A Confluence of Goals: The Economic Ripples of Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup

Saudi is hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and the news comes as no surprise – A Saudi World Cup is merely the pinnacle of a Saudi Vision 2030, a natural next chapter in Saudi’s milestones of growth and global integration. Fueled by determination and passion, characteristic of the country and its people, this milestone is expected to be Saudi’s grand canvas unfolding on a global stage. With anticipation brewing, this World Cup will be beyond awaited—it’s destined to be a spectacle, no doubt.

Saudi Arabia has a strong football heritage; the three-time AFC Asian Cup winner, is also home to one of the strongest leagues in Asia, the Saudi Pro League (SPL). Saudi’s Al Hilal is the most title-winning club in Asia, earning it the title of the “Asian Club of the Century’’.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) President, Yasser Al Misehal, perfectly expressed the Kingdom’s sentiment stating, “Hosting a World Cup in Saudi Arabia would mean everything to us. We are a football nation, and this is what dreams are made of for all the generations, young and old, boys and girls.’’

An Economic Cornerstone for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

The historical narrative of sporting mega-events as catalysts for social cohesion and nation-building is not new. The 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa is a testament to the power of sports in fostering unity and bolstering national pride – generating over $30.3 million in revenue, 70% more in comparison to the UK’s edition.