Has the conflict in the Middle East had an impact on the Saudi Pro League?

The Saudi Pro League is trying to continue with matches even as football in other Middle Eastern countries is at a standstill due to the war with Iran.

The competition played one match on Thursday – Damac defeated Al-Riyadh 3-0 – but a second was moved to Saturday after Al-Qadsiah’s flight to play Al-Kholood was cancelled.

On Friday, Al-Ahli will take on Al-Ittihad in the Jeddah derby, one of the biggest matches on the national calendar, with an expected attendance of almost 60,000 spectators.

Saudi Arabian clubs were unable to play their Asian Champions League knockout matches earlier this week due to security concerns in the region.

At home, the Saudi Defense Ministry reported a suspected Iranian drone attack on the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh early Tuesday.

Still, the league says it is safe to continue playing, according to a letter sent to clubs this week.

The competition will be paused from March 14 to April 3, including the next international break.

Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus told domestic media that he was preparing for Friday’s match against Al-Najma as usual.

“We in Riyadh are safe, stable and secure, and we are carefully monitoring political events and waiting for necessary instructions,” the former Benfica coach said on Tuesday.

“We continue our work every day as usual.”

Al-Nassr are at the top of the standings, but will have to do without Cristiano Ronaldo against Neom SC in Riyadh on Saturday. The Portuguese star has a hamstring injury.

Published on March 6, 2026