Saudi Arabia Returns to International Rugby After 7 Years

Saudi Arabia is bringing back international rugby after a seven-year break, with its men's team set to face Qatar on May 15, 2026. The match represents the biggest milestone yet in the Kingdom's rapid sporting evolution.

While rugby has existed in Saudi Arabia for decades through expat communities, the sport has exploded since new leadership took over in 2023. Under President Ali Al Dajani, Saudi Rugby has transformed from a small operation into a nationwide movement touching every corner of the Kingdom.

The growth shows up everywhere. New domestic competitions now run year-round, including the SARF 15s Series and SARF 7s Series. Clubs have sprouted across multiple regions, from Riyadh Warriors to NEOM Rugby Club, creating local hubs for the sport.

Women's rugby has become one of the fastest-growing areas since launching in late 2023. Female athletes now compete at regional tournaments including the Arab Rugby Sevens and Dubai 7s, breaking new ground in Saudi sports.

Youth programs have created pathways for the next generation, with structured under-18 programs, development camps, and school initiatives. The foundation is teaching thousands of kids the game for the first time.

On the international stage, Saudi Arabia already showed its potential at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy 2025, reaching the semifinals for a historic finish. That performance proved the national program could compete regionally.

The road to May's match involved intensive preparation. The coaching staff narrowed a 40-player training group down to the final traveling squad through multiple national camps and selection rounds.

The Ripple Effect

Saudi Arabia's rugby revival goes beyond one team or one match. The Kingdom has started hosting major regional events, including Arab Rugby Sevens tournaments in Taif, positioning itself as an emerging rugby destination in West Asia.

The Saudi Ministry of Education has even integrated rugby into physical education curriculum, ensuring the sport reaches students nationwide. That institutional support creates sustainability far beyond elite competition.

Head Coach Sami Smara sees the transformation in his players daily. "The level of competition within the squad continues to improve and we are seeing strong growth in discipline, fitness, tactical understanding, and team cohesion," he said.

Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai praised the Kingdom's commitment. "This occasion reflects the tremendous progress that has been achieved in a short period of time through strong leadership, vision, and commitment to growing the game," he noted.

President Al Dajani frames the upcoming match as just the beginning. "We see it as the launch of a 15s campaign that will trailblaze the path for everything that follows," he said.

The May fixture represents more than Saudi Arabia's return to international rugby—it signals a Kingdom building something lasting.