Saudi Arabia confirmed as 2034 FIFA World Cup host
Dubai Ruler calls it ‘a proud moment for Arabs’
Global football governing body has announced Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, marking a historic achievement for the Kingdom and the Arab world.
The decision was finalised during an extraordinary virtual FIFA Congress on Wednesday, cementing Saudi Arabia’s place in football history.
The 2034 tournament will feature 48 national teams, 104 matches, and will be held across five cities in Saudi Arabia, with 15 stadiums being planned or constructed for the event. This follows FIFA’s continued expansion of the tournament, a change first implemented during Qatar’s 2022 World Cup.
Major FIFA decision
Saudi Arabia’s bid for the 2034 World Cup was accepted unopposed after FIFA limited eligibility to Asia and Oceania, paving the way for the Kingdom’s historic win. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said, “The 2034 World Cup will unite the globe in an unforgettable way. Congratulations to Saudi Arabia for this remarkable achievement.”
Meanwhile, the 2030 World Cup will also be groundbreaking, spanning six nations across three continents. The opening matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will commemorate the tournament’s centenary before moving to Morocco, Spain, and Portugal.
Saudi Arabia’s vision
Hosting the World Cup underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports. This will be the second time a Middle Eastern nation hosts football’s premier tournament, following Qatar’s successful event in 2022.
Saudi Arabia plans to use 15 advanced stadiums and invest heavily in its infrastructure to deliver a world-class experience for fans and players alike. With FIFA’s decision, the region celebrates two back-to-back World Cups, further highlighting the Gulf’s prominence in international football.
Historic Arab pride
Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum celebrated the news, calling it a proud moment for the Arab world. In a tweet, Sheikh Mohammed wrote: “We congratulate my brother King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the brotherly Saudi people for this significant achievement. The Kingdom’s determination knows no bounds, and this is a proud moment for the entire Arab world, Gulf, and the broader Islamic community.”
Sheikh Mohammed added: “The World Cup will be in our region for two consecutive tournaments. This is a moment of joy for Arabs and a testament to our growing influence on the global stage. We look forward to witnessing two spectacular tournaments in 2030 and 2034, God willing.”
نبارك للمملكة العربية السعودية فوزها باستضافة كأس العالم 2034، ونهنئ الملك سلمان بن عبدالعزيز وولي عهده الأمير محمد بن سلمان والشعب السعودي على هذا الإنجاز التاريخي للسعودية، وكلّنا ثقة بقدرة المملكة على إبهار العالم في هذا الحدث العالمي.
— Maktoum Bin Mohammed (@MaktoumMohammed) December 11, 2024
كما نبارك للمملكة المغربية وللملك محمد…
He also extended congratulations to King Mohammed VI of Morocco, Spain, and Portugal for securing the 2030 World Cup bid, applauding their collective ambition and collaboration.
Global preparations
As the Kingdom prepares for its first-ever World Cup, efforts are already underway to ensure the event meets FIFA’s high standards. Saudi Arabia will not only invest in cutting-edge stadiums but will also showcase its rich culture and world-renowned hospitality.
This achievement is a testament to the Gulf’s growing presence on the global stage, with the Middle East now set to host consecutive World Cups, strengthening its football legacy.