Saudi Arabia, through its bid to host the 2034 World Cup, has stated its commitment to welcoming all visitors, including LGBTQ people. The bid unit head, Hammad Albalawi, assured that visitors will be respected and welcomed in the country. With Fifa limiting the 2034 contest to bidders from the Asian and Oceania confederations, Saudi Arabia’s bid is likely to succeed as there have been no other expressions of interest.
The official appointment of the hosts will take place at the Fifa Congress in December, and the bid is almost certain to be awarded to Saudi Arabia. Albalawi emphasized that the country has hosted millions of guests over the years, including over a hundred sporting events with more than three million fans. He invited people to educate themselves about the Kingdom by visiting and experiencing the hospitality of Saudis.
Saudi Arabia’s government-run tourism website issued a statement for LGBT visitors, asking them to respect the country’s culture and traditions while reassuring them of their privacy rights. The Kingdom has heavily invested in sports like soccer, Formula One, boxing, and golf, leading to accusations of “sportswashing” by critics. Albalawi denied these accusations and reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030.
Vision 2030, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s oil-reliant economy through tourism, cultural events, and sports. Albalawi emphasized that the investments made are to ensure the longevity and happiness of the Saudi people. The bid for the 2034 World Cup is seen as a way to further boost tourism and enhance urban life in the country, in line with the goals of Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia is determined to showcase its culture and hospitality to the world through sports events like the World Cup.
