UAE clubs will have five places in Asian continental competitions from the 2026/27 season after the Asian Football Confederation approved an expanded club format.
The new allocation gives the UAE three direct places in the AFC Champions League Elite, one place in the qualifying play-offs, and one direct place in AFC Champions League Two.
It is a significant increase for UAE football, giving Pro League clubs a wider route into Asian competition from next season.
The AFC Champions League Elite will grow from 24 to 32 teams for the 2026/27 campaign, which is due to begin in September.
The league stage will also change. West Asia and East Asia will each have 16 teams, up from 12 per region in the current format.
The top eight teams from each region will move into the knockout rounds.
Saudi Arabia and Japan will each receive six continental places. Saudi clubs will have three direct AFC Champions League Elite spots, two play-off places, and one direct AFC Champions League Two place.
Qatar will have three direct AFC Champions League Elite places and one AFC Champions League Two place.
For UAE clubs, the decision adds extra weight to the domestic season. More league positions will now carry continental value, while the play-off route gives another club a chance to reach Asia’s top club competition.
The AFC Professional Football Committee confirmed the changes as part of its wider update to club competitions for the new season.
