Saudi Arabia is the official host of FIFA World Cup 2024 and the country has some otherworldly plans one of the stadiums which will host the matches. The football world cup, a quadrennial event, is one of the biggest sporting tournaments to be played in the world and Saudi Arabia is leaving no stone unturned to make it an unforgettable experience for the fans. One of the stadiums the host country is planning to build will be not on the ground but 1,150 ft (350 metres) above the earth surface.<h2>Saudi plans stadium above the ground for FIFA World Cup 2034</h2>The planned stadium, called NEOM, will be built in planned city The Line with an overall investment of US $1 billion. The stadium photos, which are a glimpse of how it would look, were posted by NEOM's social media X account and are going viral for what seems an engineering marvel.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEOMStadium?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEOMStadium</a> will be the most unique stadium in the world, over 350m above ground and seamlessly integrated into THE LINE. It will feature cutting-edge innovations to enhance viewing and participation experiences.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeToSaudi34?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeToSaudi34</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Saudi34?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Saudi34</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEOM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEOM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Saudi2034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Saudi2034</a> <a href="https://t.co/3ouxWUEnkV">pic.twitter.com/3ouxWUEnkV</a>&mdash; NEOM (@NEOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/NEOM/status/1866898266333364257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Saudi Arabia plans to build Neom Stadium, a 350-meter-high, renewable-powered arena in The Line. Set to open around 2032, it will host 2034 World Cup matches up to the quarterfinals. <a href="https://t.co/0kfxT1pUin">pic.twitter.com/0kfxT1pUin</a>&mdash; Viral Vibes (@x_viral_vibes) <a href="https://twitter.com/x_viral_vibes/status/1982940593119736093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The stadium will have a capacity of 46,000 people and the construction will start by 2027 with an expected completion date of 2032. It will host various FIFA World Cup matches including group stage, Round of 32, Round of 16 and the quarter-finals.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/women-s-world-cup-2025-1st-semi-final-wolvaardt-scores-stunning-169-as-sa-w-post-record-total-vs-eng-w-1761744417691">SA-W skipper Laura Wolvaardt tears record books during sensational 169 vs ENG-W</a><h2>What else about the Sky Stadium?</h2>The stadium is expected to run on renewable energy which is expected to be generated from solar and wind mills, given the vast desert area in the Middle Eastern country. It will also use green revolution material in construction, as reported by Saudi-based Construction Review magazine. The stadium will also have state-of-the-art lighting, cooling and digital fan experience technology.Once done serving as one of the venues for the FIFA World Cup 2034, the stadium will remain operational throughout the year for various sporting events in the country and across the world.

The planned stadium, called NEOM, will be built in planned city The Line with an overall investment of US $1 billion. The stadium photos, which are a glimpse of how it would look, were posted by NEOM's social media X account and are going viral for what seems an engineering marvel.

Saudi Arabia is the official host of FIFA World Cup 2024 and the country has some otherworldly plans one of the stadiums which will host the matches. The football world cup, a quadrennial event, is one of the biggest sporting tournaments to be played in the world and Saudi Arabia is leaving no stone unturned to make it an unforgettable experience for the fans. One of the stadiums the host country is planning to build will be not on the ground but 1,150 ft (350 metres) above the earth surface. Saudi plans stadium above the ground for FIFA World Cup 2034 The planned stadium, called NEOM, will be built in planned city The Line with an overall investment of US $1 billion. The stadium photos, which are a glimpse of how it would look, were posted by NEOM's social media X account and are going viral for what seems an engineering marvel.

The planned stadium, called NEOM, will be built in planned city The Line with an overall investment of US $1 billion. The stadium photos, which are a glimpse of how it would look, were posted by NEOM's social media X account and are going viral for what seems an engineering marvel.

Saudi Arabia plans building out-of-the-world 'Sky Stadium' for FIFA World Cup 2034 - Pics Inside

New Delhi, India
Saudi Arabia is the second country in the Gulf to get hosting rights for a FIFA World Cup. In a jaw-dropping announcement earlier, Saudi was named the host of the 2034 edition, 12 years after Qatar hosted this sporting spectacle for the first time. However, unlike in Qatar, where the government made a U-turn a few days after announcing no liquor for fans during the event, Saudi has cleared its stance, saying no alcohol will be served during, before or after the tournament.
During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws. 
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-wants-to-run-brazils-football-to-help-regain-its-glory-as-world-champions-784763">Ronaldo wants to run Brazil’s football to help regain its glory as world champions</a>
Though they barred everyone from consuming liquor during any game inside the stadium or its premises, the government allowed foreign citizens to purchase it from specific stores and drink in waterholes in select hotels in the capital city of Doha. 
Per the latest report, Saudi is highly unlikely to relax any laws around it for the showpiece event.
“FIFA sources told the Guardian there were no plans to pressure the Saudi government to relax their laws. FIFA has not publicly addressed the matter, but insiders confirmed that there will be no beer sales at matches,” a Guardian report claimed.
<h2>'Stay home if you cannot respect rules'</h2>
Meanwhile, Saudi banned alcohol, including its sale and consumption since 1952, even for foreign citizens, with the violation inviting fines, jail, public flogging or even deportation. Considering the harsh punishments, European and American fans were seemingly concerned and disappointed when FIFA allotted the 2034 edition to Saudi Arabia. 
Their liquor laws are strict enough not to allow even the luxury hotels in the country to sell alcohol. 
Last year, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, in a chat with Sky News, said it would not be possible to lift some of its restrictions, adding ‘the World Cup is for everyone’ and that those who feel uncomfortable about it can avoid travelling.
“If you are against that, and you don’t feel like you’re going to enjoy your time coming, and you can’t respect that rule, then don’t come. It’s as simple as that,” a report in the Indian Express said. 
Besides, he said that hundreds of sporting events have taken place in Saudi and all have been dry events, including Saudi GP, where the drivers sprinkle rose water instead of spraying wine.
“We’ve had over 100 global sporting events that have already taken place in Saudi Arabia. No alcohol was served in those tournaments. We had three million sports fans come in and enjoy those tournaments that have come and come again,” he said in a chat with Reuters last year. 
(With inputs from agencies)

