ABU DHABI (AlETIHAD)
Abu Dhabi Media Company, the UAE’s leading public broadcaster and media company, has secured the rights to broadcast the upcoming 26th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup in the Middle East and North Africa, in a deal brokered by the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation’s (AGCFF) commercial agency, IMG.
Under the agreement, Abu Dhabi Media Company will broadcast all live fixtures and highlights from the ‘Khaleeji Zain 26’ tournament, which is taking place in Kuwait between 21 December – 3 January. Fans will enjoy comprehensive coverage and access, with pre- and post-match shows each day throughout the competition, featuring expert analysis from top presenters and panels.
The tournament will feature eight participating teams, including hosts Kuwait, defending champions Iraq, Qatar, Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE.
Rashed Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Media Company, said, “Securing the broadcast rights for the Arabian Gulf Cup underscores Abu Dhabi Media Company's leading position and advanced capabilities in the media industry. This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class sports coverage for a tournament anticipated by millions of football enthusiasts. Since its inception, Abu Dhabi Media Company has established a leading role in the professional coverage of major sports events worldwide.”
Al Qubaisi added, "Abu Dhabi Media Company remains dedicated to exceeding viewer expectations by offering top-tier audio-visual coverage, reinforcing our reputation for broadcasting local and international tournaments. We will continue to leverage the latest technology and adhere to the highest global standards to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience.”
Jassim Al-Rumaihi, Secretary-General of the AGCFF, said, “This year’s tournament is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, and we are delighted to partner with Abu Dhabi Media Company to bring it to screens across the region. Abu Dhabi Media Company are dedicated to ensuring top-quality production and talent, and we know that they will deliver a captivating viewing experience for our fans.”
Victor Blundell, SVP, Middle East & Eastern Europe, Rights at IMG, added, “The 26th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup will showcase the best of Gulf football, as the biennial tournament reignites regional rivalries. This deal with Abu Dhabi Media Company will ensure fans in the MENA region can catch every minute of the live action and relive all the best moments of this thrilling competition.”
IMG has a long-term commercial partnership with the AGCFF to market the media rights and sponsorship agreements for the Arabian Gulf Cup, through to 2031.
The news follows recent sponsorship agreements for the 2024 tournament with title sponsor Zain and BAIC Motor Corporation.