Saudi Tourism Licenses Surge 390% Ahead of 2034 World Cup

Tourism licences in Saudi Arabia have surged by 390% since the Kingdom was awarded the rights to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, according to Vice Minister of Tourism Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al Saud. Speaking at the Sports Investment Forum in Riyadh, she highlighted the growing investor interest in the Kingdom’s tourism sector, particularly as international focus sharpens ahead of the global tournament.

The increase in licences is part of a broader movement across the private sector to prepare for a significant influx of global visitors, as Saudi Arabia scales up its hospitality and infrastructure in line with Vision 2030. The forum underscored how sports are being leveraged as a driver of economic diversification, with the upcoming World Cup expected to play a key role.

Analysts have estimated that hosting the tournament could contribute between USD 9 billion and USD 14 billion to the national GDP. Projections also indicate that the event could create up to 1.5 million jobs and accelerate the development of 230,000 hotel rooms across five cities.

According to FIFA reports, hosting the World Cup entails significant operational costs, including USD 378.4 million for television operations and USD 273.8 million for staffing and workforce requirements.

The three-day Sports Investment Forum, running through April 9th, brings together public and private stakeholders exploring the Kingdom’s evolving sports ecosystem and its role in economic transformation.