During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws. 



New Delhi, India Saudi Arabia is the second country in the Gulf to get hosting rights for a FIFA World Cup. In a jaw-dropping announcement earlier, Saudi was named the host of the 2034 edition, 12 years after Qatar hosted this sporting spectacle for the first time. However, unlike in Qatar, where the government made a U-turn a few days after announcing no liquor for fans during the event, Saudi has cleared its stance, saying no alcohol will be served during, before or after the tournament. During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws. ALSO READ: Ronaldo wants to run Brazil’s football to help regain its glory as world champions Though they barred everyone from consuming liquor during any game inside the stadium or its premises, the government allowed foreign citizens to purchase it from specific stores and drink in waterholes in select hotels in the capital city of Doha. Per the latest report, Saudi is highly unlikely to relax any laws around it for the showpiece event. “FIFA sources told the Guardian there were no plans to pressure the Saudi government to relax their laws. FIFA has not publicly addressed the matter, but insiders confirmed that there will be no beer sales at matches,” a Guardian report claimed. 'Stay home if you cannot respect rules' Meanwhile, Saudi banned alcohol, including its sale and consumption since 1952, even for foreign citizens, with the violation inviting fines, jail, public flogging or even deportation. Considering the harsh punishments, European and American fans were seemingly concerned and disappointed when FIFA allotted the 2034 edition to Saudi Arabia. Their liquor laws are strict enough not to allow even the luxury hotels in the country to sell alcohol. Last year, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, in a chat with Sky News, said it would not be possible to lift some of its restrictions, adding ‘the World Cup is for everyone’ and that those who feel uncomfortable about it can avoid travelling. “If you are against that, and you don’t feel like you’re going to enjoy your time coming, and you can’t respect that rule, then don’t come. It’s as simple as that,” a report in the Indian Express said. Besides, he said that hundreds of sporting events have taken place in Saudi and all have been dry events, including Saudi GP, where the drivers sprinkle rose water instead of spraying wine. “We’ve had over 100 global sporting events that have already taken place in Saudi Arabia. No alcohol was served in those tournaments. We had three million sports fans come in and enjoy those tournaments that have come and come again,” he said in a chat with Reuters last year. (With inputs from agencies)

No alcohol for fans during FIFA World Cup 2034 in Saudi Arabia – Report

Saudi Arabia is the second country in the Gulf to get hosting rights for a FIFA World Cup. In a jaw-dropping announcement earlier, Saudi was named the host of the 2034 edition, 12 years after Qatar hosted this sporting spectacle for the first time. However, unlike in Qatar, where the government made a U-turn a few days after announcing no liquor for fans during the event, Saudi has cleared its stance, saying no alcohol will be served during, before or after the tournament.

During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-wants-to-run-brazils-football-to-help-regain-its-glory-as-world-champions-784763">Ronaldo wants to run Brazil’s football to help regain its glory as world champions</a>

Though they barred everyone from consuming liquor during any game inside the stadium or its premises, the government allowed foreign citizens to purchase it from specific stores and drink in waterholes in select hotels in the capital city of Doha.&nbsp;

Per the latest report, Saudi is highly unlikely to relax any laws around it for the showpiece event.

“FIFA sources told the Guardian there were no plans to pressure the Saudi government to relax their laws. FIFA has not publicly addressed the matter, but insiders confirmed that there will be no beer sales at matches,” a Guardian report claimed.

<h2>'Stay home if you cannot respect rules'</h2>

Meanwhile, Saudi banned alcohol, including its sale and consumption since 1952, even for foreign citizens, with the violation inviting fines, jail, public flogging or even deportation. Considering the harsh punishments, European and American fans were seemingly concerned and disappointed when FIFA allotted the 2034 edition to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Their liquor laws are strict enough not to allow even the luxury hotels in the country to sell alcohol.&nbsp;

Last year, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, in a chat with Sky News, said it would not be possible to lift some of its restrictions, adding ‘the World Cup is for everyone’ and that those who feel uncomfortable about it can avoid travelling.

“If you are against that, and you don’t feel like you’re going to enjoy your time coming, and you can’t respect that rule, then don’t come. It’s as simple as that,” a report in the Indian Express said.&nbsp;

Besides, he said that hundreds of sporting events have taken place in Saudi and all have been dry events, including Saudi GP, where the drivers sprinkle rose water instead of spraying wine.

