The 11th edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, to be held in Doha from next Monday until 18 December, will feature major regulatory changes aimed at strengthening the tournament’s regional and international stature.

Qatar News Agency reported on Saturday that matches in this edition will be considered official rather than friendly, with points counted in FIFA’s monthly world ranking, giving the tournament historic official recognition.

Under the new rules, participating teams will earn the same ranking points as in international friendlies, enhancing the tournament’s significance and value for teams, particularly those seeking to improve their global ranking.