The Dubai Sports broadcaster has secured exclusive rights to Dutch soccer’s top-tier Eredivisie for the next three seasons.
In a significant move for soccer fans in the region, Dubai Sports, a key player in the Dubai Media landscape, has announced that it will broadcast the Eredivisie for the 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28 seasons across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions.
This agreement marks a shift from last season’s short-term arrangement where fans could only catch games via Starzplay, a pay-TV service that held broadcast rights for just one season. Now, dedicated followers of the sport can look forward to comprehensive coverage of one of Europe’s most competitive leagues, ensuring they won’t miss a moment of the action.
The allure of the Eredivisie isn’t limited to enthralling matches and passionate fanbases. The league has become a nurturing ground for talent from the MENA region, boasting several iconic players. Currently, 12 Moroccans play in the league, alongside talents from Algeria, Iran, Egypt, and Tunisia. This influx not only enriches the league but also strengthens the cultural ties between the MENA region and Dutch soccer.
This deal aligns with broader media strategies; last October, the Eredivisie renewed its international rights partnership with IMG for an additional five years, extending a collaboration that has lasted over two decades. This partnership enables IMG to manage global media rights for the league, streamlining coverage for fans worldwide and enhancing the visibility of Dutch soccer.
As for other European leagues in the MENA region, Starzplay continues to provide coverage for Italy’s Serie A, whereas Qatari broadcaster BeIN is the go-to source for France’s Ligue 1, on air until 2029, and for Spain’s LaLiga through 2027-28. The competition for broadcast rights emphasizes the growing interest in European soccer across international markets.
In the Netherlands, domestic viewers aren’t left out. ESPN will air Eredivisie matches until 2030, ensuring that Dutch fans have plentiful access to the league. Furthermore, highlights will be available through public-service broadcaster NOS, making sure no exciting moment goes unseen by local audiences.
Currently, as the 2024-25 Eredivisie season nears its conclusion, Ajax sits atop the league table, boasting a seven-point lead over rivals PSV Eindhoven, who have one game left to play. This intense competition encapsulates the essence of the Eredivisie, making it a highly anticipated trek for soccer enthusiasts and underlining the league’s significance in both local and international contexts.
