The Asian Football Confederation conducted the official draw on July 16, 2026 at its headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the qualifiers of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027. The AFC reported that 30 teams will feature in the qualifiers, two more than the previous record of 28 set in 2019. UAE was placed in Group A as part of the process that divided entrants into four pots based on rankings.
UAE drawn in Group A of AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027 qualifiers alongside Saudi Arabia, the AFC confirmed in its announcement of the groups. The qualifiers are scheduled to take place in October 2026 across various venues with the top teams advancing to the finals. A further draw for the group stage of the finals tournament will be held in December 2026, the AFC stated.
The AFC figures show this will be the ninth edition of the qualifiers since their introduction ahead of the 2009 tournament. Eleven teams including the UAE are hoping to reach the finals for the first time, according to AFC data. Bhutan will also make their debut in the qualifiers during this campaign.
The finals of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup China 2027 will be hosted by China from March 31 to April 17, 2027 with venues yet to be confirmed by the organising committee. The competition serves as a key development pathway for women’s football across the continent. Previous editions have seen consistent growth in participation levels since the inaugural event.
AFC records indicate that the qualifiers determine the teams joining automatic qualifiers for the finals. The expanded field reflects increasing interest in women’s youth football across Asia. National associations have prepared their squads for the intensified competition schedule that spans multiple matchdays in a short period.
