Football fans from all over the capital are starting to get excited this week as the start of the fourth season of the UAE professional league draws ever closer. The traditional season-opening Etisalat Super Cup pits reigning champions Al Jazira against local rivals Al Wahda; it kicks off this Saturday evening at the New Baniyas Stadium before a full complement of Etisalat Cup matches next weekend ease us into the season proper.

While professional football in the UAE might not have the glitz and glamour – or indeed quality – of some of the European leagues it would be a mistake to write it off completely and if you’ve never been to a live match over here, then you’re missing out.

Although the crowds may be comparatively small – the league’s average attendance last year was around 3,000 – the atmosphere within the stadia is electric, ticket prices are ridiculously cheap (or free in most cases), there’s never any trouble and the quality of football on display is steadily improving year-on-year.

And, if you’re looking for a team to follow in Abu Dhabi then you really are spoilt for choice with four of the capital’s teams in the top tier.

Considered by many to be the nation’s glamour team, Al Jazira have strengthened their squad by bringing in ex-Premiership star Lucas Neal and will want to consolidate on a fantastic season last year, when they won an unprecedented league and cup double.

Baniyas have also added experience to their exciting young squad in the form of French World Cup winner David Trezeguet and will be hoping to go one better this time around after finishing second last season.

Meanwhile, Al Wahda and Al Ain, the country’s most successful club with nine league and five cup successes, will both be looking to improve on indifferent campaigns last season after finishing fifth and tenth respectively.

One thing’s for certain, whoever you decide to choose, you’re in for a wild and exciting ride. Give it a chance – we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Jon Muller