He received the nickname "Baka" from his former coach Mauroof Ahmed, who named him after a foreign midfielder who had previously played for Victory Sports Club.

Returning to VB Sports Club in 2011, Arif played a pivotal role in their Dhiraagu Dhivehi League triumph that year.

His notable contributions came in the SAFF Championship, where he played a crucial part in multiple championship-winning campaigns for Maldives, including victories in 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2018.

[10][11] Arif's career trajectory underscores his versatility and impact both domestically and internationally, solidifying his reputation as a significant figure in Maldivian football.

[12] In June 2024, Arif went to perform Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia on the invitation by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.