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 off the field.
Several of the night’s top footballing honors reflected the increasing quality and competitiveness of the Saudi Women’s Premier League. Sara Al-Hamad of Al Nassr FC received the “Goal of the Year” award, while Kheira Hamraoui of Al Hilal FC was named “International Player of the Year.”
The “National Team Player of the Year” honor went to Lana Abdulrazak of Al-Ittihad, recognizing her impact with the Saudi women’s national team during a landmark year for the program.
Meanwhile, Brazilian star Adriana Silva of Al Qadsiah FC claimed the prestigious “Player of the Year” award after a standout campaign.
The ceremony also unveiled the “Ultimate Team of the Year,” featuring many of the league’s standout performers. The squad included Clara Luvanga, Maria Eduarda, Muna Abdelrahman, Kathellen Sousa and Sara Al-Hamad from Al Nassr FC.
Also selected were Kheira Hamraoui from Al Hilal FC, Lina Boussaha from Al-Ittihad, and Naomie Kabakaba from Al Ahli.
Representing Al Qadsiah FC in the Team of the Year were Adriana Silva, Léa Le Garrec and Rayanne Machado.
As Saudi Arabia continues investing heavily in women’s sport under Vision 2030, the awards ceremony reflected a broader cultural and sporting transformation. From grassroots advocates and executives to elite players and international stars, the event showcased how women’s football in the Kingdom is rapidly building its own identity, heroes and legacy.
