Jeddah set for Gulf Cup 27 kickoff with cultural opening on National Day

Jeddah is preparing to host the 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup, known as 'Gulf Cup 27,' on Wednesday evening. Eight national teams will compete in 15 matches through October 6, marking the city's first time hosting the tournament since its inception.

The tournament will open with a match between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (Al-Inma), with all games played at either Al-Inma or Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium.

The opening ceremony coincides with Saudi National Day. Acting Secretary-General of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation Majid Al-Sahib said the event will be "exceptional, with a simple cultural theme celebrating this national occasion," expressing hope that Gulf fans will enjoy it.

Al-Sahib confirmed that preparations for hosting the tournament are complete, noting that all participating teams have arrived in Jeddah and begun training, and that all venues and operational teams are fully ready.

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Speaking at the tournament's pre-event press conference, Al-Sahib said everyone is proud that Gulf Cup 27 is held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, reflecting the leadership's support for sports and athletes.

He added: "We thank all relevant authorities, our partners, and working teams for their efforts and cooperation during the preparation period. We look forward to a tournament worthy of the Kingdom and the Gulf Cup's stature and fans."

The tournament takes place during a period of high temperatures, which Al-Sahib addressed, explaining that match timings are determined by the sports calendar and the busy schedule of events hosted by Saudi Arabia.

He noted that Jeddah is ready to welcome guests from across the Gulf, saying the city is accustomed to hosting and successfully organizing major sporting events. He added: "We aim to provide fans with a leading and comprehensive experience from arrival to departure."

More than 14,000 organizers are involved in Gulf Cup 27, along with over 600 media professionals and 450 volunteers. The local organizing committee has focused on empowering Saudi youth and talent, giving them a key role in staging this Gulf event.

The competition will run until October 6, with eight teams vying for the new Gulf Cup title across 15 matches in Jeddah.