Saudi Arabia Unveils Plans for 11 New Stadiums in 2034 World Cup Bid

Saudi Arabia is set to make a significant impact on the global sports stage with its bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The bid includes plans for 11 new stadiums, highlighting the country’s commitment to modernising its infrastructure and enhancing its international profile. The announcement, made in Paris, showcases the kingdom’s intent to build new stadiums across five key cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and Neom’s futuristic city, The Line.

A notable feature of the plan is the proposed stadium in The Line, a groundbreaking city designed to stretch 170 kilometers across the desert, with a stadium located 350 meters above ground level. While most of the stadiums are expected to be completed by 2032, four existing stadiums will undergo refurbishment, ensuring state-of-the-art facilities are available for the tournament.

Saudi Arabia’s bid document does not specify the costs involved, leaving room for speculation about the financial implications. However, the focus remains on creating an event that offers optimal conditions for teams and an unforgettable experience for fans. The country is considering hosting the tournament during the winter, similar to Qatar’s 2022 World Cup, to provide ideal playing conditions.

This bid is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 development program, which includes significant tourism and infrastructure projects. The kingdom is investing heavily in sports and entertainment, aiming to position itself as a leading destination for major international events.

Industry experts, such as Simon Chadwick, a sports professor at Skema Business School in France, suggest that Saudi Arabia is prepared to spare no expense in its pursuit of hosting the World Cup. The country aims to build infrastructure that not only supports the event but also projects an image of modernity and trustworthiness on the global stage.

Despite the ambitious nature of the bid, there are concerns about the feasibility of completing certain projects, such as The Line stadium, within the proposed timeline. James Dorsey, an author on Middle Eastern sports, notes that while building 11 stadiums in a decade is challenging, it is not unprecedented.

The omission of the Neom resort of Trojena from the bid document in favour of Abha raises questions about the final lineup of venues. However, Faisal Durrani of Knight Frank believes hosting the World Cup will significantly enhance Saudi Arabia’s international standing, showcasing the country’s advancements and ambitions.

With Saudi Arabia poised to host a ‘money’s no object’ tournament, the world will be watching closely as the kingdom embarks on this transformative journey in sports. As the sole bidder, Saudi Arabia is likely to receive formal FIFA approval later this year, marking a new chapter in the nation’s sporting history.