In a landmark announcement that highlights Qatar’s growing global influence in sports, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 has confirmed a record-breaking prize pool of over USD 36.5 million (QR 132.9 million). The move firmly positions the 2025 edition of the tournament as one of the most lucrative and anticipated football events in the Arab world.
Set to take place from December 1 to 18, 2025, the FIFA Arab Cup will once again bring together top national teams from across the region, with the final match perfectly timed to coincide with Qatar National Day—a symbolic finale that celebrates both national pride and regional unity.
The official draw for the tournament will be held in Doha on May 25, 2025, marking a key milestone in the countdown to kick-off.
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Official Statement
H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, Minister of Sports and Youth and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, emphasized the significance of this announcement in a public statement:
“This announcement further elevates the stature of the FIFA Arab Cup – a tournament we brought back to life in 2021 – and reflects Qatar’s leading role in the development of football across the region, continent and around the world.
It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to football and the positive values it promotes – unity, opportunity, and pride. This tournament is a celebration of Arab football, a platform for regional solidarity, and an inspiration for young talent across generations.”
He also highlighted how the Arab Cup plays a central role in Qatar’s long-term sports vision:
“The FIFA Arab Cup forms a vital part of the legacy of the FIFA World Cup, which was by the testimony of many far and wide the most successful edition of the tournament. Hosting world-class tournaments like the Arab Cup and the upcoming U-17 World Cup helps us build on that momentum, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a premier global sporting destination and leaving a meaningful legacy that benefits our communities and the broader region.”
Qatar Continues to Set Global Standards in Sports Hosting
This announcement follows a string of highly successful tournaments hosted in Qatar, including the FIFA World Cup 2022, AFC Asian Cup 2023, and AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2024. Each event has reinforced the country’s reputation for excellence in infrastructure, organization, and hospitality.
With an expanded prize pool and rising anticipation, the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 is poised to build on the legacy of its 2021 edition. That year, the tournament marked a major milestone in Arab football, drawing passionate fans and delivering world-class sporting action.
Why It Matters
Qatar’s commitment to investing in regional and global football platforms isn’t just about sports—it’s about connecting cultures, empowering talent, and leaving a lasting impact. The record prize fund is a bold signal to players, fans, and federations alike: the Arab Cup is not just back—it’s bigger, better, and built to inspire.
Source & Cover Credit: Press Release
