JEDDAH: Early strikes secured hosts Saudi Arabia the 27th Gulf Cup with a 2-0 win over the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, ending a 22-year wait to lift the trophy again.

Winger Hammam Al Hammami opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a deflected shot from the edge of the box, sparking celebrations at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.

Just two minutes later, Georgios Donis' side took a 2-0 lead when Feras Al Brikan struck from close range. They almost scored again when Saleh Abu Alshamat, who started alongside his brother Mohammed, hit the bar.

"We are very happy... there were many difficulties, but the players showed concentration and discipline and gave their maximum on the pitch," Donis told a press conference.