Saudi Arabia places great importance on sports, including enhancing sports at various levels. That includes having a national plan, Vision 2030, with ambitious goals to elevate sports in the kingdom.
Here are five planks in Saudi Arabia plan.
Enhancing Sports Infrastructure: Efforts have intensified to improve sports infrastructure. Investments have been made in the construction and development of stadiums and sports centers across the country, and high-level sports facilities have also been developed to host major sporting events and international tournaments.
Empowering Women’s Sports: Significant measures have been taken to enable women to engage in sports with equal opportunities to what is available to men. Since launching the plan in 2021, there has been a substantial increase in the number of women participating in various sports activities, not only as athletes but also as coaches and sports officials.
Organizing Major Sports Events: Saudi Arabia has become a host for international sporting levels, including world-class championships and sporting competitions. For example, the kingdom has hosted the World Golf Championship and Formula E races. Those events elevate the kingdom’s international sports standing, contribute to national tourism, and boost the local economy.
Improving Popular and Local Sports: National support for popular and local sports is also strengthened. For example, national financial support for local athletes and sports teams is now in place, and there is also specialized training to develop young talent.
Establishing International Partnerships: Saudi Arabia is keen on enhancing international cooperation by establishing strategic partnerships with international sports federations and other countries. Several agreements and MOUs (memoranda of understanding) have been signed. Collaboration enhances the kingdom’s position as a global sports leader and hub of activity.
Significant transformations have occurred since Saudi Arabia launched the plan in 2021. The sports infrastructure has been enhanced, women’s sports have been developed, major sports events have been organized, popular and local sports have been nurtured, and international cooperation/partnerships have been strengthened. Those efforts reflect the kingdom’s commitment to enhancing society’s health and physical fitness of its people, as well as elevating Saudi Arabia’s status as a global sports destination and partner.
