KUWAIT: Zain has welcomed Kuwait Airways as the official carrier of Khaleeji Zain 26 (the Arabian Gulf Cup), which will be hosted by Kuwait from December 21, 2024 to January 3, 2025. The two companies have signed a strategic partnership to enrich the experience of the tournament’s guests, a step that embodies the collaboration between public and private sector institutions to ensure the success of the region’s premier sporting event. The partnership was signed at Kuwait Airways’ headquarters, with the attendance of the company’s Chairman, Captain Abdulmohsen Alfagaan, CEO of Zain Kuwait, Nawaf Al-Gharabally, CEO of Kuwait Airways, Captain Ahmad Al-Kuraibani, and other executives from both companies.
Under this partnership, the visual identity of Khaleeji Zain 26 will be integrated into Kuwait Airways’ operations, including on aircraft flying to and from participating countries, the Terminal 4 building that is dedicated to welcoming visitors and guests, and cabin crew uniforms. Special and exclusive offers will also be available for guests, aiming to deliver a delightful and comfortable travel experience from Kuwait Airways, paired with an enriching and innovative digital experience from Zain.
On this occasion, Chairman of Kuwait Airways, Captain Abdulmohsen Alfagaan, said, "Kuwait Airways is honored to host the signing ceremony for the partnership agreement with Zain for the Khaleeji Zain 26 competition. This tournament, being held on Kuwaiti soil, holds a special place in the hearts of football enthusiasts in Kuwait and across the Arab world. This partnership reflects Kuwait Airways’ commitment to being close to the Kuwaiti and Gulf communities in all its facets and activities, emphasizing the importance of the national carrier’s role in supporting sports events. It also highlights our ongoing efforts to contribute to the growth of tourism, which is a key aspect of Kuwait’s governmental framework. We consider it both a duty and a national responsibility to provide all forms of support for such occasions.”
Captain Alfagaan expressed deep appreciation for the significant role Zain plays in advancing the telecommunications sector in Kuwait and the region. He praised the importance of collaboration between national institutions to achieve shared goals and support the local economy, highlighting the pivotal role national companies play in contributing to the success of events like Khaleeji Zain 26.
He also pointed out that this partnership aligns with Kuwait Airways’ strategy to expand cooperation with local companies to serve mutual interests and enhance its competitiveness in the market. Alfagaan emphasized the importance of continued coordination and joint work to strengthen national partnerships that serve mutual interests and enhance Kuwait’s position as a leading regional hub for both telecommunications and air transport.
He also mentioned that Kuwait Airways spares no effort in supporting and promoting meaningful events that attract public interest, with a special focus on supporting sports and athletes as part of the company’s CSR policy, demonstrating a continued commitment to empowering youth and providing them with necessary support. Alfagaan further noted that Kuwait Airways aims to elevate Kuwait’s position through offering the best services to official delegations, fans, and travelers, utilizing all the company’s resources for those traveling to and from Gulf countries and around the world via Terminal 4 and on board the national carrier’s aircraft, ensuring a distinguished, comfortable, and safe travel experience.
Concluding his remarks, Alfagaan said, "This agreement is a fruitful and important one that significantly contributes to achieving our goals and raising Kuwait’s profile globally through successful partnerships with national companies. We appreciate Zain’s tangible efforts in building strong and productive relationships across both government and private sectors as a key driver of telecommunications technology development.”
Zain Kuwait CEO Nawaf Al-Gharabally commented: "We’re thrilled to welcome Kuwait’s Blue Bird as the Official Carrier of Khaleeji Zain 26, and this partnership will further bolster the national identity embodied by this tournament. Both Zain and Kuwait Airways are among Kuwait’s most established national organizations, pioneers in their respective sectors, and today we join hands to highlight the spirit of Gulf unity and competitiveness that this tournament represents.”
He added: "This partnership is a continuation and extension of our fruitful collaboration over the years with Kuwait Airways, and through it, we look forward to jointly contribute to realizing the vision of the nation’s leadership for the success of Khaleeji Zain 26 and to welcoming Kuwait’s guests.” He concluded: "The national carrier’s official presence in the tournament will greatly enhance the collective efforts being made to deliver an exceptional edition of this beloved tournament, and we are committed to providing the best experience for fans and lovers of Gulf football.”
Zain Group recently announced its role as the Title Partner of the tournament, now branded as Khaleeji Zain for the second consecutive time. Kuwait will host this historic sporting event for the fifth time in its history, and Zain warmly welcomes Gulf teams and delegations to this premier regional event. Zain is reaffirming its commitment to supporting major sporting events, enhancing Kuwait’s position as a key player in regional sports, boosting the development of football among the youth.
The Arabian Gulf Cup, which began in 1970, has solidified its place as one of the most prominent sporting events in the region. The football competition underscores the unity, deep-rooted relations, and shared heritage of Gulf nations. Zain will utilize its resources and national talents to ensure this edition of the tournament leaves fans with unforgettable memories. In addition, the company plans to engage football enthusiasts through a series of interactive events and programs like fan zones, social media contests, giveaways, and more.