Dubai's Al Ahli Stadium opening in 1979

In the early 1970s Sheikh Rashid ordered four Sports Stadiums to be built for the benefit of "Dubai's Youth". Al Maktoum Stadium was the first to open followed by Al Ahli Stadium. Al Ahli Stadium was to become the home of the newly formed Al Ahli Sports Club from merging three smaller sports clubs. Al Ahli was primarily a soccer club in 1979 although today it provides for a wide range of sports and drama.

The stadium opening was celebrated with a soccer match against the UK's Ipswich Town Football Club. In 1979 Ipswich Town was a major force in UK Soccer and the current FA Cup Holders. This is the programme cover from Al Ahli Stadium's opening match.

From Pride of Ipswich

Stadium's Formal Opening

Dubai's Late Ruler His Highness Shaikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, then Crown Prince of Dubai inaugurated the new Al Ahli Club Stadium on January 16th 1979. The opening was not as elaborate as Al Maktoum Stadium's opening the previous year. Dubai Defense Force Band opened the proceedings.

Original Photo by Seabee

DDF Band leads the way

DDF's Band had come a long way since its formation in the early 1970s. They now made regular appearances at these major Dubai events. Public attendance was not as high as for the Al Maktoum Stadium opening the previous year.

Original Photo by Seabee

Traditional Dancing

Traditional Dancers became a feature of Dubai events in the 1970s. Modern technology now enabled them to perform in large venues such as Al Ahli Stadium

Original Photo by Seabee

The Match

Ipswich Town were at their peak in 1979. With Ipswich playing in unfamiliar surroundings plus a mid week flight to Dubai there was a chance Al Ahli could provide a surprise. Hopes rose when Al Ahli had held Ipswich to a draw at half time. In the second half Ipswich showed their class and experience to beat Al Ahli by 3 goals to nil.

Original Photo by Seabee