RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has unveiled a major initiative to open up key sports venues to private sector investment, signaling a significant step forward in the Kingdom’s efforts to transform the industry.
Announced by the Ministry of Sport, the Sports Facilities Investment Project offers private investors access to three of the nation’s premier sports complexes: King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City in Jeddah, and King Abdulaziz Sports City in Makkah.
Under the initiative, a range of five-year renewable contracts will be made available, the Saudi Press Agency reported. These include naming rights, leasing arrangements for non-match day use, and contracts to manage, operate, and maintain the venues.
The move supports Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s national strategy to diversify its economy and position the country as a global destination for sports, tourism, and entertainment.
With the 2034 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the government is stepping up efforts to attract private capital into its burgeoning sports sector.
According to SPA, the initiative is part of “modern operational models that aim to raise facility efficiency, improve service quality, broaden commercial opportunities, and enhance the fan experience.”
Saudi Arabia’s sports industry is currently valued at $8 billion and is projected to grow to $22.4 billion by 2030, fueled by investments in sports clubs, academies, facilities, and equipment.
The government has already identified 20 high-priority investment opportunities within the sector, with a combined potential value of up to $20 billion.
Hosting the 2034 World Cup is expected to further accelerate this growth, with forecasts indicating over 10 million international visitors, 1.5 million new jobs, and an economic boost of $9 billion to $14 billion to the national GDP. The tournament will be staged across 15 stadiums in cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, Abha, and the futuristic city of NEOM.
Interested investors are encouraged to submit proposals via the government’s “Furas” investment portal during the designated application period.
Officials described the project as a strategic gateway into one of the Kingdom’s most dynamic and fast-growing industries.
