- Decision: FIFA’s Extraordinary Congress confirmed Saudi Arabia as 2034 host in December 2024.
- Format: 48 teams in a single host country.
- Proposed host cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, NEOM, Abha, Al Khobar.
- Stadium plan: 15 venues proposed; final list to follow FIFA approvals.
- Flagship venue: King Salman International Stadium, Riyadh (planned ~92,000; opener and final targeted).
- Context: 2030 World Cup to be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with centenary matches in South America.
- Next steps: venue confirmations, match schedule, and fan operations timeline.
FIFA confirmed Saudi Arabia as host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup at an Extraordinary Congress in December 2024. Members approved the choice by acclamation. Only Saudi Arabia appeared on the ballot.
Tournament format and timing
FIFA plans a single-nation tournament with 48 teams. FIFA will set the final dates closer to the event after consulting partners.
Where matches are planned
The bid names five host cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, NEOM, Abha, and Al Khobar. The bid proposes 15 stadiums. FIFA will confirm the final list after technical checks and delivery timelines.
The headline venue
Organizers plan King Salman International Stadium in Riyadh as the centerpiece. The venue targets a capacity near 92,000. Organizers aim to stage the opening match and the final there, subject to confirmation.
Why this matters
The appointment fits national events planning and ongoing infrastructure work. The men’s World Cup returns to the Gulf after the 2022 edition in Qatar, now with a larger field and a single host.
Linked announcements
FIFA announced the 2030 World Cup plan at the same time. Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will co-host, with centenary fixtures in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.
Notes on debate
Rights groups and observers have raised concerns about labor and civil liberties. FIFA and organizers will face close review on standards, monitoring, and tournament legacy.
What to watch next
- Venue and training-site approvals
- Transport and accommodation plans for fans and teams
- Match schedule and kick-off windows
- Ticketing phases, hospitality details, and volunteer programs
Conclusion
FIFA has set Saudi Arabia as the 2034 host. Organizers will release the detailed plan—venues, schedule, and fan services—in stages as projects progress and FIFA confirms the final tournament map.
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Owais Qarni is a Co-Founder, Chief Editor, and Author of Saudi Scoop. He is passionate about tech, cars, and traveling. A Dreamer, Explorer & Optimist!
