Jeddah Set to Host the Arabian Gulf Cup 2026: Full Schedule, Groups and TV Channels

Jeddah is set to take centre stage as Gulf football fans prepare for the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup (Khaliji 27), scheduled to take place from 23 September to 6 October 2026 in Saudi Arabia. Featuring eight national teams, the tournament promises two weeks of competitive football, regional rivalries and thrilling encounters.

For fans planning to follow the action, here is everything you need to know about the Arabian Gulf Cup 2026, including the group stage, match fixtures, kick-off times, broadcasting channels and final.

Arabian Gulf Cup 2026: Group Stage Draw

The eight participating teams have been divided into two groups, with the top two teams in each group progressing to the semi-finals.

Group A

Saudi Arabia

Iraq

Oman

Kuwait

Group B

United Arab Emirates

Qatar

Yemen

Bahrain

The semi-final line-up will see the winner of Group A face the runner-up of Group B, while the winner of Group B takes on the runner-up of Group A. The winners will advance to the final on 6 October 2026, competing for the Arabian Gulf Cup title.

Which Teams Have Won the Most Arabian Gulf Cup Titles?

Kuwait is the most successful team in Arabian Gulf Cup history, having won the competition 10 times. Iraq ranks second with four titles, followed by Saudi Arabia and Qatar with three championships each. Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Oman have each won the tournament twice.

Arabian Gulf Cup 2026: TV Channels and Live Coverage

Fans looking to watch the Gulf Cup 2026 can check the schedules of the following sports broadcasters for match coverage:

beIN SPORTS

Abu Dhabi Sports

Dubai Sports

Al Kass Sports Channels

Thmanyah Channels

Bahrain Sports Channel

Oman Sports TV

Iraqia Sports

Viewers should check their local listings and official broadcaster announcements for confirmed coverage details.

Full Arabian Gulf Cup 2026 Match Schedule

The following fixtures are listed in Saudi Arabia local time (UTC+3).

Group A: Match Fixtures

Wednesday, 23 September 2026

Iraq vs Oman — 5:30 PM, Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium

Saudi Arabia vs Kuwait — 9:00 PM, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium

Saturday, 26 September 2026

Kuwait vs Iraq — 6:55 PM, Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium

Saudi Arabia vs Oman — 9:00 PM, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium

Tuesday, 29 September 2026

Saudi Arabia vs Iraq — 8:30 PM, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium

Oman vs Kuwait — 8:30 PM, Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium

Group B: Match Fixtures

Thursday, 24 September 2026

United Arab Emirates vs Yemen — 6:55 PM, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium

Qatar vs Bahrain — 9:00 PM, Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium

Sunday, 27 September 2026

Yemen vs Qatar — 6:55 PM, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium

United Arab Emirates vs Bahrain — 9:00 PM, Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium

Wednesday, 30 September 2026

United Arab Emirates vs Qatar — 8:30 PM, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium

Bahrain vs Yemen — 8:30 PM, Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium

Arabian Gulf Cup 2026 Semi-Finals

Saturday, 3 October 2026

Group A winner vs Group B runner-up — Venue to be confirmed

Group B winner vs Group A runner-up — Venue to be confirmed

Arabian Gulf Cup 2026 Final

Tuesday, 6 October 2026

The tournament will conclude at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, where the two semi-final winners will compete for the championship.

Experience Jeddah During the Gulf Cup

With Jeddah welcoming football fans from across the Gulf, the tournament also offers an opportunity to explore the city, discover its attractions and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere. Whether travelling between match venues or planning a wider city visit, having a convenient way to get around can make the experience easier.

For visitors planning their trip, checking match dates, stadium locations and local transport options in advance can help make the most of their time in Jeddah.