The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has officially announced that Jeddah will host the 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup (Gulf Cup 27), which will take place from September 23 to October 6, 2026. This announcement confirms the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's continued readiness to host major sporting events in the region.
Two prominent stadiums were selected to host the tournament matches: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (The Shining Jewel) and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium. These stadiums are among the Kingdom's most distinguished sports facilities, boasting world-class infrastructure capable of accommodating the large Gulf fans expected to attend and support their national teams at this important regional event.
Commenting on the event, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, President of the Arabian Gulf Cup Football Federation, praised the Kingdom's immense capabilities, affirming that the upcoming edition promises to be an exceptional event befitting the tournament's prestigious reputation as one of the oldest competitions in the Middle East. For his part, Yasser Al-Misehal, President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, expressed the Kingdom's pride in hosting its Gulf brothers once again, noting that the generous support from the wise leadership and the continuous oversight from the Ministry of Sport will ensure a truly memorable and historic edition.
This hosting takes on significant strategic importance, as the tournament's opening on September 23 coincides with Saudi Arabia's National Day celebrations, lending a special celebratory atmosphere to the event. The tournament also comes at a time when Saudi sports are experiencing an unprecedented renaissance under Vision 2030, with the Kingdom becoming a global sports destination and preparing to host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. This makes the 27th Gulf Cup an important preparatory stage and a true rehearsal for upcoming continental and international tournaments, including the bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Historically, the Gulf Cup has held a special place in the hearts of the region's people since its inception in 1970 in Bahrain. Saudi Arabia has previously hosted the tournament on several successful occasions, most recently the 22nd edition in Riyadh in 2014. The tournament is more than just a football competition; it is a cultural and social event that strengthens the bonds of brotherhood between the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Yemen, and Iraq. The Jeddah edition is expected to generate significant media and public interest given the immense popularity of football in the coastal city.
