ISLAMABAD: The 14th United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ambassador’s Cup Ramadan Football Tournament 2026 kicked off in Islamabad in the presence of a large gathering of diplomats, officials, and sports lovers here in the compound of the UAE mission.
The opening ceremony was attended by the acting ambassador of the United States, deputy head of mission of the United States Natalie A. Baker, ambassador of Kuwait Nassar Abdulrahman Jasser Almutairi, ambassador of Lebanon Abdulaziz Issa, high commissioner of Zimbabwe Titus Mehliswa Johnathan Abu Basutu, senior Pakistani government officials, members of the diplomatic community and football players belonging to two cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
The contesting teams of the inaugural match were introduced to the UAE ambassador Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi before start of the match. The annual tournament, hosted by the UAE embassy, aims to promote sportsmanship, cultural exchange, and community engagement during the holy month of Ramadan.
event brings together diverse communities in a spirit of friendship and mutual understanding. A total of 10 teams are competing in 22 matches throughout the tournament, offering competitive football and fostering people-to-people ties among participating nations and communities.
The Ramadan football tournament not only provides spirited competition but also reinforces Islamabad’s role as a hub for diplomatic engagement and community outreach, bringing together diverse groups in a spirit of friendship and mutual understanding. It provides a neutral, friendly arena where representatives of different nations and local communities can interact outside diplomatic settings.
