President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation: We Are Committed to Delivering an Exceptional Edition of “Khaleeji 27” and Welcoming All Gulf Nations

Yasser Al Misehal, President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, expressed his pleasure as the countdown officially begins toward the kick-off of the 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup, Khaleeji 27. He commended the continued support provided by the Gulf Cup Football Federation, led by His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, as well as the dedicated efforts of Mr. Jassim Sultan Al Rumaihi, Secretary General of the Federation, and all committee members involved in the organization of the tournament.

Al Misehal stated: “We are delighted to host this event, bringing together the Gulf national teams; a tournament eagerly anticipated by football fans across the region. September 23, which coincides with the Saudi National Day, will be particularly special. We hope Gulf and Arab audiences will enjoy the atmosphere of strong competition among brotherly nations. We promise an exceptional edition and warmly welcome all citizens of the Gulf countries.”

He further noted that the Gulf Cup has played a pivotal role in advancing football infrastructure across the region, contributing to the development of modern stadiums and sports facilities, while reinforcing the tournament’s long-standing organizational and technical impact on Gulf football. He also highlighted the remarkable fan engagement and sustained media attention surrounding the competition, particularly in recent years.

The President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation added that the strong support received by the tournament at all levels further reinforces expectations for Khaleeji 27 to be delivered in a manner befitting its rich history and status as one of the region’s most prominent football competitions, especially in light of the anticipated large-scale fan attendance and media interest.

It is worth noting that the official draw ceremony for Khaleeji 27 was held in the presence of officials from the Gulf Cup Football Federation, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Gulf football associations, delegations of the eight participating national teams, and several Gulf football legends.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host the tournament from September 23 to October 6, 2026, in the city of Jeddah, across King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium. This marks the first edition of the tournament to be hosted in Jeddah, within a comprehensive operational and organizational framework that reflects the Kingdom’s rapid progress in hosting major sporting events.