Arabian Gulf League lands Emirates deal

Dubai-based airline Emirates has agreed a three-year commercial partnership with the Arabian Gulf League club football competition.

The deal is worth AED25m (€6.2m/$6.8m) and establishes Emirates as the official partner and airline of the league.

Itt is set to commence with Emirates benefiting from brand visibility and on-site advertising at the Arabian Gulf Super Cup, which kicks off the new season on August 15.

The agreement covers all 182 Arabian Gulf League matches, 45 Arabian Gulf Cup matches and 26 televised U21 League games. Along with in-game promotional opportunities, Emirates will be granted hospitality rights.

Additionally, digital and social media activations will be incorporated into the partnership across the Arabian Gulf League’s platforms, while Emirates will lead end-of-season trophy presentations.

Emirates' vast football portfolio includes its designation as the official airline and partner of the Asian Football Confederation, which includes sponsorship rights at the AFC Champions League, AFC Cup and AFC Challenge Cup tournaments.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline, said: “With our new partnership with the Arabian Gulf League, we will be in an even stronger position to add value to the UAE's professional league by capitalising on opportunities that will link local clubs with international football teams through focused collaboration.”