The competition was originally scheduled for Lahore in Pakistan. However, the AFC decided to look for another host because of security concerns in the South Asian country.

The Iran Football Federation subsequent applied to host the tournament and was successful in its bid.

The tournament is scheduled to take place from 8-16 December 2009 and features Uzbekistan, Iran, Lebanon, Turkmenistan and Pakistan.

The top two teams and best third-placed team from the West will join the 13 teams who have already qualified for next year’s finals.