During the 181st match in the first round of the Professional Football League in Al-Ain, referees from abroad used VAR 10 times. The total costs for inviting foreign referees in 10 matches of the first round amounted to 1.7 million dirhams. It is noted that one match of the first round between Shabab Al-Ahli and Dibba Al-Hisn was postponed. Referees from abroad officiated matches Al-Wasl - An-Nasr, Shabab Al-Ahli - Al-Wahda, Al-Ain - Al-Wasl, Al-Ain - Al-Wahda, Al-Ain - Shabab Al-Ahli, Sharjah - Al-Wahda, as well as Al-Jazira - Al-Ain, Shabab Al-Ahli - Al-Wahda, Al-Ain - Sharjah, Shabab Al-Ahli - Al-Jazira.
Former international football referee Abdulla Al-Ajil stated that during the first round, there were some noticeable observations concerning officiating. Five young referees with clear officiating were highlighted on the field. They were selected for officiating matches in the UAE and demonstrated a good performance, thereby receiving the opportunity for further development and experience.
He noted that the interference of VAR in refereeing decisions was one of the main aspects of the first round, as often VAR was involved in many decisions that should have been made by the main referee. The officiating team had more experience, however, their performances left much to be desired, as their qualification and skills should have been at a higher level, and their presence should not have been limited to just officiating matches.
He also pointed out that local referees, in general, showed exemplary officiating in the first round, but some of them lacked stability in refereeing. He emphasized that assistant referees had a good level, which significantly contributed to the success of many matches. The role of the fourth referee was also important, especially in controlling off-the-ball aspects of the game and participating in the overall organization of matches, which facilitated the referees' work during the game.
