Middle East GAA and AICC extend partnership for 2025/26 season

Middle East GAA are delighted to announce the renewal of its sponsorship agreement with Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce (AICC) for a fifth successive season.

This year’s Middle East League will feature four rounds of adult competition across Ladies Football, Men’s Football, Camogie, Hurling and Handball. The season began with Round 1 of football in late September and will finish with the final tournament in Ras Al Khaimah on March 7th, spanning 10 weekends across seven cities in three countries.

Founded in 1987, the AICC works to strengthen commercial, industrial, tourism and financial links between Arab countries and Ireland, and continues to play an important role in supporting Irish organisations and communities across the region.

Ahmad Younis, Secretary-General and CEO of the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce, said, “The GAA has become one of the most vibrant bridges between Ireland and the Middle East. What began as a sporting outlet for the Irish diaspora has evolved into a genuinely shared sporting culture, with players from 32 nationalities, including an increasing number of Arab participants, now taking to the field.

“This remarkable growth shows how sport can transcend borders and bring communities together. The Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce is proud to support a movement that mirrors our own goals, strengthening trade, collaboration and friendship between our two regions, both on and off the pitch.”

Ahmad Younis, Secretary-General and CEO of AICC

Robbie Corcoran, Chairperson of Middle East GAA, said, “We're delighted to continue our partnership with the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce for the upcoming season of the Middle East League. Ahmad and everyone at AICC have been great supporters of Gaelic Games in the region, and renewing the partnership for a fifth successive season reflects the shared values and strong relationship between our organisations.”

This renewed partnership is another positive step for the GAA season ahead and reflects the strong links between the Irish community and the wider Middle East region.