Over the past decade, Saudi Arabia has welcomed millions of new visitors. The country is undergoing a remarkable transformation under its Vision 2030 plan, a sweeping initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and positioning the country as a global hub for tourism, culture, and entertainment. One of the most dynamic aspects of this vision is the country’s rise as a premier destination for mega events. From international expos to major sporting spectacles, The Kingdom has already proven its capacity to host world-class gatherings and is rapidly building on that momentum. The coming years will see even more mega events in Saudi Arabia, including the World Expo, major football tournaments, and even winter sports on desert mountains.
Why is the Kingdom becoming such a sought-after location for these large-scale gatherings? Beyond its strategic location bridging Asia, Africa, and Europe, Saudi Arabia boasts enormous