Deputy governor of Makkah opens Gulf Cup 27 in Jeddah on behalf of king

Under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and on his behalf, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, attended the opening ceremony of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup football tournament (Gulf Cup 27) last night at Al-Inma Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah.

The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports; Prince Saud bin Turki Al-Faisal; Prince Fawwaz bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Taif; and Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah. Also present were presidents and representatives of Gulf sports federations, as well as FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Saudi leadership thanked for hosting

On this occasion, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, expressed his gratitude to King Salman for his generous patronage of the tournament. He noted that the king’s support reflects the championship’s significance to Saudi leadership and its role as a longstanding sporting tradition that strengthens Gulf ties.

He highlighted the importance of this edition coinciding with Saudi National Day, describing it as a national event that underscores the deep relationship between the Kingdom and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

Tournament details and groups

Gulf Cup 27 will take place from September 23 to October 6, 2026, featuring eight Gulf national teams competing in 15 matches at Al-Inma Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium.

• Group A: Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, Kuwait

• Group B: Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Yemen

Saudi Arabia aims to deliver an outstanding tournament and exceptional experience for Gulf teams and fans, drawing on its extensive expertise in hosting major sporting events.