Egyptian international Ramy Rabia has completed a move to Al Ain, the UAE’s most decorated football club, following the expiration of his contract with Al Ahly.
The 31-year-old centre-back joins the Gulf Pro League side as a free agent, bringing an end to a long and decorated spell with Al Ahly, where he amassed 337 appearances and became one of the club’s most consistent defensive figures over more than a decade.
Al Ain confirmed Rabia’s arrival in an official announcement, marking a significant addition to their backline ahead of a busy competitive calendar that includes participation in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup.
The veteran defender, who previously spent time in Europe with Sporting CP in Portugal, now embarks on a fresh chapter in his career.
Speaking shortly after his signing, Rabia shared his excitement about the move and looked ahead to representing his new club on the global stage.
“This will be my seventh Club World Cup, and it’s a special feeling,” he said. “The new format is more demanding.
The group stage matches will be tougher, unlike before when you could reach the final rounds after a few matches. Now you have to go match by match and give everything.”
Rabia’s extensive experience in international club competitions is seen as a valuable asset for Al Ain, who continue to strengthen their squad with an eye on regional dominance and global recognition.
His leadership and familiarity with high-pressure fixtures are expected to provide both stability and insight to a side already known for its ambition.
During his time with Al Ahly, Rabia won multiple domestic titles and continental honours, including several CAF Champions League titles.
His presence in six previous editions of the FIFA Club World Cup reflects both his longevity and the consistency of his former club’s continental success.
Al Ain’s acquisition of Rabia also reflects the club’s growing emphasis on reinforcing its squad with seasoned internationals.
The Emirati giants have long been a dominant force in Middle Eastern football and are positioning themselves to be even more competitive in the evolving landscape of global tournaments.
Though the terms of Rabia’s contract were not disclosed, the move comes at a critical juncture in both the player’s career and Al Ain’s strategic planning.
At 31, Rabia brings with him not only experience but also a hunger for new challenges, as he transitions from the Egyptian Premier League to one of the Gulf region’s most competitive sides.
Al Ain will be hopeful that Rabia’s arrival can contribute to a successful campaign both domestically and abroad, particularly as they prepare for the demands of the new Club World Cup format, which is expected to offer stiffer competition than in previous years.
With his move now complete, Rabia becomes the latest in a line of high-profile signings in the region, as Gulf clubs continue to attract experienced international talent in preparation for increasingly competitive continental and global tournaments.
تدخلاته دائمًا في الوقت الحاسم 🫵🟣
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— نادي العين (@alainfcae) June 2, 2025
