A decade ahead of hosting football’s pinnacle event, the World Cup, Saudi Arabia is facing the monumental challenge of developing essential infrastructure, including stadiums, hotels, and transport networks. Awarded the hosting rights by FIFA last October as the sole bidder, the kingdom is embarking on an ambitious endeavor to transform its sports landscape while reshaping its global image and attracting foreign investment.
At the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s concerns is the creation of stadiums capable of accommodating the 48-team tournament. Presently, the country possesses only two suitable stadiums, necessitating the construction of an additional 14 all-seater venues with capacities exceeding 40,000 spectators each. Despite having a thriving football league, many of Saudi’s existing stadiums are outdated and ill-equipped for modern sporting events, presenting a significant logistical hurdle.
Undeterred by the magnitude of the task at hand, Saudi Arabia is determined to meet the challenge head-on. With the impending 2027 Asian Cup and the 2029 Asian Winter Games on the horizon, alongside plans to host the 2034 World Cup and the Asian Games, the kingdom is accelerating its efforts to bolster its sports infrastructure.
Key initiatives include the refurbishment of existing stadiums, such as the King Fahd International Stadium, and the construction of new state-of-the-art venues in strategic locations like Qiddiya and Dammam. To facilitate these developments, the Saudi sports ministry is preparing to issue tenders worth billions of riyals for stadium construction and expansion projects.
Beyond stadiums, Saudi Arabia recognizes the need for comprehensive improvements in accommodation and transportation infrastructure to ensure the success of the World Cup. The scorching temperatures during summer necessitate innovative solutions for cooling stadiums and safeguarding the well-being of players and spectators alike.
Moreover, the kingdom faces the challenge of cultivating a skilled workforce capable of managing the logistical demands of hosting a major international tournament. Efforts to upskill and train personnel across various roles, from event management to security, underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to delivering a world-class sporting spectacle.
While the road ahead is fraught with challenges, including addressing concerns over women’s rights and migrant labor, Saudi Arabia remains steadfast in its determination to showcase its capabilities on the global stage. With visionary leadership and substantial financial investments, the kingdom is poised to redefine its sporting landscape and leave a lasting legacy as a host of the 2034 World Cup.
