Impressions of the Saudi FIFA World Cup 2034 Bid Centre

On 31 July 2024 FIFA Published the bid book submitted by Saudi Arabian Football Federation for the 2034 edition of the FIFA World Cup. I’ve seen many such bids across the international sports space – but this one is impressive:

• 5 Host Cities and 15 Stadiums (4 refurbs, 3 under construction and 8 planned) for matches
• 15 cities hosting 60 venue-specific training sites and another 72 team base camp training sites, plus another 2 referee base camp training sites
• Multimodal transport options across all five host cities including all by air, and road, most by rail and some by water
• Commitments to grow 10 billion trees, protection of 30% of terrestrial and marine areas by 2030 and a waste diversion target of 90% by 2040

Most importantly, in contrast with the Qatar bid, Saudi Arabia is offering to host the FIFA World Cup at any time of the year that FIFA chooses. This is principally thanks to the drier heat in the summers and further advancements in cooling technologies. It’s an important aspect for FIFA as the flexibility will greatly simplify negotiations on the dreaded FIFA International Match Calendar.

The Saudi FIFA World Cup 2034 Bid Centre:

Well, it just so happens that, on the margins of my visit to the Esports World Cup in Riyadh last week, I was invited by the Ministry of Sport for a visit of the 2034 FIFA World Cup Bid Centre. You heard me right! Saudi Arabia has built a physical representation of their bid book – and it’s extremely impressive.

The Bid Centre is located in a fairly nondescript temporary structure but once you enter you're treated to something truly unique. Spanning an area perhaps larger than a football field, the Bid Centre comprises reception facilities and a large showcase area divided into several sections. Our tour started with a history of football in Saudi Arabia and then explored the 2034 bid in detail.

Before I dive into some of my impressions, photos and takeaways, I want to thank the Bid Team colleagues from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation for the time they spent with me – the presentation was fantastic, and I appreciated your time and effort.

FWC History and Bid Support:

The first section of the Bid Centre documents the history of Saudi Arabia at the FIFA World Cup – all 6 appearances, from the USA in 1994 through France (1998), South Korea and Japan (2002), Germany (2006), Russia (2018) and Qatar (2022). Information is also provided on the call to action from Saudi Arabia’s leadership, as well as the linkages to Vision 2030 (which I wrote a bit about earlier).

We were then introduced to the tournament layout and the 5 proposed host cities and why these make sense. The Bid Centre also includes statistics on national support for hosting the tournament. Some very interesting stats:

• A public survey indicated that 93% of respondents think Saudi Arabia would be a suitable host for the FIFA World Cup.
• 92% believe that hosting would have a positive impact on the country.
• 89% of people support the bid, with 79% expressing strong support.

The Operational Aspects:

A lot of work has gone into ensuring that all logistical aspects detailed in the bid requirements are met and exceeded. A whole section of the Bid Centre focuses on matters relating to transport options (including planned infrastructure upgrades and projects), detailed accommodation needs, training sites, healthcare, environmental aspects, and human rights commitments. This section was impressive, providing large interactive displays which allow users to plot and deep dive into the key plans, KPIs and statistics. I provide some KPIs and stats below.

Transport Infrastructure

The transport strategy for the World Cup includes a multi-modal network to ensure efficient movement:

• Air Travel: By 2034, Saudi Arabia will have 16 international airports connecting over 250 destinations. Major upgrades at airports like King Salman International Airport will increase capacity to handle up to 100 million passengers annually by 2030. Currently, more than 3,300 flights operate weekly between host cities, with an average flight time of under two hours. A great article from Business Reporter outlines the broader air travel piece in more detail.
• Rail and Public Transport: The 5,150 km rail network, including high-speed lines, facilitates quick travel between major cities. Riyadh’s metro network, spanning 176 km with six lines, can transport up to 50,000 passengers per hour and will expand by 2034. Jeddah also offers extensive bus services and rail connections.
• Sustainable Transport: The plan emphasizes the use of electric vehicles and sustainable transport solutions, including bike and e-scooter rentals, to minimize environmental impact and manage traffic efficiently.

