Omar Abdulrahman made his eagerly anticipated return to competitive action on Sunday night, with the Shabab Al Ahli playmaker introduced as a second-half substitute against Al Nasr.
Abdulrahman, 30, last played competitively in October last year, when he sustained a knee injury while representing Al Jazira in a UAE league match against Al Dhafra.
The UAE international, the 2016 Asian player of the year, required surgery and was then released in February by the Abu Dhabi club. He soon signed for Shabab Al Ahli, but has remained on the sidelines as the club enjoyed a fine conclusion to the season. The Dubai side, with manager Mahdi Ali back in charge, finished third in the table while also winning both the President’s Cup and the Arabian Gulf Cup.
Having been plagued by injury over the past few years, Abdulrahman came off the bench on Sunday in the 59th minute of the Adnoc Pro League encounter with Al Nasr at Al Maktoum Stadium, much to the delight of the spectators in attendance – irrespective of which team they supported.
The midfielder, who previously plied his trade with Al Ain and then briefly with Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, then helped create a golden opportunity for the away side, only for Yahya Al Ghassani to find the side-netting. At the time, the score was 1-0 to Shabab Al Ahli.
The match finished 1-1, with Nasr midfielder Toze scoring a penalty three minutes from time to esnure a share of the spoils. Iran midfielder Mehdi Ghayedi had put Shabab Al Ahli ahead with a brilliant curled effort just after the hour.
The result means Shabab Al Ahli remain third in the Adnoc Pro League after 10 rounds, with Al Nasr in fourth. Both teams have 17 points, meaning they sit seven behind leaders Al Ain.
What can victims do?
Always use only regulated platforms
Stop all transactions and communication on suspicion
Save all evidence (screenshots, chat logs, transaction IDs)
Report to local authorities
Warn others to prevent further harm
Courtesy: Crystal Intelligence
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Our legal consultant
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Iftar programme at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Established in 1998, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding was created with a vision to teach residents about the traditions and customs of the UAE. Its motto is ‘open doors, open minds’. All year-round, visitors can sign up for a traditional Emirati breakfast, lunch or dinner meal, as well as a range of walking tours, including ones to sites such as the Jumeirah Mosque or Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
Every year during Ramadan, an iftar programme is rolled out. This allows guests to break their fast with the centre’s presenters, visit a nearby mosque and observe their guides while they pray. These events last for about two hours and are open to the public, or can be booked for a private event.
Until the end of Ramadan, the iftar events take place from 7pm until 9pm, from Saturday to Thursday. Advanced booking is required.
For more details, email openminds@cultures.ae or visit www.cultures.ae
The biog
Favourite book: Animal Farm by George Orwell
Favourite music: Classical
Hobbies: Reading and writing
What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE
Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.
Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.
Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Supports heart health and reduces inflammation, especially for those who consume little fish.
