AFC increases UAE clubs' share in continental championships

April 24, 2026 / 10:58 PM

Sharjah24: The Asian Football Confederation has increased the number of continental slots for UAE clubs to five for the 2026–2027 season, thereby boosting the country’s representation in Asian competitions.

Under the new allocation, UAE clubs will receive three direct places in the AFC Champions League Elite, one place in the qualifying rounds, and one direct place in the AFC Champions League 2.

Regional comparison

Clubs from Saudi Arabia and Japan secured the highest allocation, with six slots each, comprising three direct entries to the elite competition, two qualifying spots, and one direct place in AFC Champions League 2. Meanwhile, Qatar received three direct elite spots and one direct slot in the secondary competition.

Competition expansion

The AFC also confirmed an expansion of its flagship tournament, increasing the number of participating teams from 24 to 32 from next season. The league stage in both the West and East regions will expand from 12 to 16 teams, with the top eight progressing to the knockout rounds.

Wider regional changes

Elsewhere, South Korea secured an additional qualifying slot, while Thailand saw its guaranteed league-stage places increase from one to three. China retained two direct spots but lost a qualifying place, while Australia secured an additional qualifying slot. Jordan and Vietnam also earned qualifying places.