Iraq Selected To Host 28th Arabian Gulf Cup
The Gulf Football Federation has announced that Iraq will host the tournament scheduled for December 2028.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Middle East
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The Gulf Football Federation officially selected Iraq to host the 28th Arabian Gulf Cup during a meeting in Jeddah. The tournament is currently set to take place from December 9 to December 22, 2028.
Why it matters
The decision underscores the return of Iraq as a recurring host for regional sporting events following the successful delivery of the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup in Basra in 2023. Coordination between the Iraqi government and the national football association will now determine the specific cities and infrastructure for the upcoming games.
The 28th Arabian Gulf Cup is scheduled to run from December 9 to 22, 2028. This follows the 27th tournament occurring in Saudi Arabia from September 23 to October 6, 2026.
The players
Gulf Football Federation
This regional governing body organizes major football competitions among nations in the Arabian Gulf.
Iraqi Football Association
This national sports organization oversees the development of football and coordinates international tournament bids in Iraq.
The details
The Gulf Football Federation Executive Office finalized the selection during their recent meeting in Jeddah. Officials noted that Basra has been proposed as a host city for the 2028 event, building on the infrastructure used during the 2023 tournament.
Timeline
Iraq first hosted the tournament in 1979.
Iraq hosted the 25th edition in Basra in 2023.
The 27th Arabian Gulf Cup occurs in Saudi Arabia from September 23 to October 6, 2026.
The 28th Arabian Gulf Cup is scheduled for December 9 to 22, 2028.
Travel Outlook
The selection of Iraq for the 2028 tournament follows the successful organizational precedent set by the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup in Basra in 2023. This hosting cycle signals a return to frequent regional tournament hosting for the nation.
Travelers planning for the 2028 tournament should watch for updates on host city infrastructure and ticket availability. Prospective visitors should consider booking accommodations in advance of the December tournament dates once the official match schedule is confirmed.
The takeaway
Hosting the 28th Arabian Gulf Cup solidifies Iraq's role as a major venue for international football in the Middle East. Fans should look for official announcements regarding venue assignments to finalize travel arrangements for late 2028.
What happens next
The 27th Arabian Gulf Cup is scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia from September 23 to October 6, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the region in our Middle East section.
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