Saudi Arabian football clubs are making global headlines in 2025 with high-profile signings, massive investments, and competitive performances. As the Saudi Pro League continues its meteoric rise, five clubs stand out for their rapid growth and ambition. This article explores the top 5 Saudi Arabian football clubs rising in 2025, their key achievements, and what makes them the future of football in the Middle East.
5. Al-Qadsiah: The Dark Horse of Saudi Football
Al-Qadsiah has shocked many by securing promotion to the Saudi Pro League in the 2024–25 season. The club has made headlines with bold signings such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Nacho Fernández, and goalkeeper Koen Casteels. With support from the Sports Boulevard Company, Al-Qadsiah is a fast-rising Saudi football club ready to challenge the traditional elites.
4. Al-Ittihad: Champions on the Rise
Al-Ittihad remains one of the top Saudi Arabian football clubs rising in both status and performance. With legends like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté anchoring the squad, they are pushing for success in both domestic and continental competitions. The Jeddah-based club, under PIF ownership, continues to shine following their 2022–23 Pro League title. Al-Ittihad is positioning itself as a global football powerhouse.
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3. Al-Ahli: A Resurgent Giant
Al-Ahli is leading the list of Saudi Arabian football clubs rising in 2025. After a brief spell in the second division, the club has made a dramatic comeback to the Saudi Pro League. With major signings like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy, and Allan Saint-Maximin, Al-Ahli is not just rising—it’s roaring. Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the club is focused on returning to its former glory and becoming a dominant force in Saudi football once again.
2. Al-Nassr: Ronaldo’s Revolution
Al-Nassr’s transformation began with the landmark signing of Cristiano Ronaldo, marking a turning point for Saudi Arabian football. With further additions like Sadio Mané, Marcelo Brozović, and Otávio, the Riyadh-based club has become a rising giant in Saudi football. Al-Nassr is competing fiercely in the Saudi Pro League and AFC Champions League, driving international attention toward Saudi football and establishing themselves as one of the top clubs to watch.
1. Al-Hilal: Consistent Continental Contenders
Al-Hilal is undoubtedly one of the most successful Saudi Arabian football clubs, and 2025 is no exception. Featuring international icons like Neymar and João Cancelo, Al-Hilal made waves by participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. With their reputation as Asia’s top club, they remain a major symbol of Saudi football’s rise. Their consistent performance makes them a beacon for the country’s ambitions in global football.
| Rank | Club Name | City | Key Signings/Players | Key Achievements | Backing/Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Al-Hilal | Riyadh | Neymar, João Cancelo, Ruben Neves | 2025 Club World Cup Qualifiers | Public Investment Fund (PIF) |
| 2 | Al-Nassr | Riyadh | Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané | Top Finish in Pro League, ACL Run | Public Investment Fund (PIF) |
| 3 | Al-Ahli | Jeddah | Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino | Return to Pro League with Momentum | Public Investment Fund (PIF) |
| 4 | Al-Ittihad | Jeddah | Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté | 2022–23 League Champions | Public Investment Fund (PIF) |
| 5 | Al-Qadsiah | Khobar | Aubameyang, Nacho, Casteels | Promoted in 2024–25 Season | Sports Boulevard Company |
What’s Powering the Rise of Saudi Football Clubs?
The rise of Saudi Arabian football clubs in 2025 can be attributed to several strategic developments:
- Massive PIF investments in football infrastructure and player signings
- Acquisition of global football talent to raise the league’s profile
- Increased focus on youth development and football academies
- Participation in international competitions like the Club World Cup
- Vision 2030’s support for sports as part of national growth
These Saudi Arabian football clubs are not just performing well—they are reshaping the sport in the region and attracting worldwide audiences.
The top 5 Saudi Arabian football clubs rising in 2025—Al-Ahli, Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, and Al-Qadsiah—are proving that Saudi football is in the middle of a golden era. With elite players, world-class backing, and ambitious goals, these clubs are taking the Saudi Pro League to global heights. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in football, expect these rising clubs to dominate headlines in the years to come.