ALDAR Properties to sponsor 18th Gulf Cup in 2007

The Cup, which has been held regularly since 1970, brings together the national teams of the GCC (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE), together with those of near neighbours Iraq and Yemen.

The competition, modelled on the well-known World Cup format, features two groups of four teams, with the two leading teams in each group proceeding to the knock-out elimination stages.

Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Chairman of ALDAR Properties, said on the occasion:

"ALDAR is very keen to extend its backing for the UAE's national sport. Alongside the World Cup, this is the competition that really excites all of us! As the real estate sponsor, we at ALDAR will do all we can to encourage visitor attendance."

"This sponsorship is part of our commitment to invest in and promote the UAE through supporting major cultural, social and sporting events."

The Gulf Cup tournament is organized by the World Sport Group a unique organization dedicated to the development of sports in the world's fastest growing and most exciting marketplace - Asia. President Pierre Kakhia welcomed ALDAR's sponsorship saying: "I would like to take the opportunity to welcome Aldar Properties as an official sponsor of the 18th Gulf Cup. Our vision for Asian sport is to create winning partnerships by marrying corporate and sporting values in a way that brings lasting benefits to all parties.

"With Aldar Properties and the other sponsors supporting the biggest football event in the Gulf region, the 18th Gulf Cup will allow the United Arab Emirates to stage one of the world's most exciting football festivals and I hope that this partnership will be the start of a future cooperation."

The 15 matches to be played in the Gulf Cup will take place in Abu Dhabi Stadia, including Zayed Sports City where the final will be held.

The Gulf Cup will be played in the UAE for only the third time. It was last held here in 1994.