The shift is reportedly due to the ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan.

Despite India holding the official hosting rights, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is likely to confirm the UAE as a neutral venue. The UAE has a strong history of hosting major cricket events—such as the 2021 T20 World Cup and earlier Asia Cups—offering top-tier infrastructure and a neutral setting acceptable to all teams.

The 2025 edition will follow the T20 format, acting as a crucial lead-up to the ICC T20 World Cup in 2026. The tournament will span two weeks and include 19 matches featuring eight teams.

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While the ACC has yet to make a formal announcement, indications strongly suggest the UAE will host the event. Although Sri Lanka was also in contention, the UAE’s neutrality and facilities have positioned it as the preferred choice. Officially, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will retain hosting rights, but the games are likely to be held in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Meanwhile, reports indicate a possible tri-nation T20I series featuring Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE could be staged in the Emirates ahead of the Asia Cup. Originally, Afghanistan was scheduled to tour Pakistan for a bilateral T20 series in August, but there are ongoing discussions to convert it into a triangular tournament by adding the UAE team.