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.