Saudi Sports Sector Set to Top $22 Billion by 2030

Updated projections point to strong growth for Saudi Arabia's sports sector, with estimates suggesting the industry could exceed $22.4 billion in value by 2030. A more recent 2026 estimate placed the figure near SAR 85 billion by the end of the decade.

Beyond the headline valuation, the sector is projected to contribute around $16.5 billion annually to the Kingdom's gross domestic product by 2030, representing roughly 1.5% of non-oil GDP. These figures reflect the growing weight of sport as a driver of economic diversification.

Why it matters

The sports sector's expansion aligns with broader efforts under رؤية السعودية 2030 to diversify the economy away from oil. As the industry scales, it is expected to open new opportunities in areas such as events, facilities, retail, media, and tourism — sectors that touch daily life for residents and expats across the Kingdom.

For communities in الرياض, جدة, and beyond, a larger sports economy can mean more local events, expanded venues, and increased demand for jobs and services connected to fitness, entertainment, and hospitality.

The projections underline how sport has moved from a leisure activity to a measurable pillar of national economic planning, with its contribution to non-oil GDP now tracked as a key growth indicator.

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