Saudi Sports Sector Set to Top $22 Billion by 2030

Saudi Arabia's sports sector is on track to surpass $22 billion (around SAR 82.5 billion) by 2030, driven by a wave of large-scale venues and hosting plans across the Kingdom. The projection covers the overall sports sector, which is currently estimated at roughly SAR 32 billion.

The anticipated growth is supported by flagship projects reshaping the country's sporting map. In the capital, Riyadh's Sports Boulevard is planned to stretch approximately 135 km across the city and incorporate more than 50 sports facilities, offering residents new spaces for exercise, recreation, and community activity.

Hosting ambitions are also a major driver. Saudi Arabia's plan for the 2034 FIFA World Cup includes 15 stadiums across five cities — 11 newly built venues and four upgraded existing ones. Among the Kingdom's established arenas, King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah seats more than 62,000 spectators, while the planned Aramco Stadium in Al-Khobar is designed for approximately 47,000 seats.

Why it matters

For residents and expats, the expansion signals more accessible places to play and watch sport, alongside new jobs and business opportunities tied to construction, events, and services. The sector's momentum aligns with broader efforts under Saudi Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and promote an active lifestyle.

At this stage, the figures reflect a market-size projection for the sector as a whole rather than a separate, verified sports-infrastructure-only estimate. No official fees, application steps, or service channels are associated with the projection.

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