The 2008–09 Etisalat Emirates Cup was the first staging of the Etisalat Emirates Cup, running between October 10, 2008 and April 3, 2009. The competition was won by Al Ain defeating Al Wahda in the final 1–0. 12 clubs were drawn into 3 groups of 4 teams. The winners and the best runner-up qualified for the semi-final stage.