“We’ve had over 100 global sporting events that have already taken place in Saudi Arabia. No alcohol was served in those tournaments. We had three million sports fans come in and enjoy those tournaments that have come and come again,” he said in a chat with Reuters last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia is the second country in the Gulf to get hosting rights for a FIFA World Cup. In a jaw-dropping announcement earlier, Saudi was named the host of the 2034 edition, 12 years after Qatar hosted this sporting spectacle for the first time.

Saudi Arabia is the second country in the Gulf to get hosting rights for a FIFA World Cup. In a jaw-dropping announcement earlier, Saudi was named the host of the 2034 edition, 12 years after Qatar hosted this sporting spectacle for the first time. However, unlike in Qatar, where the government made a U-turn a few days after announcing no liquor for fans during the event, Saudi has cleared its stance, saying no alcohol will be served during, before or after the tournament. During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws. ALSO READ: Ronaldo wants to run Brazil’s football to help regain its glory as world champions Though they barred everyone from consuming liquor during any game inside the stadium or its premises, the government allowed foreign citizens to purchase it from specific stores and drink in waterholes in select hotels in the capital city of Doha. Per the latest report, Saudi is highly unlikely to relax any laws around it for the showpiece event. “FIFA sources told the Guardian there were no plans to pressure the Saudi government to relax their laws. FIFA has not publicly addressed the matter, but insiders confirmed that there will be no beer sales at matches,” a Guardian report claimed. 'Stay home if you cannot respect rules' Meanwhile, Saudi banned alcohol, including its sale and consumption since 1952, even for foreign citizens, with the violation inviting fines, jail, public flogging or even deportation. Considering the harsh punishments, European and American fans were seemingly concerned and disappointed when FIFA allotted the 2034 edition to Saudi Arabia. Their liquor laws are strict enough not to allow even the luxury hotels in the country to sell alcohol. Last year, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, in a chat with Sky News, said it would not be possible to lift some of its restrictions, adding ‘the World Cup is for everyone’ and that those who feel uncomfortable about it can avoid travelling. “If you are against that, and you don’t feel like you’re going to enjoy your time coming, and you can’t respect that rule, then don’t come. It’s as simple as that,” a report in the Indian Express said. Besides, he said that hundreds of sporting events have taken place in Saudi and all have been dry events, including Saudi GP, where the drivers sprinkle rose water instead of spraying wine. “We’ve had over 100 global sporting events that have already taken place in Saudi Arabia. No alcohol was served in those tournaments. We had three million sports fans come in and enjoy those tournaments that have come and come again,” he said in a chat with Reuters last year. (With inputs from agencies)

The Australian football players union has slammed the international football governing body FIFA after it awarded 2034 Men’s FIFA World Cup hosting rights to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday (Dec 11). The decision to award Saudi Arabia the hosting rights did not go well with the players union citing significant human rights are at risk. After Qatar, Saudi Arabia will be the second West Asian nation to host the men’s FIFA World Cup with the former hosting the showpiece in 2022 December.

<h2>Australian players union slams FIFA</h2>

"The significant human rights risks linked to this tournament are well-documented," Beau Busch, Professional Footballers Australia head said in a statement emailed to Reuters on Thursday.

"By securing hosting rights to the global game’s most prestigious event, Saudi Arabia and FIFA must ensure the rights of everyone affected by the 2034 Men’s World Cup are upheld and safeguarded.

"However, FIFA’s ongoing governance failures and lack of accountability to its own human rights commitments leave no assurance that harm can or will be prevented."

Saudi Arabia has been accused by the Australian Association of human rights abuses while LGBT activists have also showcased their anger after the FIFA World Cup rights were awarded. In the build-up to the meeting and before awarding of rights, migrant workers groups and trade unions had also raised concerns over Saudi Arabia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mitchell-marsh-reveals-mantra-to-face-best-in-the-world-jasprit-bumrah-ahead-of-brisbane-test-783425">BGT: Mitchell Marsh reveals mantra to face 'best in the world' Jasprit Bumrah ahead of Brisbane Test</a>

On the football side of things, another Men’s World Cup in West Asia will result in significant fixture changes to football’s annual calendar. Like Qatar, Saudi will most probably host the World Cup in November-December, differing from the usual international break of June-July. This would result in fixture congestion in build-up and post-tournament.

The club fixture calendar will also take a significant hit with the season likely to start in late July or early August, before ending in late May or early June. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Australian football players union has slammed the international football governing body FIFA after it awarded 2034 Men’s FIFA World Cup hosting rights to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday (Dec 11).

