souvenirs
- Limited edition merchandise
Online purchases are available through the official Al Sadd website.
Al Sadd in International Competitions
Al Sadd SC continues to represent Qatar on the Asian and global stage through consistent appearances in:
- AFC Champions League Elite
- Arab Club Champions Cup
- Gulf Club Championships
Their 2011 AFC Champions League victory remains one of the most iconic moments in Qatari football history.
Club History: From Humble Beginnings to Qatari Dominance
Founded in 1969, Al Sadd SC quickly grew from a small neighborhood team to Qatar’s most decorated football club. Their early success came from passion, discipline, and strong leadership — values that continue to define the club today.
Key Milestones
- 1969: Club establishment in Doha
- 1974: First Emir of Qatar Cup victory
- 1980s: Expansion of facilities and rise in popularity
- 1990s–2000s: Dominance in Qatari League & Asian tournaments
- 2011: Won AFC Champions League – making Al Sadd the best club in Asia that year
- 2020s: Continued success in Qatar Stars League and international tournaments
Al Sadd’s reputation as the “Pride of Qatar” is not just built on trophies — it’s about legacy. The club has produced several top Qatari players who have represented the nation on global stages, including the FIFA World Cup.
Players and Squad Strength
Al Sadd has been home to some of Qatar’s most talented players and international stars. The team combines young Qatari talents with experienced foreign professionals, creating a balanced and competitive squad.
Notable Players (Past & Present)
- Hassan Al-Haydos (Captain): A Qatari national hero and attacking leader.
- Akram Afif: Known for his incredible pace and goal-scoring abilities.
- Baghdad Bounedjah: One of the top goal-scorers in Asia.
- Santi Cazorla: Former Arsenal and Spain midfielder who joined Al Sadd in 2020.
- Xavi Hernandez: Former Barcelona captain and Al Sadd coach (2019–2021).
Each player contributes to the club’s rich legacy, inspiring young Qataris to pursue football professionally. The club’s youth academy is one of the best in the country, focusing on developing future stars with international-level training.
Market Value and Financial Power
As of 2025, Al Sadd SC has a market value exceeding €25 million, making it one of the most valuable clubs in Asia. The club’s revenue comes from:
- Sponsorships and broadcasting rights
- Ticket sales and merchandise
- Player transfers
- Partnerships with international clubs
This financial strength enables Al Sadd to attract top-tier players, invest in youth academies, and maintain world-class facilities. The club’s management also ensures sustainability, aligning with Qatar’s Vision 2030 goals for sports development.
Fixtures, Matches, and Performance
Al Sadd SC competes in the Qatar Stars League (QSL), the nation’s top football division, alongside clubs like Al Duhail, Al Arabi, and Al Rayyan.
Recent Highlights:
- Qatar Stars League Champion (multiple times)
- Qatar Cup Winner 2023–24 season
- AFC Champions League participant 2024–25
Fans can check the club’s official website or QSL app for live fixtures, ticket bookings, and results. Matches are often scheduled at evening hours (6–9 PM) to suit local audiences and family visitors.
Tickets and Match Day Experience
Watching a match at Al Sadd Stadium is more than just football — it’s an event. Ticket prices are affordable, ranging between QR 20–100, depending on the seat category and match importance.
Ticket Benefits:
- Instant online booking
- QR code entry
- Family and VIP seating zones
- On-site food courts and souvenir shops
Fans often gather early to enjoy food stalls, club shops, and entertainment outside the stadium. With metro access, ample parking, and friendly staff, Al Sadd offers a safe and enjoyable match-day environment.
Getting There – Al Sadd Metro Station & Transportation
Al Sadd Metro Station, located on the Gold Line, is the most convenient way to reach the stadium. From the station, the walk to the main gate takes just 10–12 minutes.
Alternative options include:
- Karwa Taxis or Uber/Careem rides
- Doha public buses
- Private cars (parking available nearby)
Travelers from Hamad International Airport can reach Al Sadd in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect stop for tourists exploring Doha.
Nearby Attractions and Hotels
Whether you’re visiting Al Sadd for a match or sightseeing, the district offers plenty of attractions nearby:
Popular Spots Around Al Sadd:
- Villaggio Mall – A Venetian-style shopping mall with indoor canals.
- Aspire Park – One of Doha’s most beautiful green spaces.
- Khalifa International Stadium – Another major sports venue.
- Souq Waqif – A traditional Qatari market for food and crafts.
- Doha Corniche – A scenic seaside promenade just 15 minutes away.
Nearby Hotels:
- Millennium Hotel Doha
- Wyndham Grand Regency Doha
- La Cigale Hotel
- Al Sadd Suites Hotel
These hotels offer comfort and accessibility, catering to fans and families visiting the area.
Awards and Achievements
Al Sadd’s trophy cabinet is one of the largest in Asia.
Major Titles:
- AFC Champions League: 2 titles
- Qatar Stars League: 15+ titles
- Emir of Qatar Cup: 18 titles
- Crown Prince Cup: Multiple wins
- Arab Club Champions Cup: 1 win
The club’s commitment to excellence has made it a symbol of national pride and an inspiration for future generations.
Al Sadd’s Role in Qatar’s Football Future
As Qatar continues to rise as a global football destination, especially after hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, Al Sadd remains a central part of this transformation. The club contributes to:
- Youth training and development
- Sports innovation
- Community engagement
- Global football partnerships
With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced coaching, and a strong fan base, Al Sadd SC represents the spirit of Qatari football — tradition, unity, and ambition.
Final Thoughts
From its humble beginnings in 1969 to becoming one of Asia’s most successful clubs, Al Sadd Sports Club stands as a symbol of Qatar’s football excellence. With passionate fans, talented players, and a legacy of victories, it continues to dominate both local and continental competitions.
Whether you’re a football enthusiast, a tourist in Doha, or a local resident looking for weekend excitement — a visit to Al Sadd SC Stadium is a must.
Experience world-class football, Qatari hospitality, and the thrill of the game — all in one place.
