The Middle East: The New Frontier for Elite Transfers – Are You Ready?

The football world is shifting, and those who recognize the opportunity early will reap the rewards. Over the past two transfer windows, we have been at the forefront of this movement, strategically securing four high-profile transfers to the Middle East—a region that is rapidly becoming a global powerhouse.

The demand for top talent in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar is skyrocketing, and we have positioned ourselves as key facilitators in this evolving market. Our deep-rooted connections and exclusive insights provide access to opportunities that many only hear about when it’s too late.

Last summer, we orchestrated the move of Marouan Azarkan to Al Nasr SC in Dubai, setting the stage for what was to come.

Just a week later, thanks to our close ties with the club, we seamlessly placed Othmane Boussaid in a strategic role as Legal Counsel.

Then came the defining moment—Steven Bergwijn’s record-breaking transfer from Ajax AFC to Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. The highest outgoing deal from the Netherlands to the Middle East, this move reinforced the region’s growing influence and financial power.

Most recently, just last week, we played a pivotal role in Hakim Ziyech’s transfer from Galatasaray SK to Al Duhail SC, the dominant force in the Qatar League.

This isn’t just a trend—it’s a transformation. The Middle East is no longer a secondary destination for players; it is becoming a global sporting superpower. With the region hosting major events like Formula One, world-class boxing matches, and even creating its own rival golf league in LIV Golf, the scale of investment in sports is unprecedented. 

In football, the UAE has made significant strides, with Al Ain winning the AFC Champions League for the first time in over 20 years, marking a milestone for the country’s domestic league. 

Opportunities like these don’t wait. The question is: Will you be watching from the sidelines, or will you seize the moment?

Reach out now, and let’s discuss what’s next for you.

Best,

Patrick Poldervaart, Legal Counsel / FIFA Licensed Football Agent