The Australian football players union has slammed the international football governing body FIFA after it awarded 2034 Men’s FIFA World Cup hosting rights to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday (Dec 11). The decision to award Saudi Arabia the hosting rights did not go well with the players union citing significant human rights are at risk. After Qatar, Saudi Arabia will be the second West Asian nation to host the men’s FIFA World Cup with the former hosting the showpiece in 2022 December. Australian players union slams FIFA "The significant human rights risks linked to this tournament are well-documented," Beau Busch, Professional Footballers Australia head said in a statement emailed to Reuters on Thursday. "By securing hosting rights to the global game’s most prestigious event, Saudi Arabia and FIFA must ensure the rights of everyone affected by the 2034 Men’s World Cup are upheld and safeguarded. "However, FIFA’s ongoing governance failures and lack of accountability to its own human rights commitments leave no assurance that harm can or will be prevented." Saudi Arabia has been accused by the Australian Association of human rights abuses while LGBT activists have also showcased their anger after the FIFA World Cup rights were awarded. In the build-up to the meeting and before awarding of rights, migrant workers groups and trade unions had also raised concerns over Saudi Arabia. ALSO READ | BGT: Mitchell Marsh reveals mantra to face 'best in the world' Jasprit Bumrah ahead of Brisbane Test On the football side of things, another Men’s World Cup in West Asia will result in significant fixture changes to football’s annual calendar. Like Qatar, Saudi will most probably host the World Cup in November-December, differing from the usual international break of June-July. This would result in fixture congestion in build-up and post-tournament. The club fixture calendar will also take a significant hit with the season likely to start in late July or early August, before ending in late May or early June. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian players union blasts FIFA for awarding 2034 World Cup hosting rights to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 Men's Football World Cup, with global body FIFA confirming the development on December 11. Watch this report for more details!

Saudi Arabia To Host 2034 FIFA World Cup

Fosir Mia moved to Saudi Arabia thinking he would earn a handsome salary as an electrician, only to find himself hauling steel rods in harsh desert heat for paltry pay.

After 13-hour shifts at a construction site outside Riyadh, the Bangladeshi national would return to the room he shared with 11 other workers, then fight for a turn at the gas stove so he could make dinner before repeating the routine the next day.

Now back home, the 35-year-old says he was never paid for seven of his 17 months in the Gulf kingdom. He warns that a pending construction boom -- for stadiums for the 2034 World Cup and other large-scale projects -- could expose others to similar exploitation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/sven-goran-eriksson-former-england-manager-dies-at-76-after-prolonged-illness-753500">Sven-Goran Eriksson, former England manager, dies at 76 after prolonged illness</a>

"There is a lot of opportunity, but also a lot of opportunity for suffering," said Mia, who told AFP he saw project managers beat fellow labourers who dared to complain.&nbsp;

Unpaid wages, shoddy housing and hours of toil in life-threatening heat are already common grievances for migrant workers in Saudi Arabia -- some of whom, like Mia, say recruiters lied to them about the jobs they would be doing and how much they would make.

The world's biggest crude oil exporter says strengthening workers' rights is a priority under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 economic and social reform agenda, which aims to lay the groundwork for a prosperous post-oil future.

"We take allegations of forced labor extremely seriously, and we investigate any claims of this nature thoroughly," a spokesperson for the Saudi human resources and social development ministry said in response to questions from AFP.

Human rights groups nonetheless fear problems like those described by Mia could explode as Saudi Arabia gears up to host the men's football World Cup, for which it is the sole candidate.

The FIFA Congress is set to formally approve Riyadh's bid in December, and last month Saudi authorities unveiled plans to construct 11 new stadiums that labour unions estimate will easily require manpower in the hundreds of thousands.

<h2>'Window of opportunity'</h2>

Equidem, a London-based labour rights charity, says the Saudi World Cup bid creates a "window of opportunity" for reforms.&nbsp;

But if nothing changes, "tens of thousands of workers will be subjected to modern slavery and forced labour," Equidem founder Mustafa Qadri told AFP.&nbsp;

"Lives will be literally destroyed."&nbsp;

The kingdom's "kafala" sponsorship system binds foreign workers to their employers, making it difficult for them to leave their jobs.

In 2021 Riyadh announced the easing of some kafala-related restrictions, specifically when it comes to requesting exit permits, but activists say the changes were limited and exempted millions, notably domestic workers.&nbsp;

In June, the Building and Wood Workers' International union took its concerns to the International Labour Organization, filing complaints on behalf of 21,000 alleged victims of "severe human rights abuses" and wage theft in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The complaints focus on two Saudi-based construction firms that went bankrupt in 2016.

Both BWI and Equidem contend conditions for migrant workers have not improved in a country where non-Saudi nationals account for 13.4 million people out of 32.2 million total.

The Saudi human resources ministry spokesperson said such criticism was misleading.

"Unfortunately, there have been repeated allegations that are based on inaccurate information or that fail to recognize the significance of the reforms implemented and the magnitude of their positive impact," the spokesperson said.

"The Kingdom has already rectified and provided compensation for the vast majority of the historic cases of unpaid wages, with the process ongoing for reviewing the remaining few."

<h2>'Secret' suffering</h2>

Similar concerns over workers' welfare dogged neighbouring Qatar ahead of its hosting of the 2022 World Cup.&nbsp;

Amnesty International and other rights groups claimed thousands of migrant workers died in the lead-up to the tournament, though Doha has said only 37 workers on World Cup projects perished -- and only three in work-related accidents.&nbsp;

Former migrant workers in Saudi like Vyel say there is good reason for scepticism.&nbsp;

Needing money to treat his mother's heart disease, the 52-year-old from the Philippines took a cushy-sounding job coordinating social events for oil workers in eastern Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

But the firm failed to pay him regularly and he spent months living in a crowded, bedbug-infested warehouse before finally leaning on wealthy friends to buy him a ticket home.

