Ismail joined Al Rayyan in the 2009 winter transfer window.[3] He has been used mostly as a utility player, usually playing as a right back but has also started some matches as a winger, midfielder and striker. In 2011, he renewed his contract with Al Rayyan[4] for 3 years,[5] despite interest from El Jaish SC.[6]
Ismail was elected for the Best Player Award by the QFA for the 2010/11 season along with three others, but eventually lost out to Bakari Koné.[7]
Ismail comes from a footballing family. His father is a former football player, both of his brothers play for Qatari clubs, and his two sisters are members of the Qatar women's national football team. He is nicknamed "Hamoudi" by his family.[10]
Ismail's future plans were to become a legal consultant, but he was no longer able to study full-time due to his football career.[10]