Dubai: After a 15-day break, the First Division league resumes today with six matches in the 20th stage of the season.
The UAE FA decided to play the last three stages on the same day and the same time so that they can prevent any match-fixing that could happen between some teams who can benefit from their opponents' results.
The title race has been limited to defending champions Al Wahda (41 points) and Al Ahli (38).
Al Wahda play their last league match at home against relegated Diba Al Hesn today and Al Ahli have to fight hard to win the points when they clash in an away match against Sharjah.
At the other end of the table, Dibba Al Hesn have been relegated and are waiting for one of either Emirates club or Bani Yas to accompany them to the second division.
Today's matches, all kick offs at 7:40 pm, teams points in brackets:
Al Wahda (41) v Dibba Al Hesn (8).
The defending champions will be looking for a big win against relegated Dibba Al Hesn to say goodbye to their supporters as it will be the last match at home.
Al Wahda's spirits are high after beating Al Karama of Syria in the Asian Champions league.
Sharjah (27) v Al Ahli (38)
The match is of great importance for Al Ahli who will be chasing Al Wahda for the league title. Uruguayan midfielder Martin Baroudi returns to the Al Ahli squad after serving a three-match suspension and Salim Kham also returns following an injury. Sharjah will be looking for a win to better their position in the standings.
Al Wasl (26) v Al Jazira (36).
Al Wasl were awarded the points against Al Nasr despite losing the match 4-2 due to Al Nasr fielding a suspended player.
Al Jazira are looking to win the three points to stay in the title hunt.
Al Shaab (23) v Al Ain (34)
Al Ain's defeat in the 19th stage against Al Shabab threw them out of the title race.
Al Ain will be looking to win the last three matches to clinch the second spot.
Al Shaab after escaping relegation will also be looking to stay in a good position at the middle of the table.
Bani Yas (13) v Al Nasr (26).
Al Nasr dropped to seventh after the FA deducted three points from them despite beating Al Wasl 4-2 after fielding a suspended player. The match is the last chance for Bani Yas to revive hope if they are to stay in the first division.
Al Shabab (33) v Emirates (16).
Al Shabab are the most improved club in the first division in the current season.
They are fifth and are looking to finish the season on a high. The two Iranians, Mob'ali and Awlady, along with Salim Sa'ad, have been in fine form.
Emirates have to win today's match and the remaining two matches to escape relegation.