He estimates his former employer owes him roughly $16,700, and he still feels ashamed he could not send more in remittances during his time abroad.&nbsp;

Even today he cannot bring himself to tell relatives the worst details about his time in Saudi Arabia: the power outages, the piles of garbage outside the warehouse, the rats that scurried around at night.

"I kept all those things secret," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"Of course I wouldn't want my parents to worry."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Fosir Mia moved to Saudi Arabia thinking he would earn a handsome salary as an electrician, only to find himself hauling steel rods in harsh desert heat for paltry pay.

Fosir Mia moved to Saudi Arabia thinking he would earn a handsome salary as an electrician, only to find himself hauling steel rods in harsh desert heat for paltry pay. After 13-hour shifts at a construction site outside Riyadh, the Bangladeshi national would return to the room he shared with 11 other workers, then fight for a turn at the gas stove so he could make dinner before repeating the routine the next day. Now back home, the 35-year-old says he was never paid for seven of his 17 months in the Gulf kingdom. He warns that a pending construction boom -- for stadiums for the 2034 World Cup and other large-scale projects -- could expose others to similar exploitation. Also Read: Sven-Goran Eriksson, former England manager, dies at 76 after prolonged illness "There is a lot of opportunity, but also a lot of opportunity for suffering," said Mia, who told AFP he saw project managers beat fellow labourers who dared to complain. Unpaid wages, shoddy housing and hours of toil in life-threatening heat are already common grievances for migrant workers in Saudi Arabia -- some of whom, like Mia, say recruiters lied to them about the jobs they would be doing and how much they would make. The world's biggest crude oil exporter says strengthening workers' rights is a priority under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 economic and social reform agenda, which aims to lay the groundwork for a prosperous post-oil future. "We take allegations of forced labor extremely seriously, and we investigate any claims of this nature thoroughly," a spokesperson for the Saudi human resources and social development ministry said in response to questions from AFP. Human rights groups nonetheless fear problems like those described by Mia could explode as Saudi Arabia gears up to host the men's football World Cup, for which it is the sole candidate. The FIFA Congress is set to formally approve Riyadh's bid in December, and last month Saudi authorities unveiled plans to construct 11 new stadiums that labour unions estimate will easily require manpower in the hundreds of thousands. 'Window of opportunity' Equidem, a London-based labour rights charity, says the Saudi World Cup bid creates a "window of opportunity" for reforms. But if nothing changes, "tens of thousands of workers will be subjected to modern slavery and forced labour," Equidem founder Mustafa Qadri told AFP. "Lives will be literally destroyed." The kingdom's "kafala" sponsorship system binds foreign workers to their employers, making it difficult for them to leave their jobs. In 2021 Riyadh announced the easing of some kafala-related restrictions, specifically when it comes to requesting exit permits, but activists say the changes were limited and exempted millions, notably domestic workers. In June, the Building and Wood Workers' International union took its concerns to the International Labour Organization, filing complaints on behalf of 21,000 alleged victims of "severe human rights abuses" and wage theft in Saudi Arabia. The complaints focus on two Saudi-based construction firms that went bankrupt in 2016. Both BWI and Equidem contend conditions for migrant workers have not improved in a country where non-Saudi nationals account for 13.4 million people out of 32.2 million total. The Saudi human resources ministry spokesperson said such criticism was misleading. "Unfortunately, there have been repeated allegations that are based on inaccurate information or that fail to recognize the significance of the reforms implemented and the magnitude of their positive impact," the spokesperson said. "The Kingdom has already rectified and provided compensation for the vast majority of the historic cases of unpaid wages, with the process ongoing for reviewing the remaining few." 'Secret' suffering Similar concerns over workers' welfare dogged neighbouring Qatar ahead of its hosting of the 2022 World Cup. Amnesty International and other rights groups claimed thousands of migrant workers died in the lead-up to the tournament, though Doha has said only 37 workers on World Cup projects perished -- and only three in work-related accidents. Former migrant workers in Saudi like Vyel say there is good reason for scepticism. Needing money to treat his mother's heart disease, the 52-year-old from the Philippines took a cushy-sounding job coordinating social events for oil workers in eastern Saudi Arabia. But the firm failed to pay him regularly and he spent months living in a crowded, bedbug-infested warehouse before finally leaning on wealthy friends to buy him a ticket home. He estimates his former employer owes him roughly $16,700, and he still feels ashamed he could not send more in remittances during his time abroad. Even today he cannot bring himself to tell relatives the worst details about his time in Saudi Arabia: the power outages, the piles of garbage outside the warehouse, the rats that scurried around at night. "I kept all those things secret," he told AFP. "Of course I wouldn't want my parents to worry." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Fears mount over migrants' welfare as Saudi Arabia prepares for FIFA World Cup 2034

Saudi Arabia could soon become the fourth Asian country to host the FIFA World Cup after the nation officially launched its bid on Friday (Mar 1). Saudi Arabia is now the front-runner to secure the rights to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup after FIFA had earlier announced them as the only candidate. The bid was made officially under the campaign slogan “Growing. Together" as Saudi Arabia intends to replicate its gulf neighbour&nbsp;Qatar, which hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GrowingTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GrowingTogether</a> 🌎 
 
Read more about the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Saudi2034bid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Saudi2034bid</a> official campaign launch here.
— Saudi Arabian Football Federation (@saudiff_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/saudiff_en/status/1763573106436641034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Saudi Arabia bids for FIFA World Cup</h2>

"This campaign is powered by the hopes and dreams of 32 million people in Saudi Arabia," the head of the SAFF bid unit, Hammad Albalawi, said in a statement.

