Nouf Al Anzi, the Emirati footballer changing the game

Serving as captain of the UAE’s first women’s national team and a pivotal player in the AFC Women’s Champions League, Nouf Al Anzi epitomises the art of possibility. From engaging in street games with her siblings to competitive school matches, her formative years were deeply rooted in football. “I started playing football at school and with my family, in the streets, like any other kid who loves football. And then I realised that this is something that I wanted to pursue,” she shares. Her career arc has since crossed continents, from the UAE to Egypt and Spain, charting a course through complex cultural and gender landscapes

At the core of Nouf’s success lies a robust support system. “I don’t think that I reached this level without the support system that I was lucky with. My family, my backbone, they’re the reason that I reached this level.” Nouf’s sister, a crucial part of this support network, played alongside her for several seasons, providing guidance both on and off the pitch. This familial connection exemplifies the collective spirit typical of Arab families, where personal triumphs are interwoven with familial encouragement and communal pride.

Originally published in Dazed MENA Issue 01 | Order Here

Extending this supportive environment was her former coach within the UAE Federation team, who became not just a mentor, but a role model to Nouf. “There was my former coach who taught me how to be a professional player on and off the pitch and what it takes to reach the highest level. And I keep learning from her until today—anything I need, help or support, I go to her and my sister.” This cultural backdrop not only supports, but also richly enhances her sporting career, showing how deeply family and community are embedded in her achievements.

Despite facing limited opportunities and navigating societal expectations that often ostracise women from the sports industry, Al Anzi’s impressive career is a testament to her stubborn determination. Transcending boundaries, she has managed to lead her teams to the international stage with ease. “We’re the only Arab team in the competition, and we were able to qualify for the quarter-finals, so I think we’re not just representing the UAE, but the Middle East and Arabs as well,” she reflects. Nouf describes her team as being the “black sheep” of the competition, but that did not matter to them as they rose to the success they have now, acting as sources of inspiration.

As a mentor, Al Anzi, known for her commitment to nurturing the next generation’s talent pool, is actively shaping the future of her sport, extending her influence beyond the pitch into genuine education and community engagement. “It wasn’t just a game of ‘Oh, okay, I’m going to the pitch and I’m playing football.’ We have to always show ourselves in the best way possible because we know that younger generations are looking up to us,” she explains. Her commitment extends to school visits, during which she encourages a culture of ambition and resilience among young athletes. Her perspective enriches the discourse around gender in athletics, showcasing how her prowess and leadership elevate the conversation beyond mere participation to influence and inspire on a global scale.

Through her achievements on the international stage and dedication to shaping future generations, Al Anzi is not only pioneering a path for Emirati women in football, but also setting a powerful precedent for aspiring athletes worldwide. As she looks ahead with optimism, her vision extends far beyond personal accolades—it is about changing the game itself. “I’m very optimistic about the future. Inshallah, one day, like soon, we’ll see the UAE in the World Cup. Why not?”

Originally published in Dazed MENA Issue 01 | Order Here

Talent NOUF AL-ANZI, art direction DAOUD TABIBZADA, hair & make-up artist JEAN KAIROUZ, creative producer & set designer ALI JEROME, production LUCKY-STUDIOS, video AMIN IDRIS