‘World Cup dream is becoming reality,’ says Hammad Albalawi, head of Saudi Arabian Football Federation FIFA World Cup 2034 bid unit

‘World Cup dream is becoming reality,’ says Hammad Albalawi, head of Saudi Arabian Football Federation FIFA World Cup 2034 bid unit
Hammad Albalawi, head of the Saudi Arabian Football Association’s FIFA World Cup 2034 bid, delivers a speech. (Supplied)
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Updated 22 September 2024
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‘World Cup dream is becoming reality,’ says Hammad Albalawi, head of Saudi Arabian Football Federation FIFA World Cup 2034 bid unit

‘World Cup dream is becoming reality,’ says Hammad Albalawi, head of Saudi Arabian Football Federation FIFA World Cup 2034 bid unit

1. With 10 years to go, how would you gauge the progress the Kingdom is making toward the FIFA World Cup 2034?

Our dream of hosting the world in 2034 is becoming a reality thanks to the steadfast support from our leadership, our love for the game, our country’s ongoing transformation, and the energy of our young people. Saudi Arabia is already making great strides, driven by our passion for football, and we are incredibly proud of the proposals we’ve put forward to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 in our official bid book to FIFA.

Yet the demand for football in Saudi Arabia is apparent even today, which is why we continue to invest in our Saudi Pro League teams and enable grassroots football with opportunities like never before. We are already well underway with the development of incredible new infrastructure and stadiums that we will be proud to call our football homes.

If we are awarded the honor to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, we are ready to live up to our ambition for the people of Saudi Arabia and the global football community.
2. What were the biggest challenges in making sure Saudi had the best bid?

Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest and most exciting growth stories in world football. It was key that this story — our story — shone through in our bid.

We knew we had to put together a tournament footprint of stadiums, training sites, host cities, accommodation and transportation plans that cater for the needs of the players and fans that would come to Saudi Arabia from all over the world. We had to do justice to our ambition and showcase the best of our ability and our deep-rooted love for hospitality.

3. Did the rise of the Saudi Pro League with Ronaldo and other international superstars play a part in making the bid successful?

We are still in the bidding phase, and it’s important to remember that. We look forward to working with our partners across football in the coming months in the lead-up to the December award announcement.

Our bid is built on the foundations of Saudi’s historic love for football and is a natural step in our journey toward growing the game nationwide. Bringing international football stars to our own professional league catalyzes the development and the success of our clubs. Our Saudi players and fans get to rub shoulders with the world’s best. It brings a global energy and excitement to the millions of fans in Saudi Arabia, and it helps to showcase to the world our country’s true passion for the beautiful game. It’s this passion that is the driving force behind the bid — a passion that has seen our fans follow our national team around the world, including to six different FIFA World Cup tournaments.

4. Going forward, can we expect the Saudi 2034 bid to continue having big-name ambassadors such as Ronaldo, etc.?

We already have millions of bid ambassadors — the people of Saudi Arabia. We are country of football fans, and you can see our love of the game shining through on our journey to bid for the FIFA World Cup. Supporting them are those who have come to Saudi Arabia who can share their positive experiences and reflect on our passion for football, and we invite the world to come to Saudi Arabia to learn more about the Kingdom and experience the remarkable journey we are on.

5. How will Vision 2030 play a part in the 2034 World Cup bid?

Vision 2030 is the driving force behind the bid and is delivering the transformation that makes Saudi Arabia ready to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 thanks to the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud. The ambitions of Vision 2030 to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and improve quality of life are powering the growth of our sports sector, which has already seen Saudi Arabia host more than 100 international major sporting events, attracting audiences close to three million sports fans.

The giant steps we’ve made in developing our sports sector are thanks to Vision 2030. The Vision provides a clear path forward and hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034 would be the culmination of these efforts, with the entire Kingdom coming together to drive forward our sport’s industry and our wider national infrastructure projects ahead of 2034.

6. When the new stadium for 2034 WC are completed, Saudi will have some of the best venues in the world. How did these unique designs come about?

