The UAE Rugby Federation has approved two new member clubs and confirmed team promotions as planning starts for the new season.
The decisions were made at the federation’s General Assembly meeting for clubs, held at Novotel Suites Avenue Dubai Al Barsha.
A total of 35 attendees represented 17 member clubs. The meeting was chaired by Hazem Hassan, acting chief executive of the UAE Rugby Federation. Jacques Benade, the federation’s high performance and national teams manager, also attended.
Dubai Knights RFC – New UAERF Member club for 2026
Dubai Tuskers RFC – New UAERF Member club for 2026
Dubai Knights, chaired by Dr Abdulrahman Kazim, were approved as a new member club. Dubai Tuskers, who represent the Sri Lankan community, were also ratified.
Both clubs have been cleared to take part in league competitions in the coming season.
The assembly also approved the promotion of Shaheen Club and UUDS Tuskers Club to the Premier League. Barrelhouse Club were approved for the First Division.
The release did not confirm fixtures, final league structures or the full list of teams for each division.
Several reports were presented during the meeting, covering refereeing, national teams, development, medical standards and club competitions.
Eugene Deegan presented the Referees Committee report. Benade delivered the high performance and national teams report. George Cliffe presented the development and training report, while Cecile de Scally covered the Medical Committee update.
Rocco de Bruyn, chairman of Rugby Clubs Management, presented the end-of-season report for clubs and competitions.
Mohamed Sultan Al Zaabi, secretary-general of the UAE Rugby Federation, said the decisions were aimed at growing the participation and improving the competition structure across the country.
