Saudi Arabia enters final countdown to host 2027 AFC Asian Cup with 24 teams

Saudi Arabia has entered the final countdown to host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, with just 150 days remaining until the 19th edition of the continental tournament kicks off. The event, which will be held in the Kingdom for the first time, is scheduled from January 7 to February 5, 2027.

The tournament will feature 24 Asian national teams competing over 30 days in 51 matches, hosted across the cities of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Alkhobar. It is set to be one of the largest sporting events in Asia.

Organizational and operational preparations are ongoing in the three host cities, including finalizing stadiums and facilities, as well as implementing transport, hospitality, and fan services plans. These efforts aim to deliver a seamless experience for teams and supporters arriving from across Asia.

The upcoming edition will see a high level of competition, with several top Asian teams participating, including those that qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, promising an intense battle for the continental title.

Draw and Saudi Arabia’s group

The tournament’s final draw was held last May at Salwa Palace in the historic At-Turaif district of Diriyah. Saudi Arabia was placed in Group A alongside Kuwait, Oman, and Palestine. The Green Falcons will open their campaign against Palestine in Riyadh, aiming to secure their fourth Asian title after previous wins in 1984, 1988, and 1996.

Volunteer program and community preparations

As part of community preparations, the first phase of in-person interviews for the 2027 Asian Cup volunteer program began last week in the Eastern Province, following more than 30,000 applications. Over 3,000 interviews are being conducted in Alkhobar, with further interviews scheduled in Riyadh and Jeddah as part of the volunteer selection and training process for various tournament roles.