Wednesday 10 / June / 2026
MUSCAT: As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off today, some football fans from Oman have travelled thousands of kilometres to support their favourite teams on football’s biggest stage.
With flights booked, match tickets secured and itineraries carefully planned, supporters have already arrived in the United States, Canada and Mexico to experience the excitement of the month-long tournament firsthand.
For some, the journey is a chance to relive the unforgettable memories of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
For others, it marks a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the world’s most prestigious football competition in person for the very first time.
Driven by their passion for the game, fans are joining thousands of supporters from across the globe as they prepare to cheer on their teams and soak up the unique atmosphere that only the World Cup can offer.
Among them is Muscat resident M Singh, who is currently in Canada and hopes to attend two matches during the tournament.
“We already booked tickets for Canada vs Bosnia & Herzegovina game on 12 June,” Singh said.
Adding to the excitement, former Oman captain and legendary goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi shared a message with football fans ahead of the opening match. “The World Cup is hours away. Buckle up,” he said.
For those unable to travel abroad, World Cup fever is set to be felt across Oman, from Muscat to the country’s smaller towns and villages.
In the picturesque mountain village of Bilad Sayt in the Wilayat of Bahla, organisers have transformed the traditional market and heritage alleyways into a unique football fan destination. A giant screen has been installed, offering supporters the chance to watch matches amid the village’s historic surroundings.
The event will feature not only live match screenings but also entertainment programmes and cultural activities highlighting the village’s traditions and social customs. Organisers hope the initiative will boost tourism, support the local economy and reinforce the role of heritage sites as attractive destinations for visitors.
Meanwhile, football enthusiasts can also catch the action on the big screen through VOX Cinemas, which is broadcasting World Cup matches across Oman and other Gulf countries. “Whether you’re supporting your home nation or following a fan favourite, VOX Cinemas offers front-row seats to the biggest tournament in football history,” the company said.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 makes history as the first edition to be jointly hosted by three nations — United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament, which begins on June 11 (Thursday) at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, is also the largest in World Cup
history, featuring 48 teams and a record 104 matches.
Eight Arab nations will be represented at the tournament: Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.
The tournament will culminate on July 19 at MetLife Stadium, where the world champions will be crowned.
