Doha, Qatar – The third Qatar-UAE Super Cup is set to commence on January 22nd, bringing together top clubs from both nations to compete for prestigious titles and substantial cash prizes. Matches will be held across both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, culminating in a four-day showcase of regional football talent. Organizers have confirmed full readiness for the tournament, anticipating strong attendance and a competitive atmosphere.
The competition begins with Al Gharafa of Qatar facing Sharjah of the UAE at Thani Bin Jassim Stadium in Doha on Monday, January 22nd, at 7:00 PM Qatar time (8:00 PM UAE time). Subsequent matches will be held in Abu Dhabi and Doha, concluding on January 25th with a Challenge Cup clash between Al Jazira and Al Ahli.
Qatar-UAE Super Cup: A Boost for Regional Football
This annual tournament, first established in 2022, aims to strengthen ties between the Qatar and UAE football associations and provide a platform for showcasing the best players in both leagues. According to the organizing committee, the Qatar-UAE Super Cup serves as a valuable pre-season competition and a key element in developing football across the Gulf region. The event also provides economic benefits through tourism and hospitality.
Match Schedule and Venues
The full schedule is as follows: January 23rd sees Al Wahda (UAE) versus Al Duhail (Qatar) at Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi. January 24th features a highly anticipated match between Al Sadd (Qatar) and Shabab Al Ahli (UAE) at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha. Finally, on January 25th, Al Jazira (UAE) will play Al Ahli (Qatar) at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Organizers have emphasized the importance of safety and security, confirming full coordination with relevant authorities. Abdullah Al Minhali, Facility Manager, stated that designated fan zones will be established at each stadium, offering activities and prize draws in collaboration with the participating clubs. This focus on the fan experience is intended to enhance the overall event atmosphere.
The financial incentives for success are significant. The winning team will receive a prize of QR4 million, while the runner-up will be awarded QR2 million. Ahmed Al Adsani, Director of Competitions, noted that the organizing committee continually reviews regulations after each edition to improve both the technical and organizational aspects of the tournament. This iterative approach aims to ensure the highest possible standards for future competitions.
Meanwhile, ticket sales have been underway since January 11th through the online platforms of the UAE Pro League and Qatar Stars League. Ali Hassan Al Salat, Media Manager, reported that 75% of tickets for the Al Sadd vs. Shabab Al Ahli match and 50% for the Al Gharafa vs. Sharjah match have already been sold. He anticipates further increases in sales following the conclusion of Week 13 of the Doha Bank Stars League, indicating strong public interest in the football tournament.
The Gulf region has seen increased sporting collaboration in recent years, with events like the Super Cup contributing to a growing sense of unity and competition. This year’s edition builds on the success of previous iterations, attracting attention from fans and media across the region. The competition also provides a valuable opportunity for player development and scouting.
Looking ahead, organizers will focus on evaluating the success of this year’s event and gathering feedback from participants and attendees. A post-tournament review will likely address areas for improvement in logistics, fan engagement, and overall competition format. The date and details for the fourth edition of the Qatar-UAE Super Cup are expected to be announced in the coming months, with continued emphasis on fostering stronger ties between the two nations through sport.
