Report Overview

Saudi Arabia Sports Market – Industry Trends & Forecast Report, 2031

Saudi Arabia Sports Market size was estimated at USD 7.86 billion in 2024. During the forecast period between 2025 and 2031, Saudi Arabia Sports Market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.32% reaching a value of USD 15.63 billion by 2031. Prominent drivers of the market include the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, which positions sports as a key pillar in diversifying the national economy beyond oil. Since 2016, the sports sector has grown substantially supported by the establishment of over 70 new sports federations and the hosting of more than 100 international events, including securing the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The Ministry of Investment, in collaboration with various stakeholders such as the Ministry of Sports and the Public Investment Fund, is actively working to simplify entry for investors through modern legislation and structured investment roadmaps. These efforts highlight opportunities in infrastructure development (stadiums, training centers, smart facilities), sports services (marketing, sponsorship, media), technology (AI-driven performance tools, rehabilitation, digital platforms), and tourism (sport-based travel packages). Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is extending its influence globally by sponsoring international sporting events and leagues, using sports as a means of soft power and global integration. This approach, similar to strategies used by Qatar and China, aims to enhance the Kingdom’s global image and build international partnerships, even as it faces scrutiny over governance and human rights concerns.

Sports – Overview

Sports refer to physical or mental activities that involve skill, competition, and adherence to rules, often played individually or in teams for recreation, fitness, or professional purposes. They range from traditional games like football and basketball to emerging fields like e-sports. Sports promote physical health, teamwork, discipline, and social interaction, and often serve as a source of entertainment and national pride.

Saudi Arabia Sports Market

Growth Drivers

Government’s Growing Support and Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia Sports Market has witnessed transformative growth, primarily driven by strong government backing and the strategic framework of Vision 2030. This comprehensive national roadmap, introduced in 2016, aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy beyond oil, positioning sports as a critical pillar for socio-economic development. Under Vision 2030, sports are no longer viewed merely as recreational activities but as key enablers of national pride, health, tourism, and international recognition. The Kingdom has invested over $6 billion since 2021 through entities like the Public Investment Fund (PIF), leading to the successful hosting of international events such as Formula 1, boxing, tennis, and football championships. Infrastructure development has also been prioritized with the construction of modern stadiums, training complexes, and smart sports cities such as Qiddiya, aligning with global standards. Internationally, Saudi Arabia has expanded its sports influence through sponsorships and partnerships, including deals with football clubs like Atlético Madrid and Newcastle United, as well as sponsorships in global events across the U.S. and Europe. The government’s commitment extends to regulatory reforms that ease investor participation, initiatives supporting grassroots and women’s sports, and the creation of over 70 sports federations. Women’s participation in sports has surged by over 150% since Vision 2030 began, underscoring the broader agenda of inclusion and societal transformation. Furthermore, the successful bid for the 2034 FIFA World Cup and the hosting of Expo 2030 in Riyadh reflect the Kingdom’s rising global stature in the sports ecosystem. Altogether, these concerted efforts highlight how Saudi Arabia is leveraging Vision 2030 and robust government support to reshape its sports market, enhance quality of life, and secure its position as a global sports hub.

Challenges

Climatic and Cultural Limitations

Climatic and cultural limitations present significant challenges to the growth of the Saudi Arabia Sports Market. The Kingdom's extreme heat, particularly during summer months, restricts outdoor sports activities and reduces year-round participation. Additionally, traditional cultural norms have historically limited the involvement of certain demographics, particularly women, though this is gradually changing under Vision 2030. Despite recent reforms, overcoming deep-rooted societal expectations and adapting infrastructure to climate conditions remain key hurdles. These factors continue to influence participation rates, accessibility, and the pace of sports market expansion in the Kingdom.

Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on Saudi Arabia Sports Market

Escalating geopolitical tensions can significantly impact Saudi Arabia Sports Market. Heightened regional conflicts or strained international relations may deter global sports bodies, sponsors, and athletes from engaging with events hosted in the Kingdom. Travel restrictions and security concerns can lead to reduced international participation and audience turnout. Additionally, foreign direct investments and sponsorships may decline, limiting funding for infrastructure and event management. Diplomatic rifts could also influence the Kingdom’s bids to host global sporting events. As Saudi Arabia seeks to position itself as a major sports hub under Vision 2030, maintaining geopolitical stability is crucial to sustaining market growth and credibility.

Saudi Arabia Sports Market

Segmental Coverage

Saudi Arabia Sports Market – By Sports Type

Based on sports type, Saudi Arabia Sports Market is divided into Football, Basketball, Cricket, Tennis, Motorsports, E-sports, and other sports types segments. The football segment holds the largest share of Saudi Arabia Sports Market by sports type, driven by strategic investments, international collaborations, and strong government backing under Saudi Vision 2030. Football has emerged as the Kingdom’s flagship sport, not only enhancing national pride but also contributing significantly to economic diversification, youth engagement, and tourism growth. The successful bid to host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, alongside events such as the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup and the Spanish Super Cup, underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing global football footprint. Major infrastructural developments, including new stadiums and renovated venues, are designed to accommodate the rising popularity of the sport. Additionally, the Saudi Pro League has gained international recognition by attracting top-tier global players, boosting local interest and international viewership. The rapid rise of women’s football, marked by national team achievements and league formations, reflects the Kingdom’s inclusive approach to sports development. Football also fuels job creation and foreign investment through large-scale events and expanded hospitality services. Collectively, these initiatives firmly establish football as the dominant and most influential segment within the Saudi Arabia Sports Market.