"Our responsibility is to submit the best possible bid to FIFA, make our country proud, and fulfill the trust placed upon us by more than 130 Member Associations across the world who supported our bid," it added.

After a decent success during the FIFA World&nbsp; Cup 2022 in Qatar, Saudi Arabia did not hide its intentions and announced its desire to host the most-watched event on the planet. In the build-up to the official bid, Saudi Arabia has been preparing itself with lucrative football brands in the nation and&nbsp;revamping the&nbsp;Saudi Pro League (SPL), where some of the best players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema and others are applying their trade.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) revealed its bid logo, website, as well as a short bid film that celebrates "the passion, spirit and diversity of football in Saudi Arabia".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-bayer-leverkusen-handed-title-advantage-as-bayern-munich-drop-points-at-freiburg-695717">Bundesliga: Bayer Leverkusen handed title advantage as Bayern Munich drop points at Freiburg</a>

The Saudi Kingdom has made significant investments in sports as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform drive, which wants to establish Saudi Arabia as a hub for commerce, tourism and sports.

The men's tennis governing body, the ATP, and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced a "multi-year strategic partnership" on Wednesday.

Since 2021, PIF has made significant investments in several major sports, such as the establishment of the LIV golf circuit, which is a competitor to the PGA, and the acquisition of Newcastle United, an English Premier League team.

Saudi Arabia could soon become the fourth Asian country to host the FIFA World Cup after the nation officially launched its bid on Friday (Mar 1). Saudi Arabia is now the front-runner to secure the rights to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup after FIFA had earlier announced them as the only candidate.

Saudi Arabia could soon become the fourth Asian country to host the FIFA World Cup after the nation officially launched its bid on Friday (Mar 1). Saudi Arabia is now the front-runner to secure the rights to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup after FIFA had earlier announced them as the only candidate. The bid was made officially under the campaign slogan “Growing. Together" as Saudi Arabia intends to replicate its gulf neighbour Qatar, which hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022. #GrowingTogether 🌎 Read more about the #Saudi2034bid official campaign launch here. — Saudi Arabian Football Federation (@saudiff_en) March 1, 2024 × Saudi Arabia bids for FIFA World Cup "This campaign is powered by the hopes and dreams of 32 million people in Saudi Arabia," the head of the SAFF bid unit, Hammad Albalawi, said in a statement. "Our responsibility is to submit the best possible bid to FIFA, make our country proud, and fulfill the trust placed upon us by more than 130 Member Associations across the world who supported our bid," it added. After a decent success during the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar, Saudi Arabia did not hide its intentions and announced its desire to host the most-watched event on the planet. In the build-up to the official bid, Saudi Arabia has been preparing itself with lucrative football brands in the nation and revamping the Saudi Pro League (SPL), where some of the best players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema and others are applying their trade. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) revealed its bid logo, website, as well as a short bid film that celebrates "the passion, spirit and diversity of football in Saudi Arabia". ALSO READ | Bundesliga: Bayer Leverkusen handed title advantage as Bayern Munich drop points at Freiburg The Saudi Kingdom has made significant investments in sports as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform drive, which wants to establish Saudi Arabia as a hub for commerce, tourism and sports. The men's tennis governing body, the ATP, and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced a "multi-year strategic partnership" on Wednesday. Since 2021, PIF has made significant investments in several major sports, such as the establishment of the LIV golf circuit, which is a competitor to the PGA, and the acquisition of Newcastle United, an English Premier League team.

Saudi Arabia ready to host 2034 FIFA World Cup, launches official bid with campaign slogan 'Growing. Together'

Saudi Arabia is prepared to host the 2034 World Cup in summer or winter, its football chief told AFP, as the conservative oil giant was anointed the tournament's host just weeks after announcing a bid. The quickfire crowning of the alcohol-free desert monarchy, which first allowed non-religious foreign tourists in 2019, comes less than a year after neighbouring Qatar held the first winter World Cup, and the first in the Middle East.

Despite summer temperatures touching 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in the major cities, Saudi Arabian Football Federation president Yasser al-Misehal did not rule out playing the tournament in the hottest months. "Of course, we are ready for all possibilities," Misehal said late on Tuesday at the Asian Football Confederation awards in Doha, when asked about the tournament's timing.

