Al Ahly are weighing up a possible change of venue for their 2026/27 pre-season training camp amid concerns over potential visa complications linked to their original plans.
The Egyptian giants had initially lined up the Netherlands as their destination for summer preparations, with the aim of putting the squad through an intensive programme ahead of the new campaign.
However, uncertainty over the approval of travel visas for members of the club’s travelling delegation has cast doubt over the feasibility of the European-based camp. The issue has prompted internal discussions about alternative options closer to home.
According to sources familiar with the situation, Al Ahly’s management is now actively reviewing other locations, with South Africa and Zanzibar emerging as the strongest contenders to host the club’s pre-season activities.
A final decision has not yet been made, but officials are said to be carefully weighing several practical considerations before settling on a destination. These include ease of travel for players and staff, the quality of training facilities, accommodation standards, and the possibility of arranging competitive friendly matches during the camp.
South Africa is understood to be a particularly attractive option for the club. The country has previously hosted a number of African teams for pre-season training and is known for its strong sporting infrastructure and high-performance environments, which could offer Al Ahly the level of preparation they are seeking.
Zanzibar, meanwhile, is also under serious consideration. The island destination is seen as a more straightforward logistical option and could provide favourable weather conditions suited to intensive fitness and tactical work during the pre-season period.
Al Ahly are expected to make a final call in the coming days as they look to confirm their schedule and ensure preparations for the 2026/27 season proceed without disruption.
The Cairo-based club, Africa’s most decorated side, are aiming to mount another strong challenge domestically and on the continental stage in the upcoming campaign. Their pre-season plans are viewed internally as a crucial foundation for those ambitions.
For now, however, the uncertainty surrounding travel arrangements means the final shape of their preparations remains unresolved, with attention focused on which destination will ultimately be chosen to kick-start their season build-up.