Saudi Arabia Sports Market – By Revenue Stream

By revenue stream, Saudi Arabia Sports Market is divided into Sponsorship, Media Rights, Merchandizing, Ticketing, Sports Tourism, and Government Funding segments. The sponsorship segment holds the highest share in Saudi Arabia Sports Market by revenue stream. It is driven by the Kingdom’s strategic initiatives under Vision 2030 to position sports as a key economic pillar. Saudi Arabia has rapidly become a global hub for sports sponsorship, with the Roshn Saudi League ranking as the third most lucrative football league worldwide in sponsorship revenues. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) alone accounts for 346 sponsorships across various sports including football, tennis, esports, boxing, and golf, contributing significantly to the over 900 sponsorship deals identified in 2024. Major international events such as the FIFA Club World Cup, Riyadh Season, and the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2034, alongside investments in stadium infrastructure and sports academies, have created vast opportunities for sponsorship. These efforts not only enhance revenue streams but also serve as instruments of global influence and soft power. With a strong emphasis on attracting foreign investment and establishing regulatory frameworks, the Kingdom continues to expand its sports sponsorship landscape, making it the dominant force within the market’s revenue structure.

Saudi Arabia Sports Market – By Infrastructure

On the basis of infrastructure, Saudi Arabia Sports Market is segmented into Stadiums & Arenas, Fitness & Training Centers, Sports Academies, and E-sports Facilities.

Competitive Landscape

Major players operating in Saudi Arabia Sports Market include Saudi Sports Company, Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Al-Hilal FC, Al-Nassr FC, Ministry of Sports (Saudi Arabia), Public Investment Fund (PIF), Roshn Saudi League, Saudi Esports Federation, NEOM, Aramco, STC (Saudi Telecom Company), MBC Group, Riyadh Season Organizing Committee, Diriyah Season, Qiddiya Investment Company, and Red Sea Global. To further enhance their market share, these companies employ various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, license agreements, and new product launches.

Recent Developments

• In May 2025 - Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, through its subsidiary SURJ Sports Investment, partnered with Kings League to launch Kings League MENA—a digital-first, seven-a-side football league tailored for the Middle East and North Africa. Set to debut later in 2025, the league aims to merge football, digital content, and youth culture to reshape regional sports entertainment.

• In February 2025 - Saudi Arabia’s SURJ Sports Investment, the sports arm of the Public Investment Fund, announced its USD 1 billion investment in DAZN, the sports streaming platform owned by Sir Leonard Blavatnik. The deal includes a minority stake in DAZN and the formation of a Middle East-focused broadcasting joint venture.

• In 2024 - Saudi Arabia announced its plans set to build a USD 3.3 billion sports complex through a partnership between Alpha Jossor Investments and UK-based Blockchain Sports Ecosystem. The project, aligned with Vision 2030, will feature a state-of-the-art football academy, smart sports technologies, and sustainable real estate. With over 1,200 global tech experts and support from renowned footballers, the initiative aims to boost tourism, foreign investments, and sports participation. It also includes a digital athlete ID platform to enhance global scouting, further solidifying Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and economic diversification in the sports sector.

