The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest football event in history, hosted across three nations for the first time: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and over a month of non-stop global excitement, fans in the UAE will be looking for the best ways to catch every goal, save, and celebration, and searching for where to watch the World Cup near me.
Whether you prefer the comfort of your home screen or the electric atmosphere of a fan zone, this guide covers everything you need to know about watching the 2026 World Cup in the UAE.
- Overview of the 2026 World Cup
- UAE national team participation
- Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in the UAE
- Legal considerations
- Tips for the best viewing experience
- A comparison of viewing options in the UAE
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Overview of the 2026 World Cup
The upcoming World Cup will be historic, both in scale and structure. Here’s what you need to know before the tournament kicks off.
Tournament Details
- Dates: June 11 to July 19, 2026
- Hosts: United States, Canada, and Mexico
- Number of matches: 104 across 16 cities
- New format: 48 teams (expanded from the previous 32)
UAE national team participation
As of October 2025, the UAE still competes in the qualification play-offs. While their official place has yet to be confirmed, hopes remain high among local fans who will be tuning in to cheer them on.
Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in the UAE
Football fever is set to grip the world once again as the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws near. Fans in the UAE have plenty of ways to be part of the excitement. Whether you’re tuning in from home, catching the action at one of Dubai’s electric fan zones, or gathering with friends in a sports lounge, the tournament promises to unite fans across time zones and nationalities in true global spirit.
Official broadcasts in the UAE
BeIN Sports holds the official broadcasting rights for the 2026 World Cup across the Middle East and North Africa region, just as it did for previous editions.
You can anticipate dedicated Arabic and English coverage, expert commentary, and exclusive pre-match and post-match analysis.
Also, you should check BeIN Sports’ official website and TV schedules closer to the event for:
- Subscription packages
- Channel listings
- Matchday highlights
Online streaming options
- BeIN Sports Connect: Offers live online streaming for subscribers with multi-device access.
- FIFA+: FIFA’s own digital platform may feature highlights, interviews, and select live matches.
Public viewing options to watch the 2026 World Cup
Nothing matches the thrill of watching a World Cup game surrounded by fellow fans. Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, major hotels, lounges, and sports bars transform into vibrant fan zones during the tournament.
Where to watch the World Cup Near Me
Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, major hotels, lounges, and restaurants transform into vibrant fan zones during the tournament.
Watch live football on the big screen at Cinemacity.
Get ready to experience every pass, goal, and heart-stopping moment in full cinematic glory. Cinemacity has thrilled fans with live screenings of major qualifiers before, and come the 2026 World Cup, it’s expected to do it again; it’s bringing the roar of the stadium to the big screen for football lovers across the UAE.
Free screenings at hotels and malls
As excitement builds, several hotels and shopping malls across Dubai and Abu Dhabi are also expected to announce free live screenings in public spaces and atriums. These pop-up fan zones have become a World Cup tradition in the UAE, drawing families, tourists, and die-hard fans alike. Expect large LED screens, comfortable seating, and festive atmospheres—turning every corner of the city into a shared celebration of the world’s biggest sporting spectacle.
Catch the action at sports lounges and restaurants across the UAE
From casual bites to full-blown fan zones, many of the UAE’s favourite sports lounges and restaurants are expected to bring the 2026 World Cup to life on their big screens.
1. Barasti
A Dubai classic, Barasti is famous for its beachside energy, open-air match screenings, and lively atmosphere that keeps fans celebrating long after the final whistle.
Location
It’s located at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh Road, Dubai.
Contact Information
- Phone: +971 4 511 7373
- Instagram: @barastibeach
2. Belgian Café
Known for its European charm, hearty food, and lively pub-style vibe, Belgian Café is perfect for fans who love a good pint and a bustling match-day atmosphere.
Location
It’s located at Crowne Plaza, Dubai Festival City, Dubai.
