Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup includes ambitious plans to construct 11 new stadiums, one of which will be built 350 meters above ground level.
Despite being the sole contender for the 2034 World Cup hosting rights, Saudi Arabia officially submitted its bid to FIFA by presenting its bid book in Paris on Wednesday, meeting the deadline set last October.
Among the striking elements of the bid is a proposal to build a stadium in Neom, a futuristic city yet to be completed.
Although Neom is expected to be fully operational by 2039, the Saudi bid highlights that the 45,000-seat stadium will be one of the “most distinctive and iconic stadiums in the world,” set into a cliff within The Line, a linear smart city elevated above the ground.
The stadium will only be accessible to driverless vehicles and high-speed lifts.
“The stadium will be situated within THE LINE — more than 350 meters above ground,” the Saudi bid book said.
“It will provide an unprecedented and exceptional experience for fans scheduled to attend tournament matches.
“Additionally, the stadium will be run entirely on renewable energy, generated primarily from wind and solar sources, marking a historic shift in stadium design, globally.”
The 2034 World Cup will feature 48 teams competing across five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and Neom. In the capital, Riyadh, eight stadiums are planned, including the proposed 92,000-capacity King Salman Stadium, which will host both the opening game and the World Cup Final.
“Together, we are working towards materializing Saudi Arabia’s dream of hosting the FIFA World Cup into a tangible reality — as outlined within our official bid book,” Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sport, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal Al Saud, said.
“These plans will combine our rich football heritage with our deep passion for the game and will ensure Saudi Arabia’s success as the first nation to host a 48-team tournament in one country.”
FIFA is expected to announce the host nation for the 2034 World Cup in late 2024. The 2026 tournament will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
For the 2030 World Cup, a joint bid from Spain, Portugal, and Morocco is the sole contender for the hosting rights.