The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia will face off in the final of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup on Tuesday at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. The stadium, which seats 62,000 spectators, is set to host a highly anticipated match as both teams aim to secure the prestigious regional title.

Saudi Arabia, representing Group A, advanced to the final with an undefeated group stage performance and a hard-fought victory over Qatar in the semifinal that extended into extra time. The hosts will benefit from strong home support at the venue.

The United Arab Emirates, finishing as runners-up in Group B, earned their place in the championship match after edging Oman 1-0 in the semifinal on Saturday. The decisive goal came early in the 22nd minute when Othman Camara converted a cross from Mamadou Coulibaly.

UAE coach Zlatko Dalic acknowledged his team's semifinal performance was below their expectations but emphasized the importance of securing the win. “We did not play our best match and missed some chances, particularly the penalty, but the most important thing for us was reaching the final,” Dalic said. He expressed confidence that the team could improve their style of play and create more opportunities in the forthcoming final.

Dalic also recognized the challenge posed by Saudi Arabia, citing the host nation's strong squad and the support of the local crowd. He anticipated a competitive match and a full stadium, stating, “We have great respect for the Saudi team.”

Given the tight schedule, the UAE coach highlighted the importance of player recovery ahead of the final. “We only have two days, but Saudi Arabia also played extra time in their match against Qatar, so they face the same challenge in terms of fatigue,” Dalic explained.

He also expressed gratitude toward the UAE supporters who traveled to Jeddah and called for unity among fans, media, players, and team management to rally behind the national side going into the decisive match.

Qatar's campaign in the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup ended in the semifinals, continuing a pattern of earlier exits in recent tournaments. The team had previously reached the semifinals in 2024, 2023, 2019, and 2009, but was eliminated in the group stages in 2017, 2013, 2010, and 2007. Their latest semifinal loss in this edition underscored ongoing challenges for the Qatari side in capturing the Gulf Cup title.