Former Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro admitted the offer to join Al Ahli was too good to turn down with the 36-year-old saying he expects to end his playing career in the United Arab Emirates.
Cannavaro, whose international career came to a disappointing conclusion following the Azzurri's exit in the group stage of the World Cup having lifted the trophy four years previously in Germany, last month penned a two-year deal to join the Dubai club.
"I accepted Al Ahli's offer mainly because it was the best offer for me and my family," he said.
"I played in Italy and Spain for 20 years and there should be a change and I made it. I'm happy to join Al Ahli as this is a new journey in my career and I'm looking forward to it.
"The UAE is a nice country and it's safe also for my family. I discussed it with them and they showed great desire to come here.
"I hope that I can end my career with Al Ahli, who are investing in football for the future. I have met my new team-mates and they showed their desire to win, which will be our main motivation."
Al Ahli have turned to the former Inter Milan, Juventus and Real Madrid defender in a bid to improve on a disappointing season last term that saw them finish eighth in the domestic league and exit the Asian Champions League at the first hurdle after finishing bottom of Group D.
Cannavaro, Italy's most-capped player, also hopes to play a prominent role in developing the club's young talent.
"I have followed the UAE League and I saw Al Ahli in the AFC Champions League," he added.
"I hope that we will put all our efforts into getting better results and good achievements next year. I came here to use all my experience and help the young players."
Al Ahli executive manager Ahmad Khalifa Hammad was delighted with the Italian's capture.
"Cannavaro will join us for two seasons and he will be a big addition for us," he said.
"Fabio will be the new captain of the team because he has a strong personality on the pitch and he has good leadership and experience."
Hammad also confirmed former Leeds and Aston Villa manager David O'Leary will be presented as the club's new manager in the coming days.
"We will also announce the official signing of coach David O'Leary in an official press conference," he added.
"We hope that we can build a good team to compete in the new season."