A Look at Saudi Sports Investment Leap Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2034 Hosting

Aligned with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is creating a dynamic environment for investors in the burgeoning sports sector. With the Kingdom set to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, its transformative sports investments are gaining significant global attention.

These initiatives under Vision 2030 aim to position the sports sector as a key economic pillar, diversify revenue streams, and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global standing in the sports arena. The sector has already catalyzed significant growth in GDP, increasing from SAR 2.4 billion to SAR 6.5 billion in just two years—a remarkable 170% surge. Similarly, revenues from non-governmental sports clubs surpassed SAR 2 billion during the same period.

Saudi football has emerged as a centerpiece of this investment boom, with the Roshn Saudi League (SPL) becoming the third most lucrative league globally in sponsorship revenues. Additionally, 17 investment firms have been established within the league’s clubs, and the SPL’s broadcast reach has expanded thirteenfold, growing from 10 countries in 2015 to 130 by 2023.

Saudi Arabia’s incentives for sports investors include financial facilities, infrastructure enhancements, and streamlined investment processes. The Kingdom also supports private sector growth, cultivates talent, and provides regulatory frameworks while promoting opportunities in e-sports and other emerging sports sectors.

Since 2016, Saudi Arabia has hosted over 100 international sporting events across more than 50 disciplines, supported by substantial infrastructure investments. These efforts present lucrative opportunities for tournament organization and sponsorship, attracting prestigious international competitions to the Kingdom.

Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia is embarking on an ambitious plan to develop world-class stadiums in five key cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al-Khobar, Abha, and NEOM. This initiative involves constructing 15 state-of-the-art stadiums, including 11 brand-new arenas, offering unparalleled prospects for investors.

To foster talent development, the Kingdom is investing in diverse sports academies, encouraging foreign clubs to establish their own academies in Saudi Arabia, and enhancing the capabilities of existing clubs to strengthen their sports education programs.

Committed to empowering investors in the sports sector, Saudi Arabia is providing comprehensive facilities and streamlining licensing procedures. Representatives from relevant government entities are available to assist investors in completing the necessary formalities. Additionally, a robust support framework guides investors through every phase of their journey, from inception to operational launch, across various quality-of-life sectors.