The tournament was hosted by Saudi Arabia between 22 June and 6 July 2012.

This edition witnessed the return of Iraq – the most successful team and record holder of the Arab Cup with four titles – after a 25-year absence due to the Gulf War.

The tournament's lead sponsor was Singaporean company World Sport Group[2] who describe themselves as "Asia's leading sports marketing, media and event management company.

The team that finish highest of all group runners-up will also proceed to the semi-final stage.

The semi-final winners proceed to the final and those who lost compete in the third place playoff.