The Gulf Cup Football Federation has announced that September 9 will be the date for the draw of the third edition of the Gulf Champions League for clubs 2026-2027, scheduled to take place between October 13, 2026 and April 30, 2027.
The Gulf Federation has approved an increase in the number of participating clubs in the new edition to 12 clubs instead of 8 clubs.
The Gulf Federation also determined the seat allocation mechanism based on the ranking of member national federations according to the Asian Football Confederation’s club ranking for the 2026-2027 season, as follows:
First tier (two seats) for each of:
- Saudi Arabian Football Federation.
- United Arab Emirates Football Federation.
- Qatar Football Federation.
- Iraqi Football Federation.
Second tier (one seat) for each of:
- Oman Football Federation.
- Bahrain Football Federation.
- Kuwait Football Federation.
- Yemen Football Federation.
The Gulf Federation sent an official invitation to the national federations to nominate the clubs that will represent them in the Gulf Champions League for clubs for the 2026-2027 season.
The Gulf Federation stressed that the nominated clubs must be among the highest-ranked clubs in the local league, after those clubs participating in Asian Football Confederation competitions for the same season. In case of non-compliance, the Gulf Cup Football Federation has the right to accept or reject the nominated club and choose whomever it deems appropriate.
The third edition of the Gulf Champions League is receiving increasing attention, due to the success achieved by the first and second editions on both organizational and technical levels, placing the upcoming tournament before a new challenge to enhance its status as one of the most prominent regional club-level tournaments in the Gulf region.
It is noted that Iraq’s Dohuk club won the first edition after defeating Kuwait’s Al-Qadsia club 2-1 in the final, while Qatar’s Al Rayyan won the second edition by defeating Saudi Arabia’s Al Shabab club 3-0.
Gulf Champions League
The Gulf Champions League is a regional football competition for club teams from member nations of the Arabian Gulf Cup Football Federation. Established in 1982, it was originally known as the Gulf Club Champions Cup and served as a prestigious tournament for top clubs from the Arabian Peninsula. The league has a rich history of fostering competitive football in the Gulf region, with clubs from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and other nations vying for the title.
Dohuk club
Dohuk Club is a historic social and recreational establishment located in the city of Dohuk in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Founded in the mid-20th century, it has served as a key gathering place for local intellectuals, professionals, and families, offering sports facilities, gardens, and cultural events. Despite facing challenges during periods of regional conflict, the club remains a cherished symbol of community life and heritage in Dohuk.
Al-Qadsia club
Al-Qadsia Club is a prominent sports and cultural institution based in Kuwait, best known for its successful football team. Founded in 1960, the club has a rich history of winning numerous domestic titles and has become a symbol of athletic achievement in the region. Beyond sports, it also engages in community and cultural activities, reflecting its broader role in Kuwaiti society.
Al Rayyan
Al Rayyan is a city in Qatar, historically known as a Bedouin settlement and a center for pearl diving and fishing before the discovery of oil. It has since developed into a modern urban area, famous for hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup matches at the Education City and Ahmad bin Ali Stadiums. Today, Al Rayyan blends its cultural heritage with contemporary attractions, including the historic Al Rayyan Fort and the bustling Mall of Qatar.
Al Shabab club
Al Shabab Club is a prominent sports and cultural institution in the United Arab Emirates, based in Dubai. Established in the mid-20th century, it has played a key role in promoting football and other athletic activities, with its football team historically competing in the UAE top-tier leagues. The club also serves as a community hub, fostering youth development and cultural events alongside its sporting legacy.
