World Mini Football World Cup – Ras Al Khaimah – UAE.

The UN’s World Tourism Organisation estimates that the industry will reach £700 billion by 2025 accelerated by global sporting events which have catapulted the Middle East into the fastest growing sports tourism destination in the world.

“We are building on our strong track record for hosting global sports events, with over 50 events held each year. This year, Ras Al Khaimah will be hosting the region’s first Minifootball World Cup – a major international competition held every two years – which will bring 32 national teams and their fans to the Emirate in November 2023. This marks another milestone in our strategy to promote Ras Al Khaimah as a destination for athleticism and major sporting events”, says Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) CEO, Raki Phillips.

“We look forward to seeing the World Cup’s legacy continue to grow and attract more fans to this unique sport and encourage wholesome athletic pursuits not only in the UAE, but on an international scale. The enthusiastic support we have received from the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and the people of the Emirate validates the original decision to select Ras Al Khaimah as our host.”, says Filip Juda, President of The World Minifootball Federation (WMF).

Taking place from October 26th to November 4th, the 2023 edition in Ras Al Khaimah promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the sport.

Under the banner “Home For Everyday Legends”, the 2023 World Cup will showcase the skills and passion for minifootball from around the world, merging them with Ras Al Khaimah landmarks and cultural aspects to excite players and fans alike for this year’s tournament. It also highlights how relatable the game is to amateur players and enthusiasts while magnifying the importance and capabilities of the talented players and giving them the legendary status, they deserve. The goal is to inspire viewers to appreciate the sport beyond the professional level and recognize the skills and talent that exists within minifootball communities.

Expected to bring thousands of spectators to Ras Al Khaimah, the competition cements the destination’s reputation for staging international sporting events. The Emirate already plays host to a growing number of high-profile events, including the RAK Half Marathon, the world’s fastest half marathon, the road cycling competition UAE Tour as well as renowned international golf championship, the DP World Tour.

In addition to the significant tourism development and economic benefits that hosting the 2023 Minifootball World Cup will deliver, the Authority believes the tournament will act as a springboard for the promotion of minifootball in the UAE and beyond, encouraging more residents and visitors to play the sport, in line with the Emirate’s objectives to foster liveability as well as engaging with local schools and sports clubs.

Ras Al Khaimah is the ideal location for minifootball fans and spectators, with a whole host of things to do in between games. Outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and even take on the world’s longest zipline. There is also 64km of stunning coastline, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the white sandy beach. Additionally, visitors can delve into the region’s history and culture by exploring its forts, museums, and the much-loved Suwaidi Pearl Farm, or discover the Emirate’s diverse range of shopping and dining options. With many direct flights available from the UK and Ireland to the UAE, the Emirate is also easily accessible.

The term ‘minifootball’ means small-sided football. Open to amateur players, the sport is characterized by its dynamism, passion, and intensity, ensuring an exciting experience for both players and spectators. The Minifootball World Cup is a biennial tournament and the sport’s premier event, attracting national teams from around the world to compete for the title of Minifootball World Champions.