Saudi Arabia was once known only for its oil economy, but today it is rapidly moving towards becoming a global sports hub. In recent years, the Kingdom launched the Vision 2030 initiative to diversify its economy, and the sports industry is a big part of it. From cricket to Formula 1, from WWE to football leagues, Saudi Arabia is hosting all kinds of sports events and developing world-class infrastructure. In this article, we will see how sports in Saudi Arabia are growing fast and becoming a global sports hub and making its place in the world of sports.
Saudi Vision 2030 and Development of Sports Industry
The main goal of Vision 2030 is to diversify the economy and promote tourism, entertainment, and sports. Investment in the sports industry is a crucial part of this vision. The Saudi Arabian government has invested billions of dollars to make the Kingdom a global sports destination. Led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudis have attracted multiple high-profile sports events that are grabbing the attention of sports fans from around the world.
Football: Saudi Arabia’s Biggest Investment
Saudi Arabia’s main focus is on football. Saudi football investments have become more aggressive since the Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired English Premier League club Newcastle United. The Kingdom has also taken major steps to take its domestic Saudi Pro League (SPL) to the global level.
- Cristiano Ronaldo joining Saudi Pro League – When Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr, the attention of the whole world turned to Saudi football.
- Top European Players joining Saudi Clubs – In the 2023-24 season, big players like Neymar, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kanté joined Saudi Pro League clubs.
- 2027 AFC Asian Cup Hosting – Saudi Arabia will host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, which is Asia’s most prestigious football tournament.
- 2034 FIFA World Cup Bid – Saudi Arabia has submitted an official bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which shows the Kingdom’s ambitions.
Formula 1 and Motorsports Boom
Saudi Arabia has also made a very aggressive entry into motorsports. In 2021, Jeddah hosted its first Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. This race is one of the fastest street circuits in the world and F1 fans gather here every year.
- Dakar Rally – Saudi Arabia has started hosting the Dakar Rally since 2020, which is considered to be the world’s toughest motorsport event.
- Extreme E and Formula E – To promote sustainability and EV racing, the Kingdom is also hosting Extreme E and Formula E events.
- Saudi Arabian Grand Prix – has become a permanent part of F1 racing and the track of this race is an example of a futuristic infrastructure.
Cricket’s New Destination
Saudi Arabia has traditionally not been a cricket-playing nation, but now investments in this sport are increasing. The Kingdom has started preparations to partner with ICC and launch its own T20 league.
- Collaboration with IL T20 and Other Leagues – Saudi is thinking of starting a new cricket league along with UAE and India.
- Stadium Development – New cricket stadiums are being developed in Riyadh and Jeddah.
- 2024 Cricket World Cup Hosting Aspirations – Saudi Arabia is also interested in hosting ICC events in the future.
Center for Boxing, MMA, and WWE
Saudi Arabia is now becoming a major center for combat sports as well. Heavyweight boxing fights and WWE’s premium live events are being hosted here.
- Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou – This mega boxing fight took place in Riyadh which is becoming popular worldwide.
- Anthony Joshua fights – Saudi Arabia is hosting big matches of heavyweight boxing.
- WWE’s Crown Jewel and Night of Champions – WWE’s premium events have now become a regular part of Saudi Arabia, in which big superstars perform.
- UFC and MMA Investments – Saudi Arabia is also attracting UFC and MMA promotions and is opening academies to train new MMA fighters.
Saudi Arabia’s Entry in Golf and Tennis
Saudi Arabia is now entering elite sports such as golf and tennis. LIV Golf, a Saudi-funded golf league, is attracting world-class golfers.
- LIV Golf – This is a controversial but powerful golf league that has become a competition for the PGA Tour.
- ATP and WTA Tournaments – Saudi Arabia is planning to host tennis tournaments in the future.
- Saudi International Golf Tournament – This event is helping to increase Saudi influence in the golf world.
Investment in Esports and Gaming
Saudi Arabia is aggressively investing in the esports and gaming industry along with traditional sports.
- Gamers8 Festival – This festival held every year in Riyadh is one of the top esports tournaments in the world.
- Savvy Games Group Investment – Saudi Arabia has invested billions in the esports and gaming industry and acquired multiple gaming companies.
- Esports World Cup 2024 – Saudi Arabia is hosting this big event to become the center of the esports industry.
Growth of Infrastructure and Sports Tourism
Saudi Arabia is developing world-class infrastructure to host sports events.
- Qiddiya City – This will be a futuristic city which will become a hub of entertainment and sports.
- Sports Complexes in NEOM – Multiple stadiums and sports complexes are being developed in NEOM.
- Tourism Growth – Due to sports events, the flow of international tourists is increasing in Saudi Arabia, which is boosting the economy.
Conclusion
Sports in Saudi Arabia are rapidly becoming a global leader in the industry. The Kingdom’s investments in football, motorsports, boxing, cricket, golf, Esports, and combat sports align perfectly with its Vision 2030 goals. With world-class infrastructure, top-level players, and premium sports events, Saudi Arabia is set to become an even bigger sports hub in the future. If you are a sports enthusiast, Saudi Arabia should be on your bucket list for the next few years! Stay updated with the latest in sports in Saudi Arabia and more by visiting Know Saudi, your source for insights, trends, and news from the Kingdom.
