UAE double charter flights for Saudi Arabia final after surge in demand

The United Arab Emirates Football Association has increased the number of charter flights taking supporters to Jeddah for Tuesday’s Gulf Cup 27 final against Saudi Arabia from six to 12.

The decision follows what the association described as a significant response from fans wishing to travel and support the UAE national team, known as “The Whites”, in the final.

The UAE Football Association initially arranged six private aircraft to make it easier for supporters to attend the match. However, after the available places were filled, the number of flights was doubled to increase the size of the team’s travelling support.

The final will be played on Tuesday at Alinma Stadium, part of King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the association confirmed that the required number of supporters had initially been reached for the charter travel arrangements. It later announced the increase to 12 aircraft in response to the strong demand.

Registration for the flights is available in accordance with the stated terms and conditions, with places to remain open only until the required capacity has been completed. The association’s announcement included a booking link and said registration would close once all available places had been taken.

The UAE reached the Gulf Cup 27 final for the fourth time in its history after beating Oman 1-0 in the semi-final.

The team has won the competition twice, lifting the trophy in 2007 and 2013. Saudi Arabia have claimed the Gulf Cup three times, with their most recent success coming in 2003.

Tuesday’s match will therefore bring together two sides with a significant history in the tournament, with the UAE seeking a third title and Saudi Arabia aiming to add to its previous three victories.

The increase in charter flights means twice as many supporters can be accommodated compared with the original travel plan, underlining the level of interest among UAE fans ahead of the final.