UAE football supporters have shown their excitement ahead of Tuesday’s Gulf Cup final against Saudi Arabia, with all seats on six charter flights to Jeddah reportedly sold out within 10 minutes.
The rapid response highlights the growing anticipation around the UAE’s first Gulf Cup final appearance since 2018.
Six Charter Flights Sell Out in Minutes
The UAE Football Association opened registration for supporters who wanted to travel to Saudi Arabia for the final.
Six charter aircraft had been arranged to transport Emirati fans to Jeddah following the national team’s qualification. However, demand far exceeded expectations, with local media reporting that every available seat was taken within minutes of registration opening at 1pm.
What was expected to be a routine registration process quickly turned into a race among fans to secure a place on the flights.
UAE Reach Gulf Cup Final After Oman Victory
The surge in demand follows the UAE’s impressive 1-0 victory over Oman in Jeddah, which secured their place in the Gulf Cup final.
The result ended a long wait for the UAE to return to the tournament’s title match. The team last reached the Gulf Cup final in 2018 and will now have the opportunity to compete for regional silverware once again.
The UAE are also aiming to win the Gulf Cup for the third time, having previously lifted the trophy in 2007 and 2013.
The UAE will face hosts Saudi Arabia in Tuesday’s final at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.
Saudi Arabia booked their place in the final after defeating Asian champions Qatar in a penalty shootout, setting up a highly anticipated meeting between two Gulf football rivals.
While the UAE are targeting their third Gulf Cup title, Saudi Arabia are hoping to end a wait of almost 22 years for another championship.
Emirati Fans Prepare for a Huge Atmosphere
The rapid sellout of the charter flights provides an early indication of the atmosphere expected inside the stadium.
With thousands of UAE supporters expected to make the journey to Jeddah, the national team is likely to have strong backing from the stands as it attempts to bring the Gulf Cup trophy home.
The final is set to be more than a battle between two football teams, with passionate supporters from both nations expected to create a memorable Gulf Cup atmosphere.
After reaching the final and witnessing overwhelming demand from supporters, the UAE will enter Tuesday’s showdown with confidence and strong backing.
For Emirati fans, the sold-out charter flights are another sign of the excitement surrounding the team’s title bid and hopes of ending a 13-year wait for Gulf Cup glory.