Having announced its intention to bid for the 2034 FIFA World CupTM, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced its intention to host the event.
In addition to drawing inspiration from Saudi Arabia's ongoing social and economic transformation and football's deep-rooted passion, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's bid for 2034 intends to deliver a world-class tournament.
The country's bid for the 2023 FIFA Club World CupTM and the 2027 AFC Asian Cup is supported by its experience hosting world-class football events.
Saudi Arabia's intention to bid for the 2034 FIFA World CupTM is an indication of the country's progress in all sectors, according to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Having a rich cultural heritage, a strong economy, and an ambitious population has quickly made the Kingdom a leading hub for hosting major events.
Sport has a unique ability to unite different cultures and contribute to the country's economic growth and quality of life under Vision 2030. It is expected that Saudi Arabia will provide a world-class event that will bring joy to fans around the world.
Saudi Arabia hosts over 50 international events a year and has hosted football, motorsports, tennis, equestrian, esports, golf, and equestrian events for players of both genders.
Six times since 1994, Saudi Arabia has qualified for the iconic tournament, most recently in 2022 when the Green Falcons defeated eventual champions Argentina.
As Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Arabian Olympic and Paralympic Committee, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal said: "A FIFA World Cup in 2034 would help us achieve our goal of becoming a world leader in sport and would mark a significant turning point for our country. We believe hosting a FIFA World Cup is a natural next step in our football journey as an emerging and welcoming home for all sports."
Deputy President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), Yasser Al Misehal, said: "We believe that Saudi Arabia is ready to host the 2018 FIFA World CupTM. The love of the game and the desire to see it flourish throughout the world are at the heart of our bid. Our country wants to share its football culture with the world.
As we make our bid for this iconic tournament, we are embracing Saudi Arabia's enthusiasm for innovation and growth. It is our goal to host an event that inspires future generations, celebrates the game and captivates players and fans. The Kingdom's leadership has committed to drive the country forward and open up new opportunities in order to be in a position to bid to host a FIFA World CupTM, Al Misehal said.
From 2026 onwards, the FIFA World CupTM will have 48 teams, which will put tournament logistics at the forefront for players, officials, and fans. Matches will be played in Saudi Arabia, which will streamline travel, optimize match scheduling, and provide unique fan experiences across host cities and venues.
Over 70% of Saudi Arabia's population is under 35 years old, and the Saudi Pro League (SPL) is one of Asia's strongest leagues. Over 45 countries are represented in the league, which welcomes and engages fans from around the world.
SAFF's commitment to investing and growing the game at every level across the men's and women's game is highlighted by recent notable achievements, including winning the AFC Asian Cup for men's U-23s, raising investment by 160% in youth football, opening 18 youth regional training centers, increasing registration from 750 in 2018 to over 5,500 today, and experiencing an increase in registered male and female players since 2021 of 56% and 86% respectively.
In the women's game, Saudi Arabia has a similar ambition to grow the game and create new opportunities across the ecosystem. In its first week, SAFF welcomed more than 48,000 girls into its school girls league, which has hosted two professional women's leagues featuring 38 clubs. Moreover, the number of female coaches has increased by 800% in just two years.