Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, has confirmed that alcohol will not be allowed at the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The announcement comes as the country gears up to host the prestigious tournament, and it marks a strict stance on alcohol consumption that will affect fans, players, and visitors alike.
The decision to ban alcohol is rooted in Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious values. Prince Khalid emphasized that the country is a “dry nation,” and the ban on alcohol is consistent with its long-standing policies2. “Plenty of fun can be had without alcohol – it’s not 100% necessary,” he said. “If you want to drink after you leave, you’re welcome to, but at the moment we don’t have alcohol.”
This move is a departure from the approach taken by Qatar during the 2022 World Cup, where alcohol was available in designated fan zones and select hotels. Saudi Arabia’s decision to enforce a complete ban on alcohol sales and consumption during the tournament is expected to draw attention and possibly controversy, especially from FIFA’s sponsors and fans accustomed to having access to alcoholic beverages during major sporting events.
The ambassador’s comments also addressed concerns about the impact of the alcohol ban on the overall fan experience. Everyone has their own culture,” Prince Khalid said. “We’re happy to accommodate people within the boundaries of our culture but we don’t want to change our culture for someone else.” He added that the tournament would be welcoming to all visitors, despite the strict regulations.
Human rights groups have raised concerns about the prospect of a World Cup in Saudi Arabia, citing issues such as migrant worker exploitation and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Prince Khalid assured that the country would welcome everyone and that the event would be inclusive. “It is not a Saudi event, it is a world event,” he said. “And to a large extent, we will welcome everyone who wants to come.”
The decision to ban alcohol at the 2034 World Cup is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to enhance its international image and promote its cultural values. The country has been investing heavily in sports, including football, boxing, and Formula 1, as part of its efforts to improve its global standing2. The World Cup presents an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase its progress and commitment to hosting a successful and memorable tournament.
Despite the strict alcohol policy, the ambassador emphasized that fans would still have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the tournament and the vibrant atmosphere of Saudi Arabia. “We will ensure that everyone has a great time,” he said. There are many ways to enjoy the World Cup without alcohol, and we are confident that fans will have an unforgettable experience.”
The announcement has sparked discussions among football fans and stakeholders about the implications of the alcohol ban and its potential impact on the tournament’s atmosphere. Some have expressed concerns about the lack of alcohol availability, while others have praised Saudi Arabia’s commitment to its cultural values.
As the countdown to the 2034 World Cup begins, all eyes will be on Saudi Arabia as it prepares to host one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events. The country’s strict stance on alcohol and its efforts to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for fans will be closely watched and debated in the coming years.
In conclusion, the confirmation of the alcohol ban for the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia highlights the country’s commitment to its cultural values and its determination to host a successful tournament. While the decision may draw criticism and raise concerns, it also presents an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase its progress and promote its vision for the future. As the world eagerly awaits the tournament, the focus will be on ensuring that fans have a memorable and enjoyable experience, even without alcohol.