"Today there are many new technologies that help you with cooling or adding air conditioners in stadiums, in addition to the fact that there are many cities in the kingdom that enjoy a very wonderful atmosphere in the summer," he said. Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter which is undergoing dizzying economic reforms, threw its hat in the ring on October 4, just 27 days before a truncated bidding process for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups ended on Tuesday.&nbsp;

With the 2026 tournament set for the US, Canada and Mexico, and 2030 destined for Spain, Morocco and Portugal with South American involvement, only candidates from the Asian and Oceanian confederations were eligible for 2034, due to FIFA's continental rotation policy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/global-warming-threatens-winter-olympics-future-organisers-soften-demand-in-order-to-retain-potential-hosts-664681">Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts</a>

After Australia, the only other potential bidder, dropped out on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia was the sole candidate. Its successful bid was confirmed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Instagram.

<h2>Human rights&nbsp;</h2>

The World Cup is just the latest in a string of Saudi sporting acquisitions under its 38-year-old de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, including Formula One, heavyweight boxing, Newcastle United and LIV Golf.Saudi clubs backed by the Public Investment Fund sovereign wealth vehicle have signed off hundreds of millions of dollars on star footballers this year, hiring the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema in an unprecedented binge.

However, serious human rights concerns continue to plague Saudi Arabia, including the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, laws against homosexuality, gender inequality, freedom of speech and frequent use of the death penalty. Awarding the World Cup to Saudi Arabia "despite its appalling human rights record and closed door to any monitoring exposes FIFA's commitments to human rights as a sham", said Minky Worden, director of global initiatives at Human Rights Watch.

However, SAFF said hosting the tournament is an "honour and privilege", in a statement posted on social media late on Tuesday. "Driven by a huge passion for the game by our young nation, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation is fully committed to meeting and exceeding the bid's requirements," it said.

<h2>Going it alone&nbsp;</h2>

Misehal also indicated that Saudi Arabia intends to push ahead and host the tournament alone, without asking its neighbours to hold any games. That would make Saudi the first country to organise the newly expanded, 48-team World Cup on its own, after the joint hostings in 2026 and 2030.

"Saudi Arabia will submit a separate bid," Misehal said, when asked if another country would hold any matches. Summers in the desert kingdom can touch 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit), temperatures that would be considered dangerous for football and likely too hot for fans to be outside.

Some cities enjoy temperate weather in the summer, including Abha, Taif and Al-Baha, which hosted the Arab Club Champions Cup in July and August.&nbsp;However, none of those cities has international-level stadiums, and the bigger Saudi venues are clustered in the major cities of Riyadh and Jeddah.

Despite questions over the bidding process and human rights, residents of the capital Riyadh hailed the news that Saudi Arabia will host the World Cup. "Saudi Arabia hosting World Cup 2034 is great news and it didn't come from nowhere," said 62-year-old Saud al-Oreifi, pointing to the country's growing portfolio of sports events.

"It came as a result of efforts and successes achieved in the past." Kuwaiti visitor Thamer al-Choiebi was similarly enthusiastic, saying: "I am proud in front of the whole world that the kingdom of Saudi Arabia will honour not only the Saudis but the whole Arab region."

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Saudi Arabia is prepared to host the 2034 World Cup in summer or winter, its football chief told AFP, as the conservative oil giant was anointed the tournament's host just weeks after announcing a bid.

Saudi Arabia is prepared to host the 2034 World Cup in summer or winter, its football chief told AFP, as the conservative oil giant was anointed the tournament's host just weeks after announcing a bid. The quickfire crowning of the alcohol-free desert monarchy, which first allowed non-religious foreign tourists in 2019, comes less than a year after neighbouring Qatar held the first winter World Cup, and the first in the Middle East. Despite summer temperatures touching 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in the major cities, Saudi Arabian Football Federation president Yasser al-Misehal did not rule out playing the tournament in the hottest months. "Of course, we are ready for all possibilities," Misehal said late on Tuesday at the Asian Football Confederation awards in Doha, when asked about the tournament's timing. "Today there are many new technologies that help you with cooling or adding air conditioners in stadiums, in addition to the fact that there are many cities in the kingdom that enjoy a very wonderful atmosphere in the summer," he said. Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter which is undergoing dizzying economic reforms, threw its hat in the ring on October 4, just 27 days before a truncated bidding process for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups ended on Tuesday. With the 2026 tournament set for the US, Canada and Mexico, and 2030 destined for Spain, Morocco and Portugal with South American involvement, only candidates from the Asian and Oceanian confederations were eligible for 2034, due to FIFA's continental rotation policy. Also Read: Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts After Australia, the only other potential bidder, dropped out on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia was the sole candidate. Its successful bid was confirmed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Instagram. Human rights The World Cup is just the latest in a string of Saudi sporting acquisitions under its 38-year-old de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, including Formula One, heavyweight boxing, Newcastle United and LIV Golf.Saudi clubs backed by the Public Investment Fund sovereign wealth vehicle have signed off hundreds of millions of dollars on star footballers this year, hiring the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema in an unprecedented binge. However, serious human rights concerns continue to plague Saudi Arabia, including the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, laws against homosexuality, gender inequality, freedom of speech and frequent use of the death penalty. Awarding the World Cup to Saudi Arabia "despite its appalling human rights record and closed door to any monitoring exposes FIFA's commitments to human rights as a sham", said Minky Worden, director of global initiatives at Human Rights Watch. However, SAFF said hosting the tournament is an "honour and privilege", in a statement posted on social media late on Tuesday. "Driven by a huge passion for the game by our young nation, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation is fully committed to meeting and exceeding the bid's requirements," it said. Going it alone Misehal also indicated that Saudi Arabia intends to push ahead and host the tournament alone, without asking its neighbours to hold any games. That would make Saudi the first country to organise the newly expanded, 48-team World Cup on its own, after the joint hostings in 2026 and 2030. "Saudi Arabia will submit a separate bid," Misehal said, when asked if another country would hold any matches. Summers in the desert kingdom can touch 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit), temperatures that would be considered dangerous for football and likely too hot for fans to be outside. Some cities enjoy temperate weather in the summer, including Abha, Taif and Al-Baha, which hosted the Arab Club Champions Cup in July and August. However, none of those cities has international-level stadiums, and the bigger Saudi venues are clustered in the major cities of Riyadh and Jeddah. Despite questions over the bidding process and human rights, residents of the capital Riyadh hailed the news that Saudi Arabia will host the World Cup. "Saudi Arabia hosting World Cup 2034 is great news and it didn't come from nowhere," said 62-year-old Saud al-Oreifi, pointing to the country's growing portfolio of sports events. "It came as a result of efforts and successes achieved in the past." Kuwaiti visitor Thamer al-Choiebi was similarly enthusiastic, saying: "I am proud in front of the whole world that the kingdom of Saudi Arabia will honour not only the Saudis but the whole Arab region." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia set for transition after rapid bid, offer winter and summer options for 2034 FIFA World Cup

