Sunday June 28, 2026
Kuwait City (HOL) — Somali international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has arrived in Kuwait City on Friday after receiving an official invitation to officiate a top-flight league match between Kuwait SC and Al-Qadsiya on June 29, 2026.
The invitation was extended by Kuwait Football Association Chairman Sheikh Ahmed Al-Yusuf.
Artan was received in Kuwait by Somalia’s ambassador to Kuwait, Abdullahi Mohamed Sheikh, along with officials from the Kuwait Football Association and representatives of Al-Shaayic Company.
His reception reflected both the sporting and diplomatic significance of the visit, which coincides with Somalia’s Independence Day commemorations.
The Kuwait Football Association’s direct invitation underscores its confidence in Artan’s ability to manage a high-profile match between two of Kuwait’s most prominent clubs.
Artan’s appointment adds to a growing record of Somali referees receiving recognition beyond Africa, as Somali match officials increasingly take part in Gulf and international competitions.
Artan, a FIFA-listed Somali referee, recently drew international attention after he was denied entry to the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he had been expected to officiate.
He is also expected to officiate the European Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, further strengthening his profile as one of Somalia’s most prominent international football officials.
His presence in Kuwait on Somalia’s 66th Independence Day has been welcomed by Somali sports supporters as a symbol of the country’s expanding role in professional football and international sporting institutions.
