The International Ice Hockey Federation awarded Kuwait hosting rights for the Division IV World Championship scheduled in April 2027, the Kuwait Ice Hockey Federation announced after the IIHF General Assembly held in Zurich on May 29, 2026. This comes after the 2026 tournament, originally planned for April 12 to 18 in Kuwait City, was postponed on March 18 and later cancelled due to the Iran war, according to IIHF records. The decision followed strong member support and built upon preparations already advanced for the prior event, as detailed in local reporting.
The Times Kuwait reported that federation president Fahad Al-Ajmi conveyed the news to the Kuwait News Agency, with technical director Meshaal Al-Ajmi present at the assembly. Al-Ajmi praised the country’s organizational efforts, particularly following the national team’s bronze medal performance in the previous edition. He also welcomed the concurrent awarding of Division II hosting rights to the United Arab Emirates, underscoring the growing capacity of Gulf states to organize such competitions. Support from Tariq Al-Jalahma and the Public Authority for Sport was highlighted as crucial.
Arab Times had reported in February 2026 that the Winter Sports Club had formed a Supreme Organizing Committee shortly after the IIHF’s announcement in October of the previous year. The committee included subcommittees dedicated to logistics, finance, facility preparation, technical matters, public relations and media relations. Upgrades to the Kuwait Ice Skating Rink were progressing to meet international standards. Arrangements for accommodation, transportation, ceremonial events and spectator activities were also advancing.
The host nation’s team had been set to undergo training in Sweden prior to a local camp, with Al-Ajmi voicing confidence in a competitive showing at the time. Those training plans and infrastructure improvements will now be redirected toward the 2027 edition. According to the IIHF tournament calendar, the event remains listed for Kuwait City.
The same six teams that were slated for the 2026 tournament are expected to participate, including host Kuwait along with Singapore, Armenia, Iran, Indonesia and Malaysia, according to the original announcement by KUNA. This will provide the national side with an opportunity to build on its recent achievements on home ice. The federation has indicated that preparations will commence immediately to fulfill all IIHF requirements for the rescheduled competition.
The IIHF’s website lists the 2027 Division IV Group A tournament in Kuwait for next year, confirming the renewal of hosting duties. This marks the second time Kuwait has been selected, according to federation updates on its hockeykuwait.com platform. Al-Ajmi emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with national authorities and sponsors.
