Five years ago, Saudi Arabia restricted women from playing sports publicly. Today, a growing number of female players compete at professional levels, appear on television, and contribute to a broader shift in society. Amnesty International notes that being a woman in Saudi Arabia has historically entailed fewer rights and a system of male guardianship, yet the country is investing in women’s football and even pursuing hosting a Women’s World Cup. Catalan coach Ana Junyent, who recently took the helm of Al-Riyadh after guiding Eibar in the F League, is among the first Spanish professionals coaching within the Saudi women’s league, reflecting a changing coaching landscape.
“I said no at first,” a Spanish outlet reported, quoting Soraya Chaoui, the Barcelona Women’s Football School organizer, who helped shape Junyent’s understanding of the country. The coach recalls that his perspective shifted after a visit and conversations that outlined how football operates in Saudi Arabia. Three months into the experience, his impression diverged significantly from his initial assumptions, illustrating how firsthand exposure can reshape views.
From untrained audiences to televised matches
Women’s football in Saudi Arabia has only been possible for five years, with the national league turning professional two years ago. The sport is a central pillar of Vision 2030, the government plan aimed at integrating Saudi Arabia with the global economy and society through openness in social and economic policy. For Saudi players, football represents a dream realized; many once denied the chance to compete now find themselves on national broadcasts. Despite ongoing contract gaps for some players, the league’s base net salary is around 10,000 riyals per month (about 2,450 euros), while comparable players in Spain have secured higher minimum salaries following a recent strike. Acknowledging these gaps, observers note that momentum is building and standards are rising.
One interviewee mentions not yet noticing every game broadcast behind the scenes, but confirms that matches are played in stadiums shared with men’s teams and are televised. Attendance remains modest, with roughly 200–400 spectators per game. There is no audience segregation by gender in the stands, and fans of both genders attend together. While many women still wear veils, a growing number choose less restrictive attire, reflecting evolving cultural norms.
Saudi Arabia’s balancing act: celebrating progress while addressing rights concerns
Currently, seven international players can be registered across the teams, a figure that may grow as development continues. The overall level of the league is improving, but differences between domestic players and international arrivals remain pronounced. Coaches emphasize the long road ahead in terms of coordination, cognitive development, and tactical understanding. Nevertheless, players and staff display strong motivation and a genuine interest in advancing the sport, making coaching efforts feel worthwhile and rewarding.
Family pressures and the pace of cultural change
For some players, the path is not easy. Family expectations can restrict participation in sports or appearances on social media and television. Yet those barriers are gradually loosening. Observers note that societal norms can shift quickly as more families become accustomed to public female participation in sports. A familiar view from one coach is that Saudi Arabia has transformed markedly in five years, with a culture and business environment evolving toward openness and modern practices, even if it still resembles past points in history in certain respects. The coaching staff describes a welcoming reception and a shared sense of purpose in contributing to the country’s rapid development. This includes aspirations to participate in top-tier leagues and to expand opportunities for women in football and beyond.
The Catalan coach, who spent nine years with Barcelona and later coached other clubs, has previously led men’s teams and now contends with the reality that the First Division for women in Saudi Arabia is still in its early stages. He notes a scarcity of female coaches in the top tiers and highlights the broader pattern of many coaches gaining experience abroad. He adds that, despite challenges, there is value in gender-diverse leadership, and leadership by women could bring fresh perspectives to the game in Saudi Arabia.