ISLAMABAD: The 14th United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ambassador’s Cup Ramadan Football Tournament 2026 concluded with an impressive closing ceremony at the UAE Embassy in Islamabad around midnight on Thursday, highlighting ties between Pakistan and the UAE.

Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi emphasised that Pakistan and the UAE share decades of trust, cooperation and strong people-to-people connections.

“The Pakistani community in the UAE and the growing partnership in trade, investment and culture continue to strengthen this special relationship,” he said. He noted that the tournament was more than just a football competition. “It has been a celebration of friendship, teamwork and the strong bonds that unite us, especially the historic and brotherly relationship between Pakistan and the UAE.”

The ambassador highlighted the unifying power of sport, stating that football speaks a universal language and brings people together across cultures.

During the holy month of Ramazan such gatherings hold special significance, he said.

“The values we practice in Ramazan are the same values we see on the field,” he added, while thanking the participating teams from diplomatic missions and UAE companies for their enthusiasm and sportsmanship.

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar attended the ceremony as chief guest. He distributed prizes among the players alongside the UAE ambassador and President of the Pakistan Football Federation Syed Mohsen Gilani. Speaking on the occasion, he appreciated the UAE Embassy for holding the event and praised the performance of the players.

Gerrys emerged champions after defeating Qatar Embassy 5-2 in a thrilling final. Khayam Khattak scored a hat-trick, while Saqib Anwar added another goal to secure a commanding victory. Muhammad Abu netted for Qatar Embassy, but his effort was not enough to change the outcome. In the third-place playoff, Afghanistan defeated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) team 4-1.

Organised by the UAE Embassy in collaboration with the Pakistan Football Federation, which provided full technical support, the annual tournament featured 10 teams competing in 22 matches. The event showcased competitive football while strengthening connections among diverse communities.

The ceremony was attended by Member of the National Assembly Syeda Amnah Batool, ambassadors of Morocco, Lebanon, Afghanistan and Libya, the Deputy Head of Mission of Romania, senior Pakistani officials, members of the diplomatic corps and media representatives.

Published in Dawn, February 28th, 2026