The United Arab Emirates national football team faces Oman tonight in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, with the nation on the verge of ending a 35-year wait for a place in the prestigious tournament. The match is scheduled to kick off at 9:15 pm UAE time at the Hamad bin Jassim Stadium in Doha.
Thousands of Emirati fans have travelled to the Qatari capital to support the team, with tickets for the highly anticipated match completely sold out. Social media videos captured the vibrant atmosphere on Friday night, showing supporters filling the streets of Souq Waqif, singing patriotic songs and waving the UAE flag.
A Nation Rallies Behind the Team
The outpouring of support is backed by official initiatives. The UAE Football Association (UAEFA) organised five private planes to transport fans to Doha as part of its “A Homeland’s Dream” campaign. The campaign aims to rally the community behind the national team, known as the ‘Whites’, during their final push in the Asian play-offs.
In a further show of support for the travelling fans, telecommunications company e& announced it would provide 2GB of free roaming data for customers in Doha for the match.
Two Wins from History
The UAE’s last and only appearance at a World Cup finals was in Italy in 1990. Now, the team has a significant opportunity to return to the global stage. They are currently competing in Group A of the fourth round of Asian qualifiers alongside Oman and Qatar. The group winner will secure a direct spot at the 2026 World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The team’s position was helped after Qatar and Oman drew in a previous AFC World Cup qualifier, leaving the group finely balanced. Following tonight’s game against Oman, the UAE will play their final match against Qatar on 14 October. Two victories would guarantee their place and end the long wait for another World Cup appearance.