These stadiums will meet the growing football demand across the Kingdom. We are working with our partners to ensure that they will be used for a variety of purposes — from sports and tourism, to entertainment and live events. Come 2034, yes, they will be used as venues for the World Cup, but we are ensuring all venues have legacy plans in place to ensure high levels of utilization post-tournament.

Each venue has its own unique story, all rooted in the past and the future of the Kingdom. A few examples: The King Salman International Stadium, anchored in King Abdulaziz Park’s masterplan, will contribute to Riyadh’s ongoing transformation and blend into its surroundings, with terrain and natural habitat forming part of the roof; the Aramco Stadium, located in the north of Al-Khobar on the shore of the Arabian Gulf, celebrates the sea’s dynamic nature; and the design of Jeddah Central Stadium echoes the architecture of the historic Al-Balad district.

These are just some examples of the creative thinking behind the design approaches, and we are excited to see these stadia come to life.

7. Beyond the architecture, what can we expect these futuristic stadia to offer the fans in terms of experiences?

As a massive football fan, having seen the best matches whether abroad or on television, I’m very excited about the experiences that these stadia will bring to Saudi Arabia. We recognize there is a long way to go and that development plans for some of the stadiums are still underway, but what I can say is that an immersive and seamless experience for fans is at the heart of our approach. We are committed to delivering an experience that is fitting of our love for the game — this is what drives us.

We will be aiming to host the most digitally connected FIFA World Cup of all time, with our stadiums at the heart of this connected fan experience. The same would be true of our unique FIFA Fan Festival sites; that would be the next best thing to actually being inside the stadium.

We aspire to host the first ever 48-team tournament in a single host country, that allows fans to experience a compact, festival-like atmosphere that brings together more teams and more fans meeting in one place than ever before.

8. What are you hoping will be the tournament’s long-term impact and legacy, both globally and within the Kingdom?

We have a clear vision for our bid: “Growing. Together.”  

This is our bid slogan, and it perfectly encapsulates our vision for the tournament — to develop football for our nation and our people, and for the global football community. We want to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 to help support the growth of the game across the world, and ensure football and its values can be enjoyed by all.

We are focused on ensuring our investments drive the growth of football in the Kingdom to meet the demand. We already have some of the best fans in the world and some of the best players in the world playing week-in and week-out in the SPL. When we have some of the world’s best stadiums and football infrastructure we will be the role model of a top football nation.

Our infrastructure plans will deliver both on and off the pitch. We want to enable strong performances from our national and club teams, but we will also provide opportunities for our young footballers to develop their skills in top-class facilities and celebrate their love for the game. We are focused on our next generation of star players for Saudi Arabia to play and compete on the world stage.

Under Vision 2030, Saudi is making significant investments in infrastructure and services, many of which we have included in our bid proposition. Stadiums, transport, and more, are already being built to keep up with booming demand, and we can use these components as part of our tournament footprint. Saudi Arabia’s approach aims to deliver a lasting legacy of positive change through the delivery of a responsible and respectful tournament.
9. How can Saudis and football fans contribute to this national effort to make the 2034 World Cup the best ever?

We are ready and excited to host — and we feel our bid is very strong. One of the most compelling parts of our bid is just how deep our love for football runs in our society — 80 percent of all Saudis are football fans. We want this genuine love for the game to shine through in our bid.

In the lead-up to host selection, we’re encouraging fans to sign up for our “Join the Squad” initiative, which allows them to showcase their pride for the bid and take part in upcoming activities.

You can learn more about Join the Squad here.
10. What is being done at grass roots and at the clubs to ensure that Saudi has the best possible generation of players ready for 2034?

The growth of grassroots programs is at the heart of our football development plans. They are also one of the central components of the wider Saudi Vision 2030 ambition of working to improving quality of life across the Kingdom.

We’re focusing our efforts at the entry points of football, and we’re already seeing some incredible results. We now have more than 300,000 players in the schools’ leagues (boys and girls), and 64 annual youth competitions — up from just ten last year. Regional training centers are booming as well — we have 23 now, up from nine in 2021.

