Saudi Arabia submits bid to host Asian Games in 2030

The stands are seen empty after the decision of the Saudi Ministry of Sports, following an outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), at King Saud University Stadium, in Riyadh (photo credit: Reuters)

• The SAOC submitted a letter of intent to the Olympic Council of Asia to host the games
• It said the Saudi capital is ready to a “unique, cultural and technological experience”

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has submitted an official bid to host the 21st Asian Games in 2030 in Riyadh.

The Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee (SAOC) said on Thursday it had submitted a letter of intent to the Olympic Council of Asia to host the games.  

In the letter, the SAOC illustrated the Kingdom’s ambitious vision to organize an "unprecedented version" of the sporting event.  

It said the Saudi capital is ready to a “unique, cultural and technological experience.”

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, president of the SAOC, said: “Bidding for the Asian Games in 2030 is part of our new SAOC strategy and is fully aligned with the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

“I have the full trust that the Riyadh 2030 bid will be a very powerful demonstration of our vision that aims to bring Asia together to deliver the best Asian Games ever.” 

More than 10,000 athletes from 45 countries participate at the the event to compete in 40 games.