emirates7 - The United Arab Emirates, through the UAE Winter Sports Federation, has officially secured the hosting rights for the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship, Division II, Group A, which is set to take place in April 2026.
The decision was announced during the International Ice Hockey Federation’s (IIHF) annual General Assembly, held in Stockholm from May 22 to 25, with representatives from 84 countries in attendance.
The UAE's proposal won by a wide margin, receiving the majority of votes over competing bids. The strong support was largely due to the country's state-of-the-art sports infrastructure and its proven ability to handle complex logistical operations—factors expected to play a key role in the event’s success.
Hamel Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Vice President of the UAE Winter Sports Federation and head of the delegation at the IIHF meetings, emphasized that winning the bid reflects the ongoing support of the nation’s leadership, the backing of the Ministry of Sports and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and the continuous efforts of Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, President of the UAE Winter Sports Federation.
The decision was announced during the International Ice Hockey Federation’s (IIHF) annual General Assembly, held in Stockholm from May 22 to 25, with representatives from 84 countries in attendance.
The UAE's proposal won by a wide margin, receiving the majority of votes over competing bids. The strong support was largely due to the country's state-of-the-art sports infrastructure and its proven ability to handle complex logistical operations—factors expected to play a key role in the event’s success.
Hamel Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Vice President of the UAE Winter Sports Federation and head of the delegation at the IIHF meetings, emphasized that winning the bid reflects the ongoing support of the nation’s leadership, the backing of the Ministry of Sports and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and the continuous efforts of Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, President of the UAE Winter Sports Federation.