Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup as a strictly alcohol-free event, officials confirmed Thursday, doubling down on the kingdom’s cultural and religious norms despite expectations of pushback from some international football fans.
The announcement, delivered by Saudi Ambassador to the U.K. Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, sets the stage for a tournament steeped in tradition but already raising questions about balancing local values with global fan expectations.
“At this point, we do not serve alcohol,” Prince Khalid stated bluntly during an interview with British broadcaster LBC. “There is lots of fun to be had without it—it’s not 100% necessary. If you want to drink afterward, you’re welcome to, but not here.” The policy aligns with Saudi Arabia’s nationwide ban on alcohol, rooted in Islamic law, and marks a firmer stance than neighboring Qatar’s 2022 World Cup, which initially permitted limited sales before abruptly reversing course days before kickoff.
The decision underscores Saudi Arabia’s determination to leverage the World Cup as a showcase of its identity, even as it invests billions to position itself as a global sports hub. Over the past decade, the kingdom has lured football superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar to its domestic league, constructed state-of-the-art stadiums, and secured high-profile events—all part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and soften its international image.
Prince Khalid emphasized that hospitality would remain a priority, promising “vibrant” fan experiences through cultural events, cutting-edge venues, and what he called “authentic Saudi warmth.” Yet his remarks also carried a defiant tone. “We like to embrace people within the bounds of our culture,” he said. “We don’t wish to adjust our culture because of someone else. I mean, come on—you cannot make it without a drink?”
Reactions to the alcohol ban have been mixed. While some applaud Saudi Arabia for resisting external pressures, others fear the move could deter visitors accustomed to the raucous, beer-fueled atmosphere of past tournaments. During Qatar’s World Cup, last-minute restrictions on alcohol sales frustrated fans but did not derail the event, suggesting Saudi officials may be banking on a similar outcome.
FIFA, which faced criticism for awarding the tournament to Saudi Arabia amid ongoing scrutiny of the kingdom’s human rights record, has yet to comment publicly on the alcohol policy. However, sources indicate behind-the-scenes negotiations are underway to address logistical concerns, including potential “dry zones” around stadiums and accommodations for foreign visitors seeking alternative entertainment.
The alcohol ban is likely to reignite debates about cultural adaptation in global sporting events. Critics argue that FIFA’s willingness to accommodate Saudi norms—while previously pressuring other hosts to relax restrictions—highlights inconsistencies in its approach. Supporters, however, counter that respecting a host nation’s laws is non-negotiable.
With nine years until the tournament, Saudi Arabia faces a tightrope walk: delivering a world-class event without compromising its values. For now, the message is clear—the 2034 World Cup will be a celebration of football, Saudi-style. Whether fans embrace that vision, or chafe at its limits, remains to be seen.
The decision also raises practical questions. How will authorities enforce the ban across a likely influx of over a million visitors? Will private resorts or diplomatic compounds be exempt? And could the policy evolve under mounting pressure? For a nation eager to prove its prowess on the global stage, the stakes—and scrutiny—have never been higher.
