Saudi Arabia will officially host the 2034 World Cup — the Kingdom's first. When was it confirmed, which cities and stadiums are planned, and what does it mean for Vision 2030?
Saudi Arabia will officially host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, after the FIFA Congress ratified its bid in December 2024 — the first World Cup in the Kingdom's history and the second in the Middle East after Qatar 2022.
How did Saudi Arabia secure the hosting?
The Kingdom bid in the cycle allocated to Asia and Oceania and was the sole candidate after potential rivals stepped aside, so the Congress confirmed the hosting by acclamation. The bid reflects Vision 2030's ambition to make the Kingdom a global sporting destination.
A 48-team edition
The 2034 World Cup will use the 48-team format adopted since 2026 — more than 100 matches across roughly a month, making it the biggest sporting event the Kingdom has ever staged.
Planned cities and stadiums
The bid includes venues in Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha and NEOM, spanning upgraded existing grounds (such as King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh and King Abdullah Sports City "Al-Jawharah" in Jeddah) and brand-new arenas led by the planned King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, set to be among the world's largest and the favourite for the opener and final.
What does it mean for Saudi football?
Hosting crowns a rapid rise: global stars joining the Saudi Pro League, hosting world Super Cups, the 2027 Asian Cup and Khaleeji 27, and modern stadium infrastructure. It also gives the Green Falcons the chance to play football's biggest event at home.
What isn't settled yet?
Final details such as the exact dates within 2034 (a winter tournament is expected for weather reasons, as in Qatar) and the final stadium list will be announced progressively by FIFA and the organizers. Follow every Saudi World Cup update first on Shahid Live.
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