Having won the AFC Beach Soccer Asian Cup in 2015 and finished third in 2019, before COVID prompted the cancellation of 2021’s edition, Oman set themselves a target of reaching at least the semi-finals at the continental championship’s 2023 edition. They did not disappoint, finishing third following an impressive campaign that saw them beat China PR 11-0 in the quarter-finals and run eventual champions IR Iran close in the semis.

Having competed at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™ on four previous occasions, Oman’s target is to reach the knockout phase for the first time. “Our goal is to make it past the group stage for the very first time,” Al-Yaqdhan Al-Hindasi,” told FIFA.

Oman finished third at the Asian finals, reached the Arab Beach Soccer Cup final and came fourth at the CIS Games – behind Belarus, Iran and Russia – in 2023.

“The secret to our success is the fact we have a squad full of experienced players who’ve played together for many years under the leadership of the same, experienced coach,” said Al-Hindasi.Oman face a tough challenge at UAE 2024 Dubai, though, having been drawn against five-time winners Brazil, two-time champions Portugal and Mexico in Group D. According to Al-Hindasi, however, the fact the tournament will unfold in Dubai will work in the Omanis’ favour.

“We’re in a tough group against some very strong teams, but we believe in ourselves and we’re going to give it our all,” he said. “We’ll also have a lot of support from the fans because Dubai is very close to Oman.”

Following an impressive 2023 individually, Al-Hindasi has lofty ambitions of his own for 2024. “Being the top scorer in the World Beach Games qualifiers and making it to the World Cup with my national team are the best memories I’ve made in my playing career,” he said. “Now I want to put in a great performance in Dubai and help my country make it to the knockout phase.”