The details were presented via an interactive display map that I was able to examine. It included information on all existing and planned transport links. It was an interesting interactive element that the photo below does not do justice.

Accommodation

The Saudi Arabian bid ensures an extensive range of accommodation options to meet the needs of all visitors, from teams and officials to international fans. Across all host cities, there are plans for:

• Hotel Capacity: Over 150,000 hotel rooms are available across the five host cities, ranging from budget options to luxury accommodations, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all guests.
• Occupancy Rates and Projections: Current occupancy rates average 70% annually, with plans to expand capacity by 30% by 2030 to accommodate the expected influx of visitors.
• Proximity to Venues: 80% of the accommodations are within a 30-minute drive of stadiums and training facilities, providing convenient access for teams, officials, and fans.
• Diversity of Options: Accommodation includes over 50 five-star hotels, 200 four-star hotels, and numerous budget options and serviced apartments, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.
• New Developments: As part of the bid, Saudi Arabia plans to build an additional 50 hotels, adding over 20,000 rooms by 2034, enhancing the country’s hospitality infrastructure. A great read from Hotelier covers this and more plans in detail.

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

Host cities have a robust healthcare network, equipped with modern hospitals and medical centre's capable of handling large crowds. Specialized sports medicine and emergency services will be available to support players, officials, and fans.

• Hospital Network: There are over 200 hospitals across the five host cities, with more than 50,000 hospital beds available. This network includes 40 specialized hospitals equipped with advanced facilities for critical care and emergency response.
• Proximity to Stadiums: All stadiums are within a 15-minute drive of at least one major hospital, ensuring quick access to medical care during the tournament.
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS): More than 1,000 ambulances will be on standby across host cities, with dedicated medical teams at each venue to provide immediate assistance. Response times are projected to be under 10 minutes, aligning with international standards.
• Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation: The bid includes 20 specialized sports medicine centres and 15 new sports rehabilitation facilities, specifically designed to cater to the needs of athletes and officials. These centres will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology for injury prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Security and Safety

Saudi Arabia’s experience with large international events underpins its comprehensive security plan, which includes collaboration with local and international agencies, surveillance systems, and strict access controls to ensure a secure environment for all attendees.

Sustainability and Human Rights Commitments

Aligned with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has set ambitious sustainability and Human Rights goals for the FIFA World Cup 2034 Bid programme. These include:

• Tree Planting and Reforestation: The bid includes a commitment to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 74 million hectares of degraded land over the next few decades, enhancing biodiversity and reducing carbon footprint.
• Protected Areas: By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to protect 30% of its terrestrial and marine environments, aligning with global conservation goals and preserving natural habitats.
• Waste Management: The Kingdom plans to achieve a 90% waste diversion rate from landfills by 2040 through extensive recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy programs. This initiative includes deploying over 2,000 waste management units across the host cities during the tournament.
• Renewable Energy: All stadiums and key facilities will be powered by renewable energy sources, with a target of reducing carbon emissions by 50% during the event compared to a conventional setup.
• Workers’ Rights: The bid outlines strict adherence to international labor standards, including the protection of workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions for all 50,000 workers involved in World Cup projects.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Saudi Arabia is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, with initiatives aimed at increasing participation of women and minorities in all aspects of the tournament, including a target of 30% female workforce representation.
• Accessibility: All venues and facilities will be fully accessible, designed to accommodate persons with disabilities. This includes 100% of stadiums equipped with accessible seating, signage, and services to ensure an inclusive experience for all fans.
• Community Engagement: Over 500 community programs are planned to promote football at the grassroots level, enhance cultural exchange, and foster a spirit of global unity. These initiatives aim to engage over 1 million local residents and international visitors in social and cultural activities.

The Host Cities

The Bid Centre's remaining sections are dedicated to each of the five host cities, showcasing detailed models of the existing, under-construction, and planned stadiums. Each section also highlights specific aspects for each city, including transportation networks, accommodation plans, local attractions, and the unique features of the Fan Festival zones (FIFA requires at least two Fan Festival zones per host city). Fan Festival zones will be designed to enhance the fan experience with live entertainment, cultural exhibitions, and public viewing areas.

Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a dynamic and rapidly growing metropolis, making it a prime host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The city boasts a mix of modern infrastructure and rich cultural heritage, reflected in its blend of contemporary skyscrapers and historical landmarks.

• Stadiums: Riyadh will host matches at 8 venues, including the newly planned King Salman International Stadium, which will have a capacity of over 92,000 seats and host the opening and final matches. Existing stadiums, such as King Fahad Sports City Stadium and King Saud University Stadium, are undergoing significant refurbishments to meet FIFA standards.
• Fan Festival Zones: Riyadh will feature two main Fan Festival zones located at King Salman Park and the Qiddya Large Festival Grounds. King Salman Park will be the largest urban park in the world, spanning 16 square kilometers and featuring various recreational facilities, while the Qiddya Large Festival Grounds will be a unique outdoor venue beneath the cliffs of Qiddya that combines entertainment, culture, and hospitality.
• Transportation and Accommodation: The city’s extensive public transport system, including a state-of-the-art metro network and expanded road infrastructure, ensures efficient mobility for fans and teams. Riyadh offers over 50,000 hotel rooms ranging from budget to luxury, with several new hotels planned in the coming years to accommodate the influx of visitors.
• Local Attractions: Visitors can explore Riyadh’s historical sites, such as the Diriyah UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy modern attractions like the Kingdom Centre and Al Faisaliah Tower, providing a diverse range of activities for tourists. I would be remiss if I didn't mention Boulevard City (which hosted the Esports World Cup) and Boulevard World.

Jeddah

Jeddah, located on the Red Sea coast, is known as the gateway to Mecca and a major cultural and commercial hub. The city is famous for its historic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and stunning coastline, making it an attractive destination for World Cup fans.

• Stadiums: Jeddah will host matches at 4 venues including the existing King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, which is being upgraded to enhance the spectator experience, and the under-construction Jeddah Central Development Stadium, designed to be a modern, multi-purpose venue with a focus on sustainability.
• Fan Festival Zones: The Fan Festival zones in Jeddah will be set up at Jeddah Waterfront and Khuzam Park. The Jeddah Waterfront offers a scenic seaside location with a variety of entertainment options, while Khuzam Park will be transformed into a lively space with cultural performances and public screenings.
• Transportation and Accommodation: Jeddah’s transport infrastructure includes a well-developed bus network and the Haramain High-Speed Rail, which connects the city to other major urban centres. The city has over 30,000 hotel rooms, with plans to increase capacity by 25% by 2034.
• Local Attractions: Fans can enjoy Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional architecture, as well as modern attractions like the Jeddah Corniche and the Red Sea Mall. Water sports and coastal activities also offer unique experiences for visitors.

Al Khobar

Al Khobar, part of the larger Dammam metropolitan area in the Eastern Province, is a modern city known for its beautiful coastline along the Arabian Gulf, vibrant cultural scene, and economic significance due to its proximity to Saudi Aramco.

• Stadiums: Al Khobar will feature matches at the under-construction Aramco Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility designed to host international sporting events with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.
• Fan Festival Zones: The Fan Festival zones in Al Khobar will be located at King Fahad Park and King Abdullah Park. King Fahad Park, which is close to the stadium, will feature lagoons and vast areas of green space. King Abdullah Park, located on the seafront and next to Dammam Heritage Village, will offer unique hospitality and entertainment areas with a view of Al Marjan Island.
• Transportation and Accommodation: The city’s transport network includes extensive road connections and a new light rail system under development to enhance local mobility. Al Khobar offers over 20,000 hotel rooms, with significant investment in new luxury hotels and resorts to cater to World Cup visitors.
• Local Attractions: Visitors can explore the Ithra Museum, a cultural landmark offering exhibitions and performances, or enjoy leisure activities at the Corniche and Murjan Island. Al Khobar also features various recreational parks and waterfront developments that provide a scenic backdrop for fans. I was particularly intrigued by “The Rig”, an offshore entertainment and tourism project designed to resemble an offshore oil platform and part of the Vision 2030 agenda. It will be an absolute must see attraction in Al Khobar when completed.