Kids want to play football, and the entire football sector is working hard to ensure they can by providing more opportunities and improving accessibility. Children are seeing their heroes on the pitch here in the Kingdom — Ronaldo, Neymar, Benzema — and are eager to get involved. It’s our collective responsibility to make sure football is as accessible as possible.
11. Finally. With 10 years to go, should the aim be that Saudi Arabia challenges for the World Cup trophy in 2034?

A lot can happen in ten years. Today, we are focused on growing all aspects of the game we love, including the continued development of our national team. Right now, our national team is working toward its seventh FIFA World Cup qualification, which, if achieved, would make it the Falcons’ seventh appearance out of the past nine editions of the FIFA World Cup. Going for the World Cup trophy in any edition of the tournament is the dream of our nation.


Growing global halal industry requires innovation, say Makkah forum participants 

Growing global halal industry requires innovation, say Makkah forum participants 
Updated 25 sec ago
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Growing global halal industry requires innovation, say Makkah forum participants 

Growing global halal industry requires innovation, say Makkah forum participants 
  • Halal market being recognized globally, says food company executive
  • Standardized certification key to consumer trust, maintain standards

MAKKAH: Participants at the Makkah Halal Forum have been exchanging ideas, including on new technologies, to boost the global industry and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in this sector. 

The event, which opened on Feb. 25 and ends on Thursday, is being held at the Makkah Chamber of Commerce Exhibition and Events Center under the theme “Sustainable Development Through Halal.” 

The event brings together leaders in the sector from across the world to discuss innovations, best practices, and sustainability.

The event focuses on addressing challenges and shaping the future of the halal industry, with companies from 150 countries forming strategic partnerships to expand halal trade and support emerging businesses. 

The global halal market is projected to reach $7.7 trillion by 2025, with the halal food and beverage sector contributing $3.3 trillion.

By 2034, the global halal market is expected to grow to $9.45 trillion, at an annual rate of 12.42 percent, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Zulfiqar Hamadani, CEO of Tanmiah Food Co., emphasized the rapid growth of the halal food industry in global markets, citing increasing consumer awareness and demand for sustainable, healthier food options. 

Speaking on the evolving perception of halal products, Hamadani highlighted key challenges and opportunities for the industry.

“Halal is the fastest-growing protein type in the global market,” he said.

“There are challenges to overcome, but consumers in the West and non-Muslim-majority countries are already recognizing that halal is more sustainable and healthier.”

One of the primary reasons, Hamadani explained, is the halal slaughtering process, which ensures the complete drainage of blood from the animal, reducing the risk of diseases, particularly zoonotic ones. 

However, he stressed that halal is more than just the method of slaughter.

Hamadani called for the strengthening of the certification process to enhance consumer trust and ensure consistency in halal standards worldwide.

“Certification is the first thing we need to achieve,” he said, urging industry leaders to work on standardizing regulations.

He also emphasized the importance of research and development to modernize halal food offerings. Traditionally, halal has been associated primarily with slaughtering methods.

But he pointed out that it extends to every aspect of food production — from farm to fork. This includes Shariah-compliant financing, ethical animal treatment, and sustainable agricultural practices. 

Igor Marti, vice president of halal markets at BRF Foods, shared his insights on how the halal industry can adapt to evolving consumer demands, stating: “In today’s fast-paced world, consumers seek convenience without compromising on health and transparency.”

“Ninety-eight percent of all the energy we have consumed at BRF Foods came from renewable sources,” Marti added.

Irwandi Jaswir, deputy dean of the International Institute for Halal Research and Training at the International Islamic University Malaysia, underscored the critical role of innovation and research in unifying halal standards, promoting sustainability, and ensuring ethical compliance in the global market.

Speaking at the first panel session, “Industry Innovation for Sustainable Halal Food and Beverage,” Irwandi emphasized the need for collaborative efforts and cutting-edge solutions to address the evolving challenges in the halal food and beverage sector. 

