KUWAIT CITY, Jan 7: A specialized report by Express Consulting and Business Management Company has concluded that the total financial return from the "Gulf Zain 26" Championship amounted to 61 million dinars (approximately 197 million dollars). The report indicates that sports fans spent an average of 118 dinars per day during the event, leading to an estimated daily spending of 4 million dinars.

The report, issued yesterday, highlighted that sports have become an integral part of modern business, both in the private and public sectors, due to their strong emotional connection with the market and customers. It emphasized that through sports, businesses can bridge gaps, target specific market segments, and influence customer sentiment, as these events are linked to people’s emotions.

The total attendance for the championship matches reached around 400,000 spectators, with each match attracting about 26,000 attendees. These matches not only fostered connections among Gulf countries but also showcased the organization’s capabilities. Attending 15 matches, spectators gained insights into the culture of the Kuwaiti people and the ability of local institutions to organize such large-scale events, which could positively influence perceptions and mental images of Kuwait.

The report also distinguished between visitors and match attendees, noting that while the number of visitors differs from the number of fans attending matches, approximately 69,000 sports fans visited Kuwait for the event. Of these, 44.9% arrived via Kuwait's airports, while the remaining percentage entered through land ports. The report further stated that visitors shared their positive experiences with their social circles, potentially influencing 2.1 million people. If each visitor had 10 close associates, 3.4% of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) population would have formed a positive impression of Kuwait’s organizational efficiency.

Regarding media exposure, the report revealed that 10 sports channels from participating countries broadcast the Gulf Zain 26 matches, with an estimated 16 million viewers across all matches. These broadcasts reached 26.1% of the total GCC population. Additionally, 25 sports programs aired at various times, and the tournament's marketing efforts were instrumental in its success. These included street advertisements, newspaper and magazine promotions, sports analysis programs, social media campaigns, and promotional offers.

The report also emphasized the significance of the organizing committee’s activities, which were spread across multiple locations in Kuwait, including Murooj Square, The Walk, Al Shaheed Park, Makashat, The Avenues Mall, 360 Mall, Souq Sharq, and Mubarakiya. These activities attracted around 4.2 million people over the 15 days of the tournament.

According to the report, the success of the 2024 Arabian Gulf Cup can be attributed to several factors, including the passion and active participation of the Kuwaiti people, who contributed to the tournament's organization. Their politeness, hospitality, and love for others made the event a memorable success. The collaboration between state institutions and the private sector also played a key role in overcoming challenges and achieving the strategic vision of hosting international events. The successful opening of Jaber Stadium within record time was another significant milestone.

The overall impression left by the tournament was one of appreciation and respect from the participating teams, reinforcing Kuwait's positive image. This contributed to exceeding expectations and ensuring complete satisfaction with the event's organization.

Naif Bastaki, CEO of Express Company, highlighted the continuous development efforts required to achieve even more promising future versions of the Arabian Gulf Cup. He noted that the championship strengthened the bond among Gulf nations and brought positive contributions to the host country, emphasizing the need for ongoing progress to enhance the event’s success in the years to come.