KUWAIT: Since the Gulf Cup (Khaleeji Zain 26) kicked off on December 21, fans from across the Arabian Gulf region have been gathering in Souq Al-Mubarkiya to cheer on their teams. Among them was Haidar Ali from Iraq, who, despite his national team’s early exit in the group stage, remained upbeat about his visit. “While we didn’t make it past the group stage, our performance against Bahrain and Saudi Arabia was underwhelming,” Ali told Kuwait Times.

Ali, who had previously witnessed Iraq’s victory in the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup, was disheartened by the team’s decline this year. Similarly, Alhasan Al-Magabial, another Iraqi fan, attributed the team’s struggles to tactical experimentation and lack of cohesion. Yet, Al-Magabial, like many others, praised Kuwait for its hospitality, likening Souq Al-Mubarkiya to Iraq’s bustling Al-Shorja market. “The food here is incredible—Mrabian has been a highlight of my trip,” he said.

KUWAIT: People from across the Arabian Gulf region gather in Souq Al-Mubarakiya to enjoy Kuwait's cultural heritage, sample traditional cuisine, while cheering on their national teams, during the Khaleeji Zain 26 tournament. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

KUWAIT: People from across the Arabian Gulf region gather in Souq Al-Mubarakiya to enjoy Kuwait's cultural heritage, sample traditional cuisine, while cheering on their national teams, during the Khaleeji Zain 26 tournament. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

KUWAIT: People from across the Arabian Gulf region gather in Souq Al-Mubarakiya to enjoy Kuwait's cultural heritage, sample traditional cuisine, while cheering on their national teams, during the Khaleeji Zain 26 tournament. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Visitors take pictures of Haydo, the official mascot for the Khaleeji Zain 26, at Souq Al-Mubarakiya.

Vendors set up shop at Safat Square near Souq Al-Mubarakiya, for a pop-up market held during the Khaleeji Zain 26 tournament.

Visitors browse the stalls where local Kuwaiti businesses are showcasing their offerings during a pop-up market held at Safat Square near Souq Al-Mubarakiya.

A folk Kuwaiti group performs at Safat Square.

For Mohammad Abaza, a Saudi fan, the Gulf Cup was more than just a tournament—it was a celebration of unity. “The football fever in Kuwait is contagious. It feels like all of the Gulf is united, regardless of the results,” he said. Abaza, who spent time exploring Souq Al-Mubarkiya, couldn’t resist buying souvenirs for his family and checking out the renowned thoub fabrics. Confident in Saudi Arabia’s chances, he added: “Saudi Arabia will win the Gulf Cup this year. Our team’s performance was outstanding and I’m looking forward to the next match. It’s going to be epic.” Abaza indicated that Kuwaitis and expats welcome their guests warmly, noting: “Me and my friends felt we are at home. Everyone offers to help us, show us around, or invite us over to their houses.”

Qatari fan Abdullah Al-Mansouri’s experience was defined by the spirit of camaraderie rather than victory. Despite his team’s loss, Al-Mansouri relished his time in Kuwait, visiting cultural landmarks like the Mirror House and Kuwait Towers. “Football is a universal language. After our team’s setback, we are cheering for Kuwait,” he said, expressing excitement for the upcoming matches. “We are ready to cheer wildly, and we went shopping yesterday for flags and t-shirts of the Kuwaiti team.”