FORMER Fiji midfielder Abdullah Aiyas has signed a new contract with Dubai-based Gulf United FC for the 2026/27 season.
The 23-year-old announced the extension on social media after joining the UAE club midway through the previous campaign.
“Happy to announce signing another professional contract with Gulf United for the 2026/27 season,” Aiyas wrote.
The renewal comes as Gulf United begin a new chapter under former Barcelona and Spain star Andrés Iniesta, who was appointed head coach of the senior team in June.
Aiyas featured for Gulf United II during the 2025/26 season, making 11 appearances and playing 759 minutes, according to available statistics.
The Sydney, Australia footballer played for Australian clubs Bonnyrigg White Eagles and Nepean FC before moving into overseas football.
He represented Fiji at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina, playing all 270 minutes across group-stage matches against Slovakia, the United States and Ecuador.
He later earned senior international opportunities, featuring for Fiji at the 2025 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Papua New Guinea.
Aiyas has also overcome injury setbacks that affected his 2024 season, later returning to action and rebuilding his career with opportunities at club and international level.
The midfielder will wear the number 31 shirt at Gulf United, a tribute to his grandfather’s birthday. The name on the back represents his family’s legacy.
With another season secured in the UAE First Division, Aiyas will be looking to build on his progress in Dubai and earn further opportunities under Iniesta’s leadership.
