Omar Al Ali

Omar Al Ali's career is defined by a series of firsts and steady progression through the ranks of Asian football officiating. His graduation from the AFC Future Referees Project in 2014 marked him as one of the continent's promising officials, and he fulfilled that promise by earning his FIFA badge just a year later. For over a decade, he has been a trusted referee in the AFC Champions League, handling high-pressure knockout matches with composure.His selection for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was a landmark moment for Emirati football, as he became the first referee from the UAE to officiate at the tournament. His debut match, New Zealand vs Egypt, was a tense Group G fixture, and his performance drew praise from observers for its control and fairness. This achievement cements his place as a pioneer for Gulf referees and a respected figure in international football.