Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 men’s FIFA World Cup. The Gulf Nation was awarded the right to welcome the football world by acclamation at the Extraordinary FIFA Congress on Wednesday (11 December) in Zurich, Switzerland.

Saudi Arabia was awarded the World Cup for the first time in its history, marking the second occasion the top men’s football tournament will be played in the Middle East.

The Kingdom’s successful bid proposed matches across 15 stadiums in five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and Neom.

Riyadh

King Salman Stadium The centrepiece of Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup bid, King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, will boast a seating capacity of 92,000. Designed to host the opening match and final, this state-of-the-art venue draws inspiration from the Saudi landscape, symbolising a seed breaking through the earth. The stadium will be part of a larger sports complex with an Olympic-sized pool and an indoor sports hall, setting a new benchmark for global sporting venues.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Tuwaiq Mountains, this futuristic venue in Riyadh will feature a fully retractable roof and an open side overlooking cliffs. With construction slated for 2026 and completion expected by 2029, it will host various tournament stages and become the home of Pro League clubs Al Hilal and Al Nassr.

King Fahd Sports City Stadium This iconic venue is undergoing extensive renovations to expand its seating capacity to approximately 70,200. Known for its tent-like roof inspired by Bedouin tents, the upgraded stadium will cater to World Cup matches and provide optimal comfort for fans.

South Riyadh Stadium Blending modern Salmani architecture with historical influences, this new venue will accommodate 47,060 spectators. Post-tournament, it will become the home of a Saudi Pro League team.

Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium Originally built in 1971, this stadium is undergoing a significant revamp to meet FIFA standards, increasing its capacity to 46,865. Renovation plans include removing the athletic track to enhance the football experience.

King Saud University Stadium Known as Al Awwal Park and currently home to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr, this stadium is set for capacity upgrades from 25,000 to 46,319 by 2034, ensuring it remains a top-tier venue.

New Murabba Stadium Inspired by the native Acacia tree, this venue will feature a ridged roof design and host group and round-of-32 matches. Located in downtown Riyadh, it is set for completion in 2032.

Roshn Stadium With a crystalline design perfect for social media enthusiasts, this unique venue will seat 46,000 spectators. Construction begins in 2028, with completion anticipated by 2032.

Jeddah

King Abdullah Sports City Stadium Popularly known as “The Jewel,” this established venue has hosted major events like the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup. Its capacity and facilities make it a cornerstone of Jeddah’s World Cup hosting.

Jeddah Central Development Stadium Inspired by the Al Balad heritage site, this cultural masterpiece will seat 45,794 and be part of a larger development featuring an opera house and oceanarium. Completion is expected by 2030.

Qiddiya Coast Stadium With a wave-inspired design, this stadium along the Red Sea will seat 46,096. Post-tournament, it will transform into an entertainment complex.

King Abdullah Economic City Stadium With a coral reef-styled exterior, this new stadium will seat 45,700 and be handed over to a Pro League team after the tournament. Completion is planned for 2032.

Al Khobar

Aramco Stadium Designed with a wave-like roof to reflect its location by the Arabian Gulf, Aramco Stadium will seat 47,000, with the capacity to expand to 55,000 for concerts. It will become home to Al Qadsiah Pro League team post-tournament.

Abha

King Khalid University Stadium Undergoing a rebuild to increase its capacity from 12,000 to 45,428, this venue will be the sole stadium in Abha, ready to host group-stage matches.

Neom

Neom Stadium Situated atop “The Line” project, this innovative stadium will offer high-speed lifts and driverless vehicle access. With a capacity of 46,010, it embodies Neom’s futuristic vision and sustainability goals.

To ensure a seamless World Cup experience, Saudi Arabia has pledged extensive infrastructure improvements. These include high-speed rail links, enhanced public transport, and expanded airport facilities. Riyadh’s new metro system and Jeddah’s high-speed rail project are examples of efforts to enhance connectivity and convenience for fans.

The Saudi bid emphasises sustainability, with plans for eco-friendly stadiums and long-term usability. For instance, Aramco Stadium in Al Khobar features a wave-inspired roof and flexible capacity for future events. Commitments to legacy projects aim to ensure that these state-of-the-art venues continue to benefit local communities and sports organisations.

Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup bid represents a transformative vision for the future of football, blending innovation, cultural heritage, and sustainability. With its impressive array of stadiums and infrastructure projects, the country is poised to deliver an unforgettable tournament that sets new standards for the beautiful game.