🚫🍻 No Alcohol at 2034 World Cup, Confirms Saudi Ambassador 🇸🇦⚽

Fans attending the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia should not expect to find alcohol anywhere during the tournament, including hotels, according to Saudi ambassador Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud.

💬 “At the moment, we don’t allow alcohol,” Prince Khalid told LBC. “Plenty of fun can be had without it—it’s not 100% necessary. If you want to drink after you leave, you’re welcome to, but at the moment, we don’t have alcohol.”

🏨 No Alcohol in Hotels Either

When asked whether fans would be able to drink in hotel bars—as they could during the 2022 Qatar World Cup—Prince Khalid was clear:

❌ “No, there is no alcohol at all. Rather like our weather, it’s a dry country.”

🕌 He emphasized that Saudi Arabia will not change its cultural norms for the event:

“Everyone has their own culture. We’re happy to accommodate people within the boundaries of our culture, but we don’t want to change our culture for someone else.”

🌍 Who Will Be Welcome?

Saudi Arabia’s stance on human rights and inclusivity has drawn global attention. The country criminalizes same-sex relationships and does not recognize transgender identities, but Prince Khalid insisted that all fans will be welcome.

🤝 “It is not a Saudi event, it is a world event. We will welcome everyone who wants to come.”

⚖️ Controversy Over Sportswashing

Saudi Arabia has faced criticism for ‘sportswashing’—using major sporting events to improve its global reputation despite concerns over human rights and environmental policies.

⚠️ Amnesty International has warned that hosting the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia could lead to severe and widespread human rights violations.

🏆 The Bigger Picture

With the 2034 World Cup fast approaching, Saudi Arabia’s strict policies on alcohol and human rights will remain key talking points. However, the country is committed to delivering a unique tournament—one that stays true to its culture while welcoming football fans from around the globe. 🌎⚽🔥