Contact Information
- Phone: +971 4 701 1127
- Instagram: @belgiancafedubaifestivalcity
3. The Irish Village
A long-time favourite among football fans, The Irish Village serves up hearty meals, cold drinks, and a crowd that brings all the passion of the game.
Location
It’s located on 31A St, Al Garhoud, Dubai.
Contact Information
- Phone: +971 4 241 8444
- Instagram: @theirishvillagedubai
4. McGettigan’s JLT
One of Dubai’s most popular sports hangouts, McGettigan’s offers multiple big screens, enthusiastic fans, and great match-night deals on drinks and food.
Location
It’s located in Cluster J, Bonnington Hotel, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Dubai.
Contact Information
- Phone: +971 50 672 3682
- Instagram: @mcgettigansjlt
5. Coterie Social
With its relaxed, community feel and easy-going setup, Coterie Social is ideal for casual match viewing with friends over good food and drinks.
Location
It’s located at Level 1, China Court, Ibn Battuta Mall, Jebel Ali Village, Dubai.
Contact Information
- Phone: +971 4 570 8072
- Instagram: @the.coterie.group
6. Brighton Rock Restaurant
A British-inspired sports dining spot that delivers lively energy, themed décor, and plenty of big-screen action — it even hosted recent qualifiers with flair.
Location
It’s located in the Hilton Hotel, The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Dubai.
Contact Information
- Phone: +971 58 552 7017
- Instagram: @brightonrockjbr
7. Soho Garden DXB
For fans who prefer a stylish experience, Soho Garden combines high-energy match screenings with themed events and an upscale party vibe.
Location
It’s located in Racecourse, Grand Stand, Al Meydan Rd, Nadd Al Shiba First, Dubai.
Contact Information
- Phone: +971 56 793 3366
- Instagram: @sohogardendxb
Legal considerations
Always use official broadcasters or licensed venues when watching the World Cup. Unauthorised streaming or public screening without permission can breach UAE copyright and broadcasting laws.
Tips for the best viewing experience
Whether you are planning to catch the matches at home, in a cinema, or surrounded by fellow fans at a lively fan zone, a little preparation can make all the difference.
Subscription packages
- Early-bird pricing on BeIN Sports packages may be available closer to June 2026.
- Consider bundle offers that include multiple sports channels or streaming access.
Venue booking
- For popular matches, especially semi-finals and finals, book early.
- Some fan zones may charge an entry fee or minimum spend for premium seating.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the pre-match buzz.
A comparison of viewing options in the UAE
Here’s a quick look at how the different viewing options compare so you can pick the one that suits your match-day mood best.
| Option | Description | Requirements |
| BeIN Sports TV | Official broadcaster with Arabic and English commentary | Satellite TV subscription, possible fees |
| BeIN Sports Connect | Online live streaming on multiple devices | Active BeIN account, stable internet |
| FIFA+ | Potential highlights, interviews, and free content | Internet connection, registration |
| Sports and fan zones | Public big-screen experiences, themed events | Reservation, entry fees for select venues |
Key takeaways
UAE residents will be able to watch the 2026 World Cup through official broadcasters and streaming platforms that hold regional rights, ensuring high-quality coverage of every match. Those looking for a more immersive experience can head to popular fan zones across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, or visit lively venues like Barasti, McGettigan’s, and The Irish Village, each known for their vibrant football atmosphere.
With local venues and communities expected to host viewing events, fans can look forward to an atmosphere that blends world-class sport with the UAE’s vibrant hospitality, making every goal, save, and victory feel closer than ever.
FAQs
As of October 2025, the UAE is in the qualification play-offs and has not yet secured a spot in the tournament.
BeIN Sports is the expected official broadcaster, available via TV or online through BeIN Sports Connect.
Yes, you can through BeIN Sports Connect or FIFA+, though most services require registration or a paid plan.
Using VPNs to bypass local streaming restrictions may violate platform policies or UAE law. Stick to official services for compliance.
Venues like Barasti, The Irish Village, and Soho Garden are top choices for their festive match-day setups. Book early, as spaces fill fast for major games.