Yousef Khalawi, secretary-general of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development, highlighted the need for robust control and accreditation mechanisms to ensure the safety and quality of halal products.

He emphasized that while everything is considered halal in Muslim countries by default, the complexities of modern life — particularly the importation of food products — require thorough verification of ingredients such as flavors, colors, and stabilizers used in food manufacturing.

During the second panel discussion, Dino Selimovic, adviser to the minister of foreign affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasized Europe’s cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity and highlighted the nation’s role in introducing the halal lifestyle to the region. 

He noted the growing presence of halal-certified products and services, stating that the country now has over 10,000.

Iqbal Sacranie, chairman of the Muslim Trade Forum UK, highlighted the rapid growth of the halal economy in the UK and across Europe.

Despite Muslims comprising only about 6 percent of the UK population — around 4 to 5 million people — Sacranie noted that the expansion is also driven by ethical considerations, with many non-Muslims increasingly engaging in sectors such as Shariah-compliant finance.


Boulevard City welcomes latest entertainment and esports hub

Boulevard City welcomes latest entertainment and esports hub
Updated 52 min 27 sec ago
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Boulevard City welcomes latest entertainment and esports hub

Boulevard City welcomes latest entertainment and esports hub

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority has opened a new esports and entertainment destination in the Kingdom’s capital.

Located at Studio Zone in Boulevard City, Twisted Labs is a collaboration with Twisted Minds, an esports brand in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Abdulaziz Al-Rasheed, co-owner of Twisted Minds, told Arab News: “I’m thrilled to be part of this venture. Gaming has been my passion since 2014, and seeing our brand reach a global level is incredible. It’s exciting to be associated with the first publicly opened esports HQ in the world.”

The hub was designed with entertainment and gaming enthusiasts in mind and was opened this week by Ahmed Arafa, executive vice president of the authority.

The venue offers a wide array of innovative entertainment and gaming options, including Twisted Hall, an interactive Champion Test zone, and Twisted Shop, which features exclusive products for gaming and challenge fans.

Visitors can also enjoy the Gaming Center, take a spin around a racing course called Twisted Track, visit the Watch Party area for live events, and participate in the Escape Room, which promises thrilling puzzles for adventure seekers.

“Gamers and enthusiasts are welcome here,” Al-Rasheed added. “Entrance to the Gaming Center is free, and while some experiences require a fee, they are reasonably priced.”

For those looking to unwind, Twisted Cafe is the spot for a relaxing lounge experience.

Situated next to Bakr Al-Sheddi Theater, the venue is the latest step in expanding the presence of esports in the Kingdom, as well as diversifying Riyadh’s entertainment landscape and cementing Boulevard City as a premier hub for fun.

Al-Rasheed also emphasized the importance of support from Saudi authorities in the gaming industry: “The esports industry is still evolving, and any assistance we can get from the Saudi government is crucial. Saudi Arabia aims to become a global hub for esports, and we’re proud to be the first club supported by the General Entertainment Authority.”

Speaking about what is in store for gamers, he said: “We aim to introduce new technology to players, including mind-controlled games that track focus levels. It’s a unique experience that we’re excited to share with the public.”


New Islamic fund to aid vulnerable communities globally

New Islamic fund to aid vulnerable communities globally
Updated 26 February 2025
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New Islamic fund to aid vulnerable communities globally

New Islamic fund to aid vulnerable communities globally

Riyadh: The International Organization for Migration launched the Islamic Philanthropy Fund, a new initiative to support the world’s most vulnerable communities, at the UN office in Riyadh.

Amid escalating crises and rising displacement, the organization is developing innovative ways to deliver life-saving aid to more than 75 million people uprooted by conflict, disasters and insecurity.

The event was attended by high-level representatives from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Islamic Development Bank, diplomats, UN agencies, private sector stakeholders and leading Islamic philanthropy organizations.

