The newly-merged Shabab Al Ahli Dubai will take on Hatta, while Al Jazira will embark on their title defence at their fortess - the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium - against promoted Ajman, in the Arabian Gulf League (AGL) on September 16.

The draw for the new season of the UAE top flight as well as the Cup was organised by the Pro League Committee at the UAE Football Association headquarters in Al Khawaneej on Thursday and the first week sees a lip-smacking fixture between record League champions Al Ain and Al Wasl at the iconic Hazza bin Zayed Stadium.

The draw was conducted by former UAE international and Al Sharjah goalkeeper Mohsen Mesabeh and former Al Shabab player Yousif Uzair, with representatives of all the 12 clubs, in attendance.

The new season kicks-off with the Arabian Gulf Cup with the League champions Al Jazira and the Cup winners Shabab Al Ahli Dubai placed in Group A and B respectively.

The draw then saw Al Dhafra, Al Ain, Al Nasr, Hatta and Ajman join Al Jazira in Group A, with Al Wahda, Sharjah FC, Al Wasl, Emirates, Dibba and Shabab Al Ahli Dubai making up Group B.

Al Jazira are away to Al Dhafra in Round 1, while Shabab Al Ahli Dubai make the trip to Abu Dhabi to face Al Wahda.  Al Jazira and Al Ain then cross swords in Round 2.

Al Ain will play their first round fixture against Hatta on September 4 because of their commitments in the AFC Champions League.

Source: Khaleej Times