As part of the evaluation process, a member of the AFC Youth Panel visited the SAFF headquarters, where discussions with the technical and development teams focused on the Federation’s youth development structures and competitions.

 

During the course of the inspection, the AFC delegation noted the SAFF’s substantial efforts in establishing the foundations of a robust and sustainable framework for youth football to thrive through competitions, grassroots activities and talent identification.

 Most notably, the Federation’s dedication towards identifying talented young footballers through close collaboration with schools, academies and commercial clubs was commended.

Meanwhile, the SAFF’s determination to foster a steady pipeline of competitive youth talent was also lauded. This ambition is supported by the SAFF's grassroots model, which has consistently recorded strong registration numbers over the years.

 

At the same time, the Al Qadsiah Club Academy, in Khobar, also received a visit from the AFC Youth Panel and was evaluated across 20 performance categories identified by the AFC, with the academy demonstrating a high level of quality and professionalism across the assessment.

Most notably, the Federation’s dedication towards identifying talented young footballers through close collaboration with schools, academies and commercial clubs was commended.

Beyond the pitch, the academy also places strong emphasis on player welfare and education, while maintaining close links with a wider network that allows alternative pathways to remain open for young footballers.

SAFF Acting General Secretary Majed Al Sahib said: “Receiving the highest ranking under the AFC Elite Youth Scheme reflects the continuous work undertaken by the Federation over the past years to develop its youth football system.

 

“I must commend the efforts made by the SAFF’s leadership and other teams for their contribution to the development of youth football, and I am sure we will do our best to build on the progress achieved and contribute to the further development and advancement of the Saudi Arabian football ecosystem.”