From stadiums to
sand dunes:

Inside Saudi’s evolution into a sporting paradise

Saudi is making waves as a premier destination for hosting major sporting events. Now, travelers from around the world are turning to the country for their own adventures.

A window to
the world

When Saudi was announced as the host of the FIFA Club World Cup in 2023, HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal was clear in the Kingdom’s commitment to sport.

"Many fans will have recently witnessed our ability as a nation to compete at the highest possible level on the pitch,” he said. “Now we have the chance to prove we are also world-class hosts off it.”

Saudi's ascent as a premier sporting destination is no accident. The nation has made significant strides in securing hosting rights for high-profile events that command global attention. Since introducing e-visas for tourists ahead of Formula E in 2018, the Kingdom hosted over 80 international sports events, drawing 2.6 million attendees in just five years.

Jeddah

King Abdullah International Stadium in Jeddah

Investing in various homegrown events to compete on the world stage, Saudi hosts the Riyadh Season Cup – which this year featured a showdown between international soccer stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo – as well as the F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Dakar Rally, Formula E and Longines Global Champions. All are recurring events in Saudi’s sports calendar.

Looking ahead, there is a showdown between boxing heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and former UFC champion Francis Ngannou (October 28) as part of Riyadh Season 2023. Jeddah, meanwhile, will be serving up the Next Gen ATP Finals (November 28 – December 2), America’s Cup regatta (November 30 – December 3), as well as hosting this year’s FIFA Club World Cup (December 12-22).

But as well as solidifying its position on the global stage, Saudi’s sporting renaissance is signaling a broader transformation in the country, one which is opening the door to travelers from around the world seeking unique sport and leisure experiences.

Edge of the World, Riyadh

Saudi’s
adventurous
spirit

Saudi has embarked on an ambitious plan to turbocharge development of state-of-the-art sports and leisure infrastructure across the Kingdom. And these world-class stadiums, athletic facilities, and training centers are in turn creating a more diverse array of activities for residents and tourists.

Improved access is transforming previously remote areas into playgrounds for those seeking once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Whether it’s hiking up the Edge of the World in Riyadh, riding across the rich dunes of the Empty Quarter, stargazing in AlUla, camping on the southern lush greenery of Aseer, or trekking up north in Wadi Dissah, each activity offers a uniquely Saudi experience.

The rocks of AlUla

Quad biking in Riyadh’s desert

It’s also easier than ever to make the most of Saudi’s 2,000km Red Sea coast. The pristine waters will soon be home to the luxurious Six Senses, St Regis and Ritz-Carlton Reserve, along with the first phase of the Red Sea International Airport. As one of the most marine-diverse areas in the world, it’s the perfect location to dive and explore everything from submerged shipwrecks to vibrant coral reefs, where divers can swim with turtles, sharks, and rays.

Scuba diving in the Red Sea

Gateways to
adventure

Riyadh and Jeddah, two of Saudi’s most prominent cities, not only offer cultural and culinary experiences but also serve as ideal launchpads for those venturing into active pursuits just beyond their borders.

Riyadh

The Red Sea coast, Jeddah

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi, boasts a unique blend of tradition and modernity. As the country's economic hub, this sprawling city is developing a myriad of sports facilities, entertainment, and cultural experiences, including Sports Boulevard. This linear park will connect east to west, and is planned to have dedicated areas for cyclists, team sports, horse riders, art and culture, sitting on green spaces to encourage easy access to everything the outdoors can offer.

Meanwhile, Jeddah, a major city on the Red Sea Coast, is the perfect jumping-off point for water sports enthusiasts. Tourists based in the city will find a wealth of activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing – all amidst vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Jeddah's proximity to the Red Sea’s coast also means that visitors can explore the untouched beauty of Bayadah, a pristine island 40 minutes away by boat and a marine spot favored among locals.

Visit Jeddah city beach

Explore the natural wonders of the Red Sea

Admire the iconic rock-cut tomb Qasr Al Farid in Hegra

Go stargazing in the desert

To make the most of the outdoor activities available, the ideal time to visit Riyadh or Jeddah is during the cooler months. As the summer heat subsides, this time of year presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy the many activities Saudi has to offer.

AlUla

A sporting
oasis

As laid out in its Vision 2030, the hosting of prestigious international events and development of state-of-the-art sports infrastructure was just the beginning of Saudi’s ambition, and the country continues on its path to becoming a sporting oasis for locals and visitors alike.

And with a wide range of sporting events and activities on offer, Saudi is ready to welcome outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Many countries can easily obtain e-visas within minutes, allowing them to visit the country and to enjoy sports, all while the Kingdom remains just a four-hour flight away for 250 million individuals. So, whether you’re a football fan looking to attend the FIFA Club World Cup, or a nature lover seeking to explore the treasures of the Red Sea, Saudi has something unique for everyone to enjoy.

Riyadh Jeddah