Saudi Arabia bans alcohol at 2034 FIFA World Cup
What's the story
Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, has announced a total ban on alcohol during the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The prohibition will extend to all venues associated with the tournament, including hotels.
This decision aligns with Saudi Arabia's existing restrictions on alcohol consumption within its borders.
Here's more about the alcohol ban in the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Official announcement
Ambassador's statement on alcohol ban
Speaking to LBC, Prince Khalid confirmed the alcohol ban for the upcoming World Cup.
"At the moment, we don't allow alcohol," he said.
He further stressed that enjoyment of the event doesn't require alcohol consumption, saying "Plenty of fun can be had without alcohol - it's not 100% necessary and if you want to drink after you leave, you're welcome to, but at the moment we don't have alcohol."
Clarification
No exceptions to alcohol ban
Prince Khalid clarified that the ban would be strictly enforced, with no exceptions even for fans returning to their hotels.
This is a stark contrast to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where alcohol was allowed in designated fan zones and hotel bars.
"No, there is no alcohol at all. Rather like our weather, it's a dry country," he said during the interview.
Cultural respect
Saudi Arabia's stance on cultural accommodation
Prince Khalid stressed that Saudi Arabia will respect its own culture while hosting international events.
"Everyone has their own culture. We're happy to accommodate people within the boundaries of our culture but we don't want to change our culture for someone else," he said.
This highlights the country's stance on balancing global expectations with local customs and traditions during major events like the World Cup.
Inclusivity pledge
Saudi Arabia's assurance of inclusivity
Despite strict laws against same-sex relations and the non-recognition of transgender individuals, Prince Khalid assured everyone would be welcomed at the World Cup.
"We will welcome everyone in Saudi. It is not a Saudi event, it is a world event and, to a large extent, we will welcome everyone who wants to come," he said.
This assurance seeks to quell concerns about inclusivity during the tournament.
Bid
Saudi Arabia wins right to host men's tournament
Earlier, FIFA confirmed Saudi Arabia as the host of the 2034 World Cup, while Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will co-host the 2030 edition, with the first three matches in South America.
Both bids were uncontested and ratified at an online FIFA Congress.
However, Saudi Arabia's selection has sparked criticism over "sportswashing" claims, with concerns over human rights violations, restrictions on free speech, criminalization of homosexuality, and limited women's rights.
FIFA's decision process also faced scrutiny for limiting voting options.
Twitter Post
X post confirming Saudi Arabia as the host nation
IT’S OFFICIAL: FIFA ANNOUNCES SAUDI ARABIA AS THE FIFA WORLD CUP 2034™️ HOST NATION 🏆🇸🇦#WelcomeToSaudi34#Saudi34 pic.twitter.com/2YjTLYvpoA
— Saudi Arabia FIFA World Cup 2034™️ (@Saudi2034) December 11, 2024