Amy Pope, the organization’s director general, said: “With today’s complex crises displacing record numbers and causing immense suffering, it is critical to harness Islamic charity to help alleviate hardship, empower communities and protect human dignity.”

She added that the fund serves as a “trusted platform for Muslims worldwide to maximize their contributions’ impact.”

In its inaugural year, the fund is prioritizing Sudan’s emergency response, delivering cash to displaced families, those stranded at borders and communities in urgent need.

A newly established advisory body ensures transparency, integrity and effective impact.

Othman Belbeisi, IOM’s regional director for Middle East and North Africa. (Supplied)

During the launch, the IOM signed memorandums of understanding with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the International Islamic Fiqh Academy to enhance the fund’s efficiency and reach.

Othman Belbeisi, IOM regional director for the Middle East and North Africa, told Arab News: “The number of internally displaced persons worldwide now exceeds 79 million — double the figure from five years ago.”

Belbeisi highlighted the need to diversify funding sources to address growing humanitarian challenges.

“Islamic finance is a crucial resource for supporting vulnerable communities and addressing urgent needs,” he said, adding that it will bolster the organization’s projects across multiple countries by providing sustainable funding.

Tariq Cheema, a member of the fund’s advisory board, told Arab News: “We are in a rapidly evolving world where shifting power dynamics make innovative solutions essential to mitigating human suffering.”

Cheema said that the fund not only empowers local organizations delivering critical aid, but also helps shape future generations.

By investing in skills development, creating job opportunities and supporting diverse work models, the fund can enhance efficiency, reduce costs and strengthen organizations for long-term impact, he added.


KSA to distribute 1.2m Qur’an copies in 45 countries

KSA to distribute 1.2m Qur’an copies in 45 countries
Updated 26 February 2025
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KSA to distribute 1.2m Qur’an copies in 45 countries

KSA to distribute 1.2m Qur’an copies in 45 countries

RIYADH: King Salman has approved the distribution of 1.2 million copies of the Holy Qur’an and its interpretations in 79 languages to Islamic and cultural centers, as well as religious attache offices at Saudi embassies abroad.

The initiative, part of King Salman’s program for gifting Qur’an copies, is implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs during Ramadan and covers 45 countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh expressed gratitude to the king and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continuous care and support for Muslims worldwide.

He described the printed copies as among the finest and most meticulously produced globally, emphasizing that the program reflects the leadership’s dedication to disseminating the Qur’an and enabling Muslims worldwide to benefit from it, especially during Ramadan.

Al-Asheikh also highlighted the leadership’s ongoing support for the ministry in serving Islam and Muslims while promoting tolerance and coexistence as core Islamic values.

He noted that all preparations for shipping the copies to beneficiary countries have been completed in line with the ministry’s approved strategy for this year.

The distribution will be coordinated with religious attache offices, ministry-affiliated centers, and various Islamic councils and organizations to ensure timely delivery throughout Ramadan.


Saudi authorities seize drugs in two smuggling attempts

Saudi authorities seize drugs in two smuggling attempts
Updated 26 February 2025
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Saudi authorities seize drugs in two smuggling attempts

Saudi authorities seize drugs in two smuggling attempts
  • ZATCA reiterated its commitment to tightening customs controls on imports and exports

RIYADH: Saudi authorities thwarted two attempts to smuggle drugs at major international airports, seizing nearly 2 kg of hashish and more than 11,000 illegal pills, officials said on Tuesday.

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority said it confiscated 1.9 kg of hashish at King Fahd International Airport and 11,096 prohibited pills at King Khalid International Airport.

The authority, in coordination with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, arrested the intended recipient of the shipments.

ZATCA reiterated its commitment to tightening customs controls on imports and exports, vowing to remain vigilant in preventing smuggling and safeguarding the public.

The agency urged the public to report smuggling attempts by calling 1910, emailing 1910@zatca.gov.sa, or using the international number +9661910. It said all reports are treated confidentially, and informants may receive a financial reward if their tip leads to a confirmed offence.