Saudi Arabia defeated hosts United Arab Emirates in the final match in Abu Dhabi.

As the runners-up, the United Arab Emirates represented the AFC in the 1997 FIFA Confederations Cup as the winners Saudi Arabia had qualified automatically as host.

The qualifying teams were: Notes: The tournament began with host United Arab Emirates against South Korea in group A, where the Emiratis played in a 1–1 draw.

Defending champions Japan however emerged as the only team to collect all three victories, while China recovered following the defeat to beat Syria.

The semi-finals became a West Asian affair and rematches of group A and B: Saudi Arabia took a successful revenge on Iran following the group stage, beating the Iranians on penalty, while the UAE killed Kuwaiti dream for the second time with another 1–0 win to set up final with Saudi Arabia.

[1] Thanked for the win, Saudi Arabia gained automatic berth to qualify for the 2000 AFC Asian Cup held in Lebanon.