Omar Abdulrahman, UAE football legend, announces retirement at 34

Omar Abdulrahman, popularly known as ‘Amoory’, has officially announced his retirement from professional football after a distinguished career that spanned about 17 years.

At 34, Omar is regarded as one of the most talented footballers to emerge from the UAE and, for years, was among the most talked-about players in Asia. The dynamic playmaker steered Al Ain ‘The Boss’ to the 2016 AFC Champions League final and guided the UAE into the final round of qualifiers for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Rise to stardom

Born in Saudi Arabia to Yemeni parents, Omar joined Al Ain’s academy as a teenager, where his flair, vision, and extraordinary technique quickly made him one of the UAE’s brightest prospects.

With heartfelt gratitude, the attacking midfielder – known for his ability to turn a match with a single touch – shared his decision to hang up his boots through a social media post, marking the end of a journey that inspired countless fans across the region and beyond.

“Today, with love and gratitude, I announce my retirement from football — after a beautiful journey that lasted for years, full of challenges and achievements. It was a career built through effort and the support of loyal people,” the 2016 AFC Player of the Year wrote.

A golden era with Al Ain

During his decade-long spell with Al Ain, Omar helped ‘The Boss’ to multiple UAE Pro League titles, the President’s Cup, and Super Cup honours. The club’s talisman expressed his deep appreciation to Al Ain Club Chairman, senior management, and the loyal Ainawi fans – as supporters of the club are affectionately known.

Hero for club and country

On the international stage, Omar was instrumental in the UAE’s triumph at the 2013 Gulf Cup, where he was named the tournament’s best player, and he again dazzled during the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, helping the team secure a third-place finish – the country’s best result on foreign soil.

His magical 2016 campaign, during which he led Al Ain to the AFC Champions League final, earned him the coveted AFC Player of the Year award – a rare feat for an Emirati player.

Admired beyond borders

Omar’s artistry also drew global attention. In 2012, English Premier League champions Manchester City invited him for a trial, highlighting his reputation as one of Asia’s most gifted footballers.

Beyond Al Ain, Omar also had brief stints with Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al Hilal and UAE champions Al Jazira, Shabab Al Ahli, and Al Wasl.

“I cherish every moment I spent with the clubs I represented. Each club holds a special place in my heart and left its own mark on my career,” he wrote.

A legacy that will endure

In his farewell message, Omar expressed heartfelt thanks to his loyal fans, describing them as his “greatest support and motivation.”

“Your love and encouragement were the secret behind my perseverance and dedication. Today, I close this beautiful chapter of my life and begin a new journey. Thank you to everyone who was part of this story.”

As he steps away from the pitch, the UAE’s football community will watch with keen interest to see what comes next for ‘Amoory’ – whether in coaching, mentorship, or football development.