In this file photo, Al-Qadsiya player controls the ball as Dohuk players defend during the final match.

KUWAIT CITY, July 9: The Arabian Gulf Cup Federation has announced that the draw for the upcoming edition of the Gulf Club Champions League (2025–2026) will take place on August 15 in Doha, Qatar. The tournament is scheduled to kick off in September 2025.

Eight clubs from across the region will take part in the competition:

Al-Qadsiya (Kuwait), Al-Rayyan (Qatar), Al-Ain (UAE), Al-Shabab (Saudi Arabia), Sara (Bahrain)

Al-Nahda (Oman), Al-Zawraa (Iraq), Al-Ahli Sana’a (Yemen). 

This edition is expected to be more competitive than the previous one, thanks to the presence of historically successful Gulf clubs. The last tournament featured more modest performances.

The format will see the eight teams split into two groups of four, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. All matches will be played at home and away.

Al-Qadsiya, returning to the competition last season after a nine-year absence, made an impressive run to the final. They drew 1-1 in the first leg against Duhok SC of Iraq but fell 2-1 in the second leg.

The Arabian Gulf Cup Football Federation continues to prioritize the tournament, especially in terms of financial rewards. The champion will receive $3 million, while the runner-up earns $1 million. Awards of $50,000 each will go to the tournament’s best player, top scorer, and best goalkeeper.

In addition, $300,000 is allocated to participating clubs, with an extra $100,000 awarded to each team that qualifies for the semi-finals.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff