United Arab Emirates men's national ice hockey team

Lore & Background

In June 2008, the UAE took part in the inaugural Arab Cup in Abu Dhabi, involving Algeria, Morocco, and Kuwait, and won the gold medal after defeating Kuwait 4–1. They also won gold in the 2009 IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia, also in Abu Dhabi. In 2010, the UAE became the first Arab nation to play in the IIHF World Championship, participating in Division III. Although unranked at the time, they played against Ireland, Luxembourg, and Greece, finishing last in Group A with four losses. Their new head coach was Teemu Taruvuori of Finland. In May 2010, the UAE participated in the Kuwaiti-organized GCC Gulf Championship, finishing first after winning all three games.

Reader's Guide

The UAE team's significance lies in its pioneering role as the first Arab nation to enter the IIHF World Championship system, beginning in 2010. Its early successes in regional tournaments—the inaugural Arab Cup in 2008 and the 2009 IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia—established it as a competitive force within the Arab and Asian ice hockey community. The team's withdrawal from the 2011 Division III tournament in Cape Town, South Africa, because they refused to compete against Israel, and their withdrawal from the 2016 Division III tournament with no reason cited, mark notable political and organizational decisions in its history. As of 2025, the team competes in Division II Group A of the World Championships and holds a world ranking of 32nd, reflecting its gradual ascent in international ice hockey.

Did You Know?

• The UAE won the gold medal at the inaugural Arab Cup in Abu Dhabi in June 2008, defeating Kuwait 4–1.
• The UAE withdrew from the 2011 Division III tournament because they refused to compete against Israel.