Latest news with #Gulf26
Arab Times
23-02-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Bashar Abdullah praises the spectacular opening of the Gulf Cup for Veterans in Kuwait
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 23: The Director General of the Public Authority for Sports, Bashar Abdullah, commended the opening ceremony of the Gulf Cup for Veterans, which kicked off in Kuwait. In a press statement, Bashar described the ceremony as "exceptionally beautiful," highlighting the captivating drone and laser displays that engaged the audience. He emphasized that this tournament follows the successful model of "Gulf 26," recently hosted by Kuwait, which earned widespread praise. Bashar Abdullah reaffirmed Kuwait's ability to organize major sporting events, crediting its experienced sports management teams. He also praised the initiative of the Minister of Information and Culture, Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, for structuring the tournament competitively and scheduling it alongside Kuwait's national holidays, ensuring strong attendance—especially during the opening match between Kuwait and Oman. Regarding the competition, Bashar noted that while all teams are eager to win, it remains too early to predict a frontrunner for the championship title, as all teams have an equal opportunity. Despite his enthusiasm for the event, Bashar expressed regret that his administrative responsibilities prevented him from participating in the tournament with the "Blue Veterans." The group stage of the Gulf Cup for Veterans wraps up today with four decisive third-round matches: The tournament's first round saw three goalless draws in Kuwait vs. Oman, Qatar vs. UAE, and Saudi Arabia vs. Bahrain, while Iraq secured a 1-0 victory over Yemen, thanks to a goal from striker Karar Jassim. Oman coach Younis Aman hailed the opening ceremony as "dazzling," praising the vibrant laser and drone displays that captivated the audience. He noted that both players and fans are relishing the tournament, which reunites former Gulf football stars and rekindles nostalgic memories of past matches. Reflecting on his team's goalless draw against Kuwait, Aman stated: "The Blues managed the game well with their touches and skills. Although we had the upper hand, we couldn't convert our chances into goals." Qatar veteran Mubarak Mustafa also lauded the tournament's organization and expressed appreciation for Kuwait's role in hosting the inaugural edition of this prestigious Gulf event. Kuwait's Nahir Al-Shammari, shared his joy in reuniting with Gulf football legends in this championship, describing it as an opportunity to relive cherished memories of past competitions. He extended his gratitude to the event organizers for the outstanding opening ceremony. Former Oman national team goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi echoed these sentiments, expressing his appreciation for the tournament's organizers. He reminisced about his football journey, saying: "My career began in Kuwait during the Gulf tournaments, and I am honored to return here for the first-ever Gulf Veterans Cup." The Gulf Cup for Veterans continues to foster a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship while celebrating the rich history of Gulf football.
Arab Times
19-02-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Kuwait becomes a decision-maker on the global tourism map
MADRID, Feb 19: Kuwait has been unanimously elected to chair the Middle East Regional Committee of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for a renewable two-year term. Basma Al-Mayman, Director of the UNWTO's Regional Department for the Middle East, praised this milestone achievement, calling it a significant step for Kuwait as it becomes a key decision-maker on the global tourism map. In an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al-Mayman highlighted that this marks the first time in the UNWTO's history that Kuwait has been chosen to lead the committee. The decision was made during the 51st meeting of the Regional Committee, which took place in Doha, Qatar, last week. Al-Mayman explained that Kuwait will play a central role in setting the tourism policies for the region in the coming period. These policies will then influence international recommendations that will be presented to the UNWTO's Executive Council and General Assembly, ultimately impacting tourism strategies across the globe. As a founding member of the UNWTO, Kuwait has earned the unanimous trust of the Middle Eastern countries, securing its position as chair of the committee. Al-Mayman noted that this development solidifies Kuwait's growing influence in shaping the global tourism landscape. She also emphasized Kuwait's significant efforts to enhance and develop its tourism sector, which is seen as a promising industry that could complement the country's oil sector. During her two visits to Kuwait, Al-Mayman was briefed on the country's plans for tourism growth. She particularly praised the "exceptional organization" of the recent Gulf Cup Football Championship (Gulf 26), which raised the bar for hosting international events. The event's success contributed to a boom in the tourism sector, with hotel occupancy rates exceeding 99%, benefiting tourism facilities across the country. At the 51st meeting in Doha, Kuwait's Minister of Information and Culture, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, was appointed to lead the committee. In his address, Al-Mutairi emphasized the need for innovative plans and initiatives to enhance the region's tourism systems and promote inter-tourism between member states. Basma Al-Mayman also made history as the first Gulf official and the first Arab woman to hold an official position within the World Tourism Organization, further marking the region's growing leadership in global tourism affairs.
Arab Times
17-02-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Kuwait welcomes Gulf veterans for historic football tournament
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 17: The Gulf teams have started arriving in Kuwait to participate in the first Gulf Cup for veteran players, which the country will host from February 22 to 26. The Yemeni delegation was the first to arrive, coming on the evening of the day before yesterday, with the Saudi delegation expected to arrive today and the Iraqi delegation tomorrow. The other teams are set to follow over the next two days. Dr. Saleh Al-Majroob, Secretary- General of the Kuwaiti Football Association and Tournament Director, confirmed that all preparations for hosting the tournament have been completed. In a statement to the press, Al- Majroob said, 'We have finished preparing the hotels where the teams will stay, in addition to the Jaber Al- Mubarak Al-Sabah Stadium at Al- Sulaibikhat Club, which will host the competition, as well as the training fields that were allocated earlier. All logistical arrangements for the event have also been completed, including communication and transportation services.' Al-Majroob pointed out that the initiative for this tournament came from His Excellency, the Minister of Information, Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al- Mutairi, during the 'Gulf 26' tournament hosted by Kuwait from December 21 to January 4, which was a huge success and earned widespread praise. This initiative led to the establishment of a competitive tournament for veteran players who have previously participated in Gulf competitions, coinciding with Kuwait's national celebrations. He added that such tournaments aim to strengthen bonds among the Gulf nations, solidify relationships, and encourage attendance from fans of all teams in the spirit of friendship and peace. He continued: 'There is also an ongoing initiative within the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation to host this tournament alongside future tournaments, starting with 'Gulf 27,' which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia.' Al-Majroob emphasized that the Kuwaiti Football Association's President, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousuf, and board members have consistently supported the tournament to ensure its success and to showcase Kuwait's ability to host football tournaments and other sports events. At the end of his statement, Al-Majroob wished success to all participating teams and hoped for a pleasant stay and experience for all delegations and fans, welcoming everyone to their second home, Kuwait.
