RIYADH: Preparations are set to begin across Saudi Arabia to ensure a seamless World Cup in 2034 after the Kingdom was officially named host.
So, how will the World Cup, one of the world’s premier sporting events, change Saudi Arabia? As stated in the Kingdom’s bid, games will be played in 15 stadiums, with 11 yet to be built, spread across Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, Abha, and NEOM.
Luckily, the Kingdom has ample time to learn from previous World Cups, as well as the upcoming event: 2026 will be jointly hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, and 2030 jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
Saudi Arabia’s opening game and final will be held in the new 92,760-capacity King Salman International Stadium in Riyadh.
Existing stadiums, including “The Shining Jewel” in Jeddah, will undergo major refurbishment and expansion.
Each stadium must have a capacity of at least 40,000, with quarterfinal and semifinal venues able to accommodate 60,000 spectators. Stadiums for the opening match and the final must have a minimum capacity of 80,000.
As well as the stadiums, Saudi Arabia plans to construct around 230,000 hotel rooms across five host cities to accommodate visiting fans and dignitaries.
Looking at its eastern neighbor Qatar might give some indication of how the major infrastructure projects will leave their mark on Saudi Arabia.
While many of Qatar’s World Cup venues, including the iconic Lusail Stadium, are being used by the Qatar Stars League, others are being repurposed. These include the Al-Bayt Stadium, part of which will be converted into a hotel and shopping center.
Ebraheem Alghafees is one of many Saudis excited about the Kingdom hosting the World Cup.
Alghafees attended the 2022 tournament in Qatar, and said that it was nothing short of extraordinary.
“Attending the games was thrilling, and the electrifying atmosphere in the stadiums left an indelible impression on me.”
He told Arab News that Saudi Arabia can “draw several lessons” from previous World Cups.
“First, investing heavily in infrastructure and transportation is crucial for accommodating global audiences.
“Second, creating a cultural narrative that showcases Saudi heritage, while leveraging advanced technologies, can help deliver a memorable experience.
“Lastly, fostering a welcoming environment through hospitality initiatives will ensure that visitors leave with positive impressions of the Kingdom.”
Describing his excitement about Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 event, Alghafees said: “It represents a golden opportunity for the Kingdom to showcase its rapid transformation and global aspirations under Vision 2030.
“Hosting such an event will unite people worldwide and position Saudi Arabia as a hub for cultural exchange, innovation, and excellence. It is an honor to see the Kingdom rise to the occasion on such a grand scale.”
Saudi Arabia first held a FIFA event, the World Youth Championship, in 1989. In 1997, there was the Confederations Cup.
But during the past five to 10 years, the number of sporting events and tournaments — not just football — held in the Kingdom has skyrocketed, earning the country a solid reputation as a host.
