Al Riyadi Beirut has officially announced the return of Lebanese basketball superstar Wael Arakji, bringing one of the biggest names in Asian basketball back to the club ahead of the Lebanese Basketball League playoffs.
Arakji returns after a remarkable season with Saudi Arabian side Al Ula, where he played on a reported $1.2 million contract and helped lead the club to unprecedented success. The Lebanese international played a key role in Al Ula’s historic campaign, guiding the team to all three domestic titles and delivering the first treble in the organization’s history.
The announcement marks the end of Arakji’s successful stint in Saudi Arabia and the beginning of a new chapter with Al Riyadi, a club where he has enjoyed tremendous success throughout his career.
According to reports, Arakji’s agreement with Al Riyadi extends beyond the current playoff run, with the star guard expected to remain in Beirut for two additional seasons. The deal is reportedly worth around $1 million per season, making it one of the most lucrative contracts in Lebanese and regional basketball history.
Arakji’s return immediately strengthens Al Riyadi’s championship ambitions as the club prepares for the postseason. Widely regarded as one of the premier players in Asia, the Lebanese national team captain brings elite scoring, playmaking, leadership, and big-game experience to an already talented roster.
His arrival is expected to provide a major boost for Al Riyadi as they pursue another Lebanese Basketball League title and continue their quest for regional success.
With one of Lebanon’s greatest basketball talents officially back in yellow, Al Riyadi has made a statement ahead of the most important stretch of the season.