His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, congratulated the people and leadership of Egypt on the national team's historic qualification for the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, describing the achievement as a source of joy for the entire Arab world.

In a message shared on his official account, the Ruler of Dubai wrote: "Heartiest congratulations to the Egyptian people and their leadership on the national team's qualification for the top 16 of the World Cup... Today, Arab joy is Egyptian." He also praised the outstanding performance and high spirits demonstrated by the Egyptian players during the tournament.

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The message was released hours after Egypt’s dramatic victory over Australia on Friday, July 3, at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Following a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time, Egypt triumphed 4-2 in a penalty shootout. Emam Ashour gave Egypt the lead with a header in the 13th minute, but an own goal by defender Mohamed Hany in the 55th minute leveled the score, sending the match into extra time and eventually penalties. During the shootout, Mohamed Salah calmly converted his spot-kick as the Egyptians scored all four attempts, while Australia’s Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington failed to find the net.

This marks Egypt’s first-ever victory in the knockout stages of the World Cup. The "Pharaohs," who progressed from the group stage undefeated following draws against Belgium and Iran and a 3-1 win over New Zealand, now await the winner of the Argentina versus Cape Verde match to determine their opponent in the Round of 16.

The Ruler of Dubai’s congratulatory message to Egypt comes days after he extended similar wishes to the King, people, and national team of Morocco for reaching the same stage, stating, "Our joy today is Moroccan." This reflects the UAE’s perspective of viewing the success of Arab teams at the 2026 World Cup as a collective achievement for the entire region.