UAE to host 2026 Ice Hockey World Championship
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The United Arab Emirates has secured the hosting rights for the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division II, Group A, marking a significant milestone in the nation's growing sports portfolio.
The decision was announced during the International Ice Hockey Federation’s (IIHF) General Assembly, held in Stockholm from May 22 to 25, where 84 member nations convened. The UAE’s bid won the majority of votes, outshining competing proposals with its promise of cutting-edge venues and well-established logistical infrastructure.
Scheduled for April 2026, the championship will bring together national teams from Division II Group A, offering the UAE an opportunity to showcase its capabilities in hosting international winter sports events — a rare feat for a desert nation.
Officials credited the UAE’s modern sporting facilities and organisational experience as key factors behind the successful bid. The event is expected to enhance the country’s reputation as a global hub for diverse sporting events and contribute to the broader development of ice hockey in the region.