Saudi women’s football shines bright at first-ever National Awards ceremony

RIYADH: The inaugural Saudi Women’s Football Awards 2026 celebrated more than sporting success — it marked a defining moment in the rapid rise of women’s football in the Kingdom. 

Held under the Indivisa banner and presented by ROSHN Group, the ceremony honored the players, executives and pioneers shaping a new generation of Saudi sport.

The event highlighted the transformation of the women’s game in Saudi Arabia, recognizing not only achievements on the pitch, but also the leadership and grassroots work helping build a sustainable football ecosystem for women across the Kingdom.

One of the evening’s most notable honors went to Maram Al-Butairi, who received the “Most Influential Woman of the Year” award. As CEO of Eastern Flames FC, Al-Butairi has become one of the leading figures driving the professional growth of women’s football in Saudi Arabia.

The “Outstanding Contribution to Women’s Football” award was presented to Aalia Alrasheed, Head of the Women’s Football Department at the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, in recognition of her role in expanding opportunities and structures for women’s participation in the sport nationwide.

Community impact was also celebrated through Sara Alawaad, who earned the “Local Hero of the Year” award for her “Never Too Late” initiative, which has encouraged wider female participation in football and sport.

In football operations and development, Dona Rajab was named “Female Football Executive of the Year” for her work leading the women’s academy at AlUla Club and helping nurture emerging talent.

On the player side, Seba Tawfiq was awarded “Style Icon of the Year.” The Al-Ittihad midfielder and Saudi women’s national team player was recognized for her influence both on and