Abha

Abha, the capital of the Aseer region in southwestern Saudi Arabia, is a unique host city due to its high elevation and cooler climate. Known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Abha offers a distinct experience for World Cup visitors.

• Stadiums: Matches in Abha will be held at the King Khalid University Stadium, which will undergo upgrades to enhance its facilities and spectator experience.
• Fan Festival Zones: Abha’s Fan Festival zones will be located at Al Bihar Square and Al Dhabab Park. The former, located in Abha city centre, is a culturally and historically rich location with a modern and spacious layout. The latter, a little further south, is a popular public garden with scenic views looking towards the mountains in Aseer, and a scenic setting for public screenings and cultural events.
• Transportation and Accommodation: Abha’s transport infrastructure is focused on road networks and a planned cable car system to connect key areas. The city offers over 10,000 hotel rooms, with ongoing projects to expand accommodation options, including eco-friendly resorts.
• Local Attractions: Fans can enjoy the natural beauty of Aseer National Park, explore the historic Rijal Alma'a village, and experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of the Aseer region. The city’s cooler climate provides a refreshing contrast to other host cities.

NEOM

NEOM, a futuristic mega-city being developed in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia, represents a bold vision for the future of urban living. NEOM is designed to be a hub of innovation, sustainability, and luxury, making it a standout host city for the World Cup. The plan for 2034 includes a proposal for a 2.3 km segment of THE LINE – a linear city within NEOM, to be finished. That’s nearly 230 Million cubic meters of volume.

• Stadiums: NEOM will feature the cutting-edge NEOM Stadium, set to be one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the world, with a focus on digital innovation and sustainability. The stadium will be built as a volume inside THE LINE, meaning that it will be invisible from the outside. The model we saw was, in fact, a section of THE LINE cut in half to show its location. Absolutely intriguing and like something out of Star Wars!
• Fan Festival Zones: NEOM’s Fan Festival zones will be located at THE LINE. THE LINE will provide a unique venue for public events and entertainment. The first will be located in the Marina Steps centre which will offer spectacular outdoor views. The second will be at the Marina, an oceanside harbor entrance with waterfront access.
• Transportation and Accommodation: NEOM’s transport system will include electric vehicles, high-speed rail, and autonomous shuttles, all powered by renewable energy. The city will offer over 15,000 hotel rooms, ranging from high-tech luxury accommodations to eco-friendly lodges.
• Local Attractions: Visitors can explore NEOM’s diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains and pristine coastlines. Attractions include the Trojena ski resort, set amidst mountains, and the Sharma Beach, known for its clear waters and coral reefs, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and futuristic cityscapes.

Summing it up:

I have prepared, evaluated and seen numerous major event bids. They are always impressive. They serve to engage the imagination and illustrate what is possible. However, this experience was unique.

• First, the presentation was as impressive as it was exhaustive. Every bit of the FIFA requirements has been addressed in detail and responded to with creativity and ambition.
• Second, the unique presentation – which brought dry statistics to life – made the experience engaging. My guide brought the story to a human level, which made me connect with the project and understand Saudi Arabia’s motivations and dreams.
• Third, it was evident that the care that went into preparing the Bid Centre is meant to communicate the effort and focus which Saudi Arabia intends to bring to the FWC 2034 preparation process.

The commitment to deliver, and an ability to establish a convincing support narrative, form the crux of the dilemma surrounding Major Event bids.

Anyone can prepare an inspirational presentation that impresses a bid evaluation committee. However, very few can bring that vision to reality once they take on the project. In building the Bid Centre, Saudi Arabia has demonstrated (in a unique way) that it has the vision, focus, and resources to deliver on these ambitious plans. Moreover, by establishing a clear link with its Vision 2030 programme and the National Sports Strategy, it is able to clearly and compellingly communicate its reason to bid.

This makes for a winning combination, and one which I expect won’t be matched for years to come.