Early Life and Roots in Football
Houriya Taheri grew up in a region where girls playing football was once rare, and opportunities for female athletes were limited. From an early age, her passion for the game was clear. She was noticed by a coach while playing football with her brother at the age of 17, and that moment set the course for a remarkable journey. Despite societal expectations, she pursued her dream of being involved in football first as a player and then as a coach. Her determination to carve out space for women in the sport reflects not only her personal love for football but a deeper vision to inspire future generations of female athletes.
A Trailblazing Playing Career
Houriya’s playing career began in earnest when she joined her first official club, the Abu Dhabi Country Club, and soon earned her place as a goalkeeper for the United Arab Emirates women’s national team. She played with distinction, helping her team secure victories in regional tournaments such as the West Asian Football Federation Championships in 2010 and 2011. Her leadership on the field was matched by her resilience and technical skill, and she quickly became recognized as a standout presence in women’s football in the region. Her experiences on the pitch later became the foundation for her coaching philosophy, rooted in persistence and believing in oneself.
Becoming a Historic Coach
After an impactful playing career, Houriya shifted to coaching and pursued formal qualifications at the highest levels. She earned her AFC professional coaching license and became one of the most respected football educators in the region. As the head coach of the UAE Under-17 Women’s National Team and a coach educator with the UAE Football Association, she has dedicated herself to nurturing young talent and advancing women’s participation in the game. Her historic achievements include being among the first Arab women to qualify as an AFC and FIFA‑certified coach, breaking barriers in what was traditionally a male‑dominated profession.
Developing Future Champions
Under her leadership, women’s football in the United Arab Emirates has taken significant strides forward. There are now structured leagues at multiple youth levels, including under‑14 and under‑16 competitions, which provide essential playing opportunities for young girls. Clubs are expanding, and with more pathways for competition, the sport’s profile has climbed rapidly. Houriya’s vision has always been clear: open doors for girls who love football and provide them with the support and coaching they need to excel. This shift hasn’t happened overnight, but her tireless work behind the scenes has been a major driving force.
Life Beyond the Pitch
For Houriya, football is more than a career it is a purpose. She has been featured in high‑profile campaigns emphasizing resilience, opportunity, and personal growth in sport. Her life story has been documented in her own book, becoming a source of inspiration for young athletes who may feel held back by cultural expectations or lack of opportunity. Through speaking engagements and coaching courses, she shares insights about leadership, mental toughness, and the importance of believing in one’s dream.
Challenges and Triumphs
Houriya’s journey has not been without its challenges. Early in her career, societal norms and limited infrastructure made progress difficult. There were few role models, and support for women in football was minimal. But she refused to let these obstacles define her path. Instead, she saw them as opportunities to create change. Her persistence has helped shift attitudes, inspire families to support daughters in sport, and encourage organizations to invest in women’s football.
Personal Strength and Motivation
Behind her professional drive, Houriya carries personal motivations that fuel her commitment. She often speaks of the support her family gave her, and how that encouragement helped her face challenges with confidence. Her dedication is rooted in a desire to honor her own journey and to help others create theirs. She has mentioned that every young girl who steps onto the pitch with belief is a testament to the progress she has fought for.
Memories and Loss That Shape Her Path
Houriya’s personal life reflects resilience beyond sport as well. In her own words, she has shared the profound love and loss of her mother, a memory that continues to inspire her to pursue excellence and give back to her community. This personal strength translates into a coaching style that values not only athletic performance but emotional courage and perseverance.
Legacy and the Road Ahead
Today, Houriya Taheri stands as a beacon of inspiration for women in football across the Middle East and beyond. By pushing boundaries, gaining top coaching credentials, and directly shaping the future national teams of the UAE, she has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her path from national team player to elite coach and educator highlights how passion, vision, and unwavering effort can transform not only one life but an entire sporting culture.
As she continues to nurture talent and advocate for women in football, her legacy grows stronger. Young players now have role models they can see themselves in. Girls with big dreams now know those dreams are possible. And the foundations of women’s football in the UAE continue to be stronger, more visible, and more accessible than ever before.
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