Saleh Al Khalfan

Saleh Khalfan Ahmed Al Khalfan is a staff officer in the Qatar Armed Forces and a former footballer for Al Arabi and the Qatar national team. Credibility, patience and faith shaped both his service and his sporting life, and he instilled independence in his children so that they, in turn, could serve Qatar through their different fields.

He was born in 1957 in Fareej Al-Khalifat in the East, overlooking the sea. He grew up in a modest, religiously observant family that placed great value on knowledge and good character. His father, an imam and preacher at the mosque, worked hard to provide a decent life and the necessities of daily living for his seven children. He also welcomed guests to a majlis that was rarely empty. Although strict in raising his children, he was kind and tender-hearted and taught them honesty, sincerity, respect and concern for people in need.

Because the family home was close to the sea, it became his outlet and constant companion. He loved swimming and fishing from an early age and played football throughout childhood, adolescence and youth on a pitch nearby. He and his friends spent long hours playing and competing. Before the Maghrib call to prayer, they would bathe in the sea, change their clothes and make their final—and most important—stop at the mosque. Most young people of the period followed a similar routine.

The family’s quiet life changed profoundly when his father died in 1972, while he was only fourteen. His mother—may God have mercy on her—assumed responsibility for the household, and the older brothers began working to help meet its expenses. Bereavement and the family’s new responsibilities compelled him to mature earlier than his peers.

He completed primary school at Arabian Gulf School and preparatory and secondary education at the Religious Institute. After secondary school, a scholarship gave him the opportunity to study at a European university. He chose instead to remain in Qatar, both to serve his country and to continue playing for Al Arabi and the national team. Staying also allowed him to help support his family. He enrolled at Qatar University, where he moved away from the sciences and selected a humanities specialisation.

His ability attracted attention from the beginning of his football training at the Arabian Gulf School under the late Salem Al-Sir. Joining Al Arabi’s youth side in 1973 established him more firmly in the sport. Coaches including the late Jaber Al-Dawla, the late Saad Al-Dabaiba and Wajdi Jamal recognised his unusual talent and helped refine it.

After completing his educational journey at Qatar University and obtaining his degree in 1983, he joined the military corps and continued to work there for 35 years, during which he rose from the rank of second lieutenant to the rank of staff brigadier general.

Alongside his military achievements, he recorded an extensive sporting career with Al Arabi, the national team and the military team. Al Arabi won league championships in 1984, 1985, 1991 and 1993, as well as the Amir Cup in 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983 and 1984; in one of those seasons, the club won both league and cup. He also took part in Sheikh Jassim Cup campaigns in 1980, 1982 and 1994.

His ability and efficiency led to his selection for the national team in the mid-1970s. He represented Qatar for nearly ten years, helping raise the country’s flag at Arab, Gulf and Asian sporting events. He also represented the military team in 1981.

His decision to retire from football was carefully considered rather than sudden. His increasing commitment to military service required greater attention to professional qualifications and training. He completed basic, advanced and specialised courses, culminating in the Command and Staff Course, which is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in military science and supported his achievements in the armed forces.

Recurring injuries also contributed to the difficult decision. They ultimately compelled him to withdraw from Al Arabi and bring his playing career on the football pitch to an end.

Despite his professional and sporting achievements, he regards his sons and daughters—their good character, reputation and progress in life—as his greatest source of pride. His eldest son, Majid, graduated from the Police College in the United Arab Emirates. Ahmed serves in the armed forces while continuing his university studies. Nasser works at Aspire Academy and is completing his degree part-time, while Khalfan is a student at Qatar University. Dana holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences, Darren a bachelor’s degree in tourism and hospitality from the Dutch University, and Amna was in the final year of her university studies in the United Kingdom. Each sought to use his or her profession and expertise in service of Qatar.

After retiring, he entered investment and trade in 2006. He established his first venture with a friend, but after five years they separated and each continued through his own company. The experience led him to create a business of his own with his children and opened new opportunities in trade and investment.

He has remained optimistic, faithful and self-confident, accepting God’s will and believing that patience and reliance on God open closed doors. He does not dwell on minor matters, overlooks the mistakes of others and forgives those who wrong him. He credits that outlook with the stability and success of his professional, sporting and family life.