Ref watch: UAE official Omar Al Ali takes charge of first World Cup match (opens original article in a new tab)

UAE officials Omar Al Ali, Mohamed Al Hammadi, and Mohamed Obaid Khadim participated in the 2026 World Cup match between Egypt and New Zealand, with Al Ali's performance receiving positive feedback from pundits.

• UAE official Omar Al Ali refereed Egypt vs New Zealand in the 2026 World Cup qualifier match
• Three Emirati officials were involved in the game including assistant referee Mohamed Al Hammadi and VAR official Mohamed Obaid Khadim
• Al Ali's management of the game received praise from ITV pundits Lee Dixon and Ange Postecoglou
• Emirati officials could be assigned more duties in the tournament as games are assigned on a rolling basis