AWST 2026 volleyball gains FIVB approval, AVC refereeing status

January 28, 2026 / 2:00 PM

Sharjah24: Volleyball competitions at the eighth Arab Women’s Sports Tournament (AWST 2026) have received official approval from the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and refereeing accreditation from the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC), marking a significant technical milestone for the tournament.

The FIVB approval confirms that AWST 2026 volleyball matches will be played under internationally sanctioned regulations and officially recorded within the global volleyball framework. This enables participating athletes to earn international ranking points and ensures their performances contribute to recognised evaluation and classification pathways, thereby adding greater competitive value to the tournament.

In parallel, the AVC has classified the event as a Zonal Level Competition, enabling it to be recognised within the Asian International Referee Candidates Course (AIRCC). The accreditation includes the appointment of an official AVC referee supervisor to oversee match governance, ensure officiating standards, and submit certified technical reports after the competition.

Six teams, five nations

Volleyball action begins on Tuesday, 3 February, featuring six teams from five Arab nations: Sharjah Women’s Sports Club and Al Wasl Club (UAE), Al-Fatat Sports Club (Kuwait), Taldara Club (Syria), Al Shabiba Al Bouchrieh Club (Lebanon), and Akkad Ankawa Club (Iraq).

Matches will be hosted at Sharjah Women’s Sports Club (Al Qulayaa) and Al Riqa Children Center, with full operational readiness confirmed by the organisers.