Scope of the Report

By Sports Type

• Football

• Basketball

• Cricket

• Tennis

• Motorsports

• E-sports

• Others

By Revenue Stream

• Sponsorship

• Media Rights

• Merchandising

• Ticketing

• Sports Tourism

• Government Funding

By Infrastructure

• Stadiums & Arenas

• Fitness & Training Centers

• Sports Academies

• E-sports Facilities

1. Research Framework
   1. Research Objective
   2. Product Overview
   3. Market Segmentation
2. Executive Summary
3. Saudi Arabia Sports Market Insights
   1. Industry Value Chain Analysis
   2. DROC Analysis
      1. Growth Drivers
         1. Government Support & Vision 2030
         2. Rising Health Consciousness & Youth Engagement
         3. Hosting of International Sporting Events
      2. Restraints
         1. Climatic & Cultural Limitations
         2. Limited Grassroots Sports Development
      3. Opportunities
         1. Growth in Sports Tourism & E-sports
         2. Increasing Public-Private Partnerships and Foreign Investment
      4. Challenges
         1. Ensuring Inclusivity and Sustainable Growth
         2. Building Local Talent and Fan Engagement
   3. Technological Advancements/Recent Developments
   4. Regulatory Framework
   5. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
      1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
      2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
      3. Threat of New Entrants
      4. Threat of Substitutes
      5. Intensity of Rivalry
4. Saudi Arabia Sports Market: Marketing Strategies
5. Saudi Arabia Sports Market: Pricing Analysis
6. Saudi Arabia Sports Market Overview
   1. Market Size & Forecast, 2019–2031
      1. By Value (USD Billion)
   2. Market Share & Forecast
      1. By Sports Type
         1. Football
         2. Basketball
         3. Cricket
         4. Tennis
         5. Motorsports
         6. E-sports
         7. Others
      2. By Revenue Stream
         1. Sponsorship
         2. Media Rights
         3. Merchandising
         4. Ticketing
         5. Sports Tourism
         6. Government Funding
      3. By Infrastructure
         1. Stadiums & Arenas
         2. Fitness & Training Centers
         3. Sports Academies
         4. E-sports Facilities
7. Competitive Landscape
   1. List of Key Players and Their End Users
   2. Saudi Arabia Sports Company Market Share Analysis, 2024
   3. Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating Parameters
   4. Key Strategic Developments (Mergers, Acquisitions, Partnerships)
8. Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on Saudi Arabia Sports Market
9. Company Profiles (Company Overview, Financial Matrix, Competitive landscape, Key Personnel, Key Competitors, Contact Address, Strategic Outlook, SWOT Analysis)
   1. Saudi Sports Company
   2. Saudi Arabian Football Federation
   3. Al-Hilal FC
   4. Al-Nassr FC
   5. Ministry of Sports (Saudi Arabia)
   6. Public Investment Fund (PIF)
   7. Roshn Saudi League
   8. Saudi Esports Federation
   9. NEOM
   10. Aramco
   11. STC (Saudi Telecom Company)
   12. MBC Group
   13. Riyadh Season Organizing Committee
   14. Diriyah Season
   15. Qiddiya Investment Company
   16. Red Sea Global
   17. Other Prominent Players
10. Key Strategic Recommendations
11. Research Methodology
    1. Qualitative Research
       1. Primary & Secondary Research
    2. Quantitative Research
    3. Market Breakdown & Data Triangulation
       1. Secondary Research
       2. Primary Research
    4. Breakdown of Primary Research Respondents
    5. Assumption & Limitation

*Financial information of non-listed companies will be provided as per availability

**The segmentation and the companies are subjected to modifications based on in-depth secondary for the final deliverable

List of Figures

Figure 1   Saudi Arabia Sports Market Segmentation

Figure 2   Saudi Arabia Sports Market Value Chain Analysis

Figure 3   Company Market Share Analysis, 2024

Figure 4   Saudi Arabia Sports Market Size, By Value (USD Billion), 2019-h2031

Figure 5   Saudi Arabia Sports Market Share, By Sports Type, By Value (USD Billion) 2019–2031

Figure 6   Saudi Arabia Sports Market Share, By Revenue Stream, By Value (USD Billion) 2019–2031

Figure 7   Saudi Arabia Sports Market Share, By Infrastructure, By Value (USD Billion) 2019–2031

List of Tables

Table 1      Saudi Arabia Sports Market Share, By Sports Type, By Value (USD Billion) 2019–2031

Table 2      Saudi Arabia Sports Market Share, By Revenue Stream, By Value (USD Billion) 2019–2031

Table 3      Saudi Arabia Sports Market Share, By Infrastructure, By Value (USD Billion) 2019–2031

Table 4      Saudi Sports Company: Company Overview

Table 5      Saudi Sports Company Financial Overview

Table 6      Saudi Arabian Football Federation Company Overview

Table 7      Saudi Arabian Football Federation Financial Overview

Table 8      Al-Hilal FC Company Overview

Table 9      Al-Hilal FC Financial Overview

Table 10    Al-Nassr FC Company Overview

Table 11    Al-Nassr FC Financial Overview

Table 12    Ministry of Sports (Saudi Arabia) Company Overview

Table 13    Ministry of Sports (Saudi Arabia) Financial Overview

Table 14    Public Investment Fund (PIF) Company Overview

Table 15    Public Investment Fund (PIF) Financial Overview

Table 16    Roshn Saudi League Company Overview

Table 17    Roshn Saudi League Financial Overview

Table 18    Saudi Esports Federation Company Overview

Table 19    Saudi Esports Federation Financial Overview

Table 20    NEOM Company Overview

Table 21    NEOM Financial Overview

Table 22    Aramco Company Overview

Table 23    Aramco Financial Overview

Table 24    STC (Saudi Telecom Company) Company Overview

Table 25    STC (Saudi Telecom Company) Financial Overview

Table 26    MBC Group Company Overview

Table 27    MBC Group Financial Overview

Table 28    Riyadh Season Organizing Committee Company Overview

Table 29    Riyadh Season Organizing Committee Financial Overview

Table 30    Diriyah Season Company Overview

Table 31    Diriyah Season Financial Overview

Table 32    Qiddiya Investment Company: Company Overview

Table 33    Qiddiya Investment Company Financial Overview

Table 34    Red Sea Global Company Overview

Table 35    Red Sea Global Financial Overview