RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s first women’s football club Eastern Flames FC, also known as Shua’lat Al-Sharqia FC, has received backing from Almana Group of Hospitals, a leading family health care provider in the Eastern Province. “This collaboration marks a significant step forward in promoting women’s sport and breaking societal barriers in the Kingdom,” said the Almana Group in a statement on Wednesday. Eastern Flames FC, based in Dammam, has been at the forefront of advancing women’s football in Saudi Arabia since its establishment in 2006. Almana will provide medical services to the team during their matches in the upcoming Saudi Women’s Premier League 2023/2024, which begins on Oct. 13. Saud Mansour Almana, chief procurement officer of Almana, said: “We are proud to be partnering with Eastern Flames FC. As a leading healthcare provider, we believe in supporting our community and empowering women in sports. This collaboration allows us to contribute to the growth of women’s football in the Eastern Province and showcase our commitment to excellence in healthcare.” Maram Albutairi, chair and CEO of Eastern Flames FC, said: “We are thrilled to have Almana Group of Hospitals as our partner. Their expertise in healthcare and commitment to quality align perfectly with the values of our club. This collaboration not only highlights our shared dedication to women’s sports and the Eastern Province community but is also a significant milestone for women’s football in Saudi Arabia.”