Saudi Arabia Takes The Lead In Global Sports Tourism With Football Legends And Iconic Events: What Tourists Need To Know

Published on October 27, 2025

Saudi Arabia has become one of the most exciting sports tourism destinations in the world. There is a seizure economic diversification along with promoting culture. Hence sports leadership in the south pro-league has shifted to the head of economic diplomacy in the field sporting. There is a strong motorsports along with world class football, box, esports and a lot more due to the vision 2030 strategy.

The country’s investment in state-of-the-art sports infrastructure and its welcoming atmosphere for international visitors are the driving forces behind this growing sports tourism movement.

The Saudi Pro League: The Heart of Saudi Football

At the centre of Saudi Arabia’s sports revolution is the Saudi Pro League (SPL). The league, which has gained immense popularity, is home to legendary footballers like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. These football icons have not only raised the standard of play but also turned the SPL into a global spectacle. As a result, international tourists have flocked to Saudi Arabia to experience the thrilling atmosphere in stadiums like Jeddah’s King Abdullah Sports City.

The SPL’s growing influence has catapulted the Kingdom into the international sports scene, attracting football lovers from across the globe. Fans from every corner of the world are now eager to witness these legends play on Saudi soil, sparking a new wave of sports tourism. With affordable ticket prices, starting at SAR 10, attending a live match has become accessible to people from various walks of life. Almost 30 percent of seats are capped at SAR 30, ensuring a diverse crowd of fans fills the stands every game night.

A Football Fan’s Dream in Jeddah: Match Day Magic

The football scene in Jeddah provides an unparalleled experience for sports tourists. The energy is contagious, and the fervour among fans is palpable. Whether it’s chanting for Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr, or the iconic Al-Hilal, each match is an emotional celebration of football passion. The atmosphere is electric, from the moment fans start gathering outside King Abdullah Sports City, to the explosive celebrations after each goal.

VIP Gold seats add a touch of luxury, offering top-tier hospitality, Arabic coffee, fan merchandise and even AI-powered photo booths that allow fans to get up close with the stars. Despite the high-end offerings, the event remains accessible, bringing together fans from all walks of life who share a love for the beautiful game.

Tour guides in Jeddah are now commonly taking visitors on curated tours around the stadiums and sports venues, showcasing the rapid transformation of the city’s sporting infrastructure and rich football culture.

Saudi Arabia’s Sports Investment: More Than Just Football

Saudi Arabia’s sporting investments extend far beyond football. The Kingdom has embraced diverse sporting disciplines, hosting over 100 major events across more than 40 sports since 2019. From Formula 1 races and international boxing bouts to the world-famous Esports World Cup, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global sports and entertainment hub.

In 2025, the country hosted the Esports World Cup, with a record-breaking prize pool of 70 million USD. This monumental event further solidified Saudi Arabia’s place at the forefront of the esports world. For sports tourists, this means more than just attending a game, it’s about experiencing the thrill of global events and the future of competitive sports.

Women’s Sports: A New Chapter for Saudi Arabia

A lesser-known yet highly significant aspect of Saudi Arabia’s sports tourism boom is its push towards inclusivity in sports. Women’s sports, once a rarity in the Kingdom, are now receiving substantial investments and support. The establishment of initiatives like the Saudi Sports for All Federation and the PIF WTA Maternity Fund Program is opening doors for female athletes across various disciplines.

The shift has not only increased the participation of women in sports but has also attracted female tourists eager to witness this cultural transformation. Saudi Arabia is offering female visitors the chance to engage with sports at both a grassroots and professional level, cementing its status as a destination that values inclusivity in sports.

Sports Tourism: A Key Pillar of Vision 2030

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan is the backbone of this sports tourism revolution. Saudi Arabia aims to host 150 million visitors annually by 2030, and sports tourism is an integral part of this vision. The government’s commitment to creating world-class sports venues, smart cities, and entertainment districts is paving the way for Saudi Arabia to become a go-to destination for sports lovers from around the world.

With facilities like the King Abdulaziz International Stadium in Jeddah and the upcoming Lusail Stadium, Saudi Arabia is developing a sports ecosystem that rivals the best in the world. Sports fans visiting the country will not only experience thrilling games but will also find an enriched cultural experience, complete with state-of-the-art infrastructure and unmatched hospitality.

Travel Essentials for Sports Tourists in Saudi Arabia

Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR); most places accept cards.
Visa: Apply online for an e-visa before your trip.
Weather: Mild winters and warm autumns make it ideal for match nights under open skies.
Getting There: Saudia Airlines connects major Indian cities to Jeddah and Riyadh with over 51 weekly flights. Business class offers a comfortable flying experience.

Saudi Arabia is the New Frontier for Sports Tourists

For football enthusiasts and sports tourists alike, Saudi Arabia offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience. The combination of world-class sporting events, high-profile international players, and a rapidly evolving sporting landscape makes it the new frontier for sports tourism. As the country continues to evolve, more visitors will find themselves drawn to the Kingdom, not only for its cultural heritage but for the unparalleled sports experiences it offers.

Because of its endless variety of attractions, and its low prices on match tickets, and, its focus on inclusivity, Saudi Arabia has placed itself as a sight for sore eyes for those who love sports. For those wishing to investigate the next hot destination Saud Arabia will not disappoint!