The 16 teams, divided into four groups, will not only be bidding for the coveted trophy but also for the eight spots at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 – the first edition of the newly expanded 48-team strong annual tournament.
Host Saudi Arabia, seeking a third title, will face Uzbekistan, Thailand and China in Group A with the top two sides to advancing to the quarter-finals.
Group B will see defending champion Japan being challenged by Australia, Vietnam and United Arab Emirates while Korea Republic will square off against Yemen, Afghanistan and Indonesia in Group C.
Top seeds Iran can expect stiff resistance from Tajikistan, Oman and DPR Korea in Group D.
The AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2025 will be held on April 3-20.