In a sensational development on Wednesday (Oct 4), Saudi Arabia has formally submitted a bid to host the 2034 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The development comes on a busy day in Switzerland’s Lausanne where the hosts for the 2030 World Cup were also declared. If the bid is successful, Saudi Arabia will become the fourth Asian nation to host the FIFA Men’s World Cup, with Qatar, Japan, and South Korea being the other hosts in the past.

<h2>Saudi bid for 2034 showpiece event</h2>

The bid "intends to deliver a world-class tournament and will draw inspiration from Saudi Arabia's ongoing social and economic transformation and the country's deep-rooted passion for football", said a statement from the Saudi Arabian football federation.

Like the 2022 version of the FIFA World Cup, there is form possibility that the tournament could take place in winter to avoid the hot climate in Saudi Arabia. The Qatar World Cup was the first time, the FIFA World Cup took place in winter, but could once again disturb FIFA’s calendar in 2034.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cwc-23-from-sourav-ganguly-to-md-azharuddin-indian-captains-with-most-sixes-in-an-odi-world-cup-642491">CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup</a>

Initially, Saudi Arabia was interested in bidding for the 2030 World Cup, but that plan was forked out earlier in the day. FIFA on Wednesday officially announced Europe, Africa, and South America as the joint-host for the tournament in 2030. The deal will see the likes of Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay host the event, in a first.

Saudi Arabia’s football has been on the rise in recent years with their clubs bringing in big-name players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kante applying their trade in the nation. The 2023 summer transfer window saw a big overhaul in Saudi football with clubs spending big money on players as well as managers.

The FIFA World Cup was first hosted in Asia in 2002 when Brazil won the tournament beating Germany in the final while the 2022 edition saw Lionel Messi’s Argentina lift the prize asset. Argentina beat France in the final as they ended their 36-year wait for the World Cup.

&nbsp;

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In a sensational development on Wednesday (Oct 4), Saudi Arabia has formally submitted a bid to host the 2034 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The development comes on a busy day in Switzerland’s Lausanne where the hosts for the 2030 World Cup were also declared.

In a sensational development on Wednesday (Oct 4), Saudi Arabia has formally submitted a bid to host the 2034 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The development comes on a busy day in Switzerland’s Lausanne where the hosts for the 2030 World Cup were also declared. If the bid is successful, Saudi Arabia will become the fourth Asian nation to host the FIFA Men’s World Cup, with Qatar, Japan, and South Korea being the other hosts in the past. Saudi bid for 2034 showpiece event The bid "intends to deliver a world-class tournament and will draw inspiration from Saudi Arabia's ongoing social and economic transformation and the country's deep-rooted passion for football", said a statement from the Saudi Arabian football federation. Like the 2022 version of the FIFA World Cup, there is form possibility that the tournament could take place in winter to avoid the hot climate in Saudi Arabia. The Qatar World Cup was the first time, the FIFA World Cup took place in winter, but could once again disturb FIFA’s calendar in 2034. ALSO READ | CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup Initially, Saudi Arabia was interested in bidding for the 2030 World Cup, but that plan was forked out earlier in the day. FIFA on Wednesday officially announced Europe, Africa, and South America as the joint-host for the tournament in 2030. The deal will see the likes of Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay host the event, in a first. Saudi Arabia’s football has been on the rise in recent years with their clubs bringing in big-name players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kante applying their trade in the nation. The 2023 summer transfer window saw a big overhaul in Saudi football with clubs spending big money on players as well as managers. The FIFA World Cup was first hosted in Asia in 2002 when Brazil won the tournament beating Germany in the final while the 2022 edition saw Lionel Messi’s Argentina lift the prize asset. Argentina beat France in the final as they ended their 36-year wait for the World Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Official: Saudi Arabia announces formal bid to host 2034 FIFA Men's World Cup