RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is preparing for a monumental milestone in its sporting history as it readies to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034, with an ambitious plan already underway. The Kingdom is set to welcome 48 teams from across the globe, blending its rich football heritage with a deep-seated passion for the sport.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the hosting rights for the FIFA World Cup 2034 have been awarded to Saudi Arabia, supported by the nation’s leadership and well-orchestrated development initiatives. These initiatives are designed to showcase Saudi Arabia’s extensive capabilities as it gears up for this historic event.
Central to these preparations are the stadiums, with plans for 11 new venues and the redevelopment of four existing ones across five key cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al-Khobar, Abha, and NEOM. These stadiums are strategically located and designed to meet both local and international standards, with sustainability as a core element.
Riyadh is set to feature eight stadiums, including the K
ing Salman International Stadium, which will have a seating capacity exceeding 92,000 and will host both the opening and final matches. The Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium in Qiddiya will offer a unique design with three-sided seating and colorful glass facades, set against the backdrop of the Tuwaiq cliff.
Other notable venues in Riyadh include the King Fahd Sports City Stadium, the historic Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium, and the new South Riyadh Stadium inspired by Salmani architecture. The ROSHN Stadium, King Saud University Stadium, and the New Murabba Stadium will also contribute to Riyadh’s lineup.
In Jeddah, the Jeddah Central Development Stadium is planned to reflect local heritage and Al-Balad district’s traditional architecture. The King Abdullah Economic City will feature a coastal stadium inspired by the Red Sea’s coral reefs, while the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, known as ‘The Shining Jewel,’ will accommodate over 58,000 spectators.
Al-Khobar will see the construction of
the Aramco Stadium, designed to mirror the sea’s whirlpools, while Abha’s King Khalid University Stadium is being expanded to host over 45,000 spectators. The NEOM Stadium will be a standout, located within “The Line” structure at an elevation of over 350 meters, powered by wind and solar energy.
The hosting plan extends to 10 cities, which will support the host cities and accommodate training camps for the teams. These cities, rich in tourist attractions, will offer teams and fans the opportunity to explore Saudi Arabia’s heritage and enjoy unique experiences. A total of 132 training venues across 15 cities will be available for the participating teams and their delegations.