Saudi Arabia prepares for 27th Arabian Gulf Cup in Jeddah

Gulf Cup 27 Saudi Arabia national team Georgios Donis Jeddah football preparations

Preparations are intensifying in Jeddah for the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup, scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 6, 2026. The Saudi Arabian national team, led by Greek coach Georgios Donis, is currently holding a closed training camp at King Abdullah Sports City. Training sessions have focused on tactical cohesion, physical fitness, and set-piece execution as the team prepares for its opening match against Kuwait.

In parallel, the Gulf Football Federation has launched a preparatory camp for match officials in Jeddah. Opened by Hani Taleb Ballan, the program includes theoretical lectures, physical fitness tests, and specialized training on Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology and recent rule amendments. The federation is also conducting briefing sessions for technical staffs and players to ensure clarity on officiating standards and player safety protocols during the tournament.

The Saudi team is placed in Group A alongside Kuwait, Oman, and Iraq. This tournament serves as a critical stepping stone for the national team ahead of the upcoming Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.