RIYADH: Strategic investment is fueling a world-class sports ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, as highlighted this week at the Sports Investment Forum in Riyadh.

Held under the joint patronage of the Ministry of Sport and the Ministry of Investment, the event has drawn together more than 3,000 media professionals, 140 speakers and representatives from more than 100 sports agencies and channels from 60 countries.

Key themes on the first day included innovation and technology in sports, sustainable sports development, empowering women in sports, global partnerships and economic growth, and sports for health and social impact.

A highlight was a ministerial panel discussion, “From Vision to Execution — Government Integration to Achieve Sports Investment Growth Goals.” Taking part were Deputy Sports Minister Badr Al-Qadi, Deputy Tourism Minister Princess Haifa Mohammed Al-Saud, and Ibrahim Al-Mubarak, assistant investment minister. The session emphasized the importance of cross-governmental collaboration in driving sector growth and attracting private investment.

“There is no doubt that sports and investment are two sides of the same coin,” said Al-Qadi during the opening ceremony.

“Sports have now become a leading industry globally, playing a crucial role in achieving investment and strategic goals, enhancing economic growth and creating opportunities within an attractive environment. We anticipate further significant announcements and partnerships to emerge from the Sports Investment Forum in the coming days.”

Al-Qadi also highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to increasing private sector participation in sports, stating an ambition to increase the current level of 15 percent to 25 percent.

This goal is being supported by a range of initiatives, including streamlined licensing processes — something which has already led to a boost in new sports facilities. As of 2024, the Kingdom is home to 2,423 licensed gyms and sports centers, 737 academies and 285 private clubs, underlining the growing accessibility and appeal of sports across the country.

To support this growth, world-class sports infrastructure is being actively developed across the Kingdom, with projects underway in key cities with passionate sports communities.

A proposed sports complex in Taif will encompass 34,650 sq. meters with 23 indoor and outdoor courts, while a complex Makkah’s King Abdulaziz Sport City features 14 indoor and outdoor courts.