Just over a year has passed since Ali Alhamad took control of Salisbury FC, and throughout that period the entrepreneur has been nurturing a bold vision: to transport his non‑league side to his native Kuwait for a distinctive overseas experience. The concept, which once seemed almost fantastical, is now on the brink of becoming reality. From Sunday, 27 September, through Thursday, 1 October, the Whites will abandon the cool, autumn evenings of Wiltshire and head to the Arabian Gulf, where daytime temperatures will soar into the high‑30s Celsius. During their stay, Brian Dutton’s squad is set to face Al Qadsia – the most decorated team in Kuwaiti football history, boasting 17 Premier League titles – at the 22,000‑seat Mohammed Al‑Hamad Stadium.
Al Qadsia’s roster includes Bader Al‑Mutawa, a veteran forward who ranks joint‑third on the list of most‑capped international players worldwide, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Alhamad, beaming with enthusiasm during a Sky Sports interview, summed up the venture with a grin: “Doing something different is practically our middle name.” He confessed that the idea kept him awake at night in a state of excited anticipation. “The first step was the open trials we held this summer. We received interest from 450 hopefuls.
Over four days the manager and coaching staff selected the three most promising players, rewarding them with an all‑expenses‑paid ten‑day training stint at Salisbury with the first team. The response was overwhelming and confirmed my suspicion that there is a massive appetite for English football in Kuwait.
The fact that we are a non‑league side is irrelevant – the quality of the game is high and people love a relatable underdog story.” Alhamad believes the friendly will raise Salisbury’s profile across the Gulf and benefit everyone involved. “The players will experience a new environment, a different country, a new opponent, a fresh culture, and local cuisine. They’ll be our guests, seeing the Middle East firsthand rather than just watching it on the news.” When he initially floated the proposal, Alhamad wasn’t sure how his squad would react. Within thirty minutes he received 18 copies of passports – every player eagerly signed up.
The only absentee will be Jaiden Bartholo, who has been summoned for international duty with Gibraltar. The countdown to departure is now measured in days, and Alhamad promises the trip will be unforgettable. “They’ll feel like stars the moment they step off the plane. Our Arabic‑language social channels are already buzzing, and I’m certain crowds in Salisbury kits will greet them at the airport.” He also highlighted the hospitality awaiting the team.
“Top restaurants in Kuwait are eager to welcome our players and will provide complimentary lunches and dinners throughout the stay.” Beyond the football, the itinerary includes community outreach and cultural immersion. In the mornings, the squad will visit schools and universities to speak with students about the professional game and the dedication required to succeed.
Alhamad stressed that the dream of becoming a professional footballer is shared across both nations. After the first day’s lunch, the group will enjoy a private VIP tour of the Scientific Centre, followed by a visit to the local souq where they will don traditional Kuwaiti attire, complete with headgear, before dining at Al‑Mubarakiya, the historic central market. The following day will be more relaxed, featuring a leisurely lunch and the official launch of the Salisbury Academy in Kuwait.
Training sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, culminating in the friendly match at 6:30 pm. After the game, the team will dine, rest, and prepare for the Thursday morning flight back to England, allowing a recovery day before their next fixture against Dulwich Hamlet on Saturday.
Alhamad’s eyes light up when he talks about the academy. “We are building a brand that can sustain the club long‑term. Replicating the typical UK model – chasing sponsorships, raising ticket prices, trying to fill seats – would be a losing battle for us.
Instead, we aim to grow the club globally, attract youth subscriptions from abroad, and develop players who could eventually represent Salisbury. That creates a more viable, sustainable pathway.” For now, his primary goal is to gift his players and staff memories that will endure a lifetime. “Club owners have a responsibility to expose their players to varied experiences. It isn’t just about signing a one‑year contract, playing, then moving on.
We want this adventure to leave a lasting imprint, to broaden their horizons and teach them how vast the world is. Those small lessons over a few days will shape them as men. It’s a massive experience, and I’m thrilled to make it happen.” The journey promises not only a unique footballing challenge but also a cultural exchange that could open doors for future collaborations between English non‑league football and the Middle East, demonstrating how sport can bridge continents and create lasting bonds.