A mesmerizing drone-created light show and dazzling fireworks illuminated the skies above Riyadh, marking Saudi Arabia's official confirmation as the host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The event, captured by AFP, featured drones forming the iconic golden World Cup trophy, drawing cheers from the crowd in the capital city.

Although Saudi Arabia was the sole candidate for the tournament since last year, officials seized the opportunity to celebrate the formal announcement with a grand spectacle. In Riyadh, residents expressed their pride in the nation's growing prominence in global sports.

One skyscraper displayed the message 'Welcoming the World 2034' in Arabic, while the city's Tahliah Street was adorned with green, sword-emblazoned Saudi flags. Abdulrahman al-Shehri, a 44-year-old civil servant, shared his excitement with AFP, stating, 'I used to dream of attending the World Cup, but logistics were always a challenge. Now, the dream has come true with the tournament being held in Saudi Arabia.'

Khaled al-Azza, 35, echoed similar sentiments, noting that hosting the World Cup was once a distant dream. 'Now, there is nothing impossible for Saudis,' he said.

Sports play a significant role in the Vision 2030 reform agenda led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at diversifying the economy of the world's leading oil exporter. Prince Mohammed emphasized the Kingdom's commitment to contributing to the development of football globally and promoting messages of love, peace, and tolerance, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

The hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup is seen as a pivotal moment to showcase Saudi Arabia's ongoing progress. Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal highlighted the nation's openness to the world and its potential to foster global football growth. 'Working with FIFA and member associations, we aim to create new opportunities and reach new audiences,' he stated.

Saudi Arabia's official bid for the 2034 World Cup, titled 'Growing. Together.', was submitted in July 2024. The bid outlined plans to host the tournament in five cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and NEOM—across 15 state-of-the-art stadiums. The centerpiece will be the new King Salman International Stadium in Riyadh, set to host the opening match, final, and serve as the home of the Saudi National Football Team.

The compact tournament concept promises an exceptional experience for players, fans, and officials, with top-notch facilities and accommodations catering to all budgets. Travel between host cities will be efficient, with an average flight time of less than two hours. Visitors will also enjoy seamless immigration processes and the opportunity to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, savor local cuisine, and experience Saudi hospitality.

While hosting the FIFA World Cup presents unique challenges, Saudis are confident in their ability to rise to the occasion. Ziad bin Nahit, 48, noted that the task might be even more demanding than Qatar's hosting of the 2022 World Cup. 'We are not just talking about the World Cup. We are also organizing Expo 2030 and hosting other global sporting events,' he said. 'It is a matter of pride.'

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