In 1981, decision was taken by Saudi Arabia Football Federation to increase the number of clubs, thereby increasing the number to 18 clubs, 8 of which take part in the 1st League, rest 10 in the 2nd League. Further in 1985-85 season the number of clubs in the 1st League was increased to 12 clubs.
In 1990, a new league championship was also introduced, known as The Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques League Cup. It was a 2 stage competition - round robin and knockout-phase. Top 4 teams (knowns as Golden Square) from the round robin move to the knock-out phase to compete for the final championship.
