The Gulf Cup final between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, held at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, was marred by significant fan unrest. According to reports, the atmosphere was highly charged, with spectators booing the national anthems of the opposing teams before the match began.

During the event, the situation escalated as fans were observed throwing bottles at UAE players on the pitch. The hostility extended beyond the stadium walls, where physical altercations reportedly took place. Witnesses and reports suggest that Emirati fans were involved in scuffles, including kicking and shoving incidents with Saudi supporters outside the venue. The match, described as ill-tempered, highlights the intense regional rivalries that can manifest during high-stakes sporting events. While the specific triggers for the violence remain under investigation, the event has drawn attention to the security challenges associated with hosting matches between these two nations during periods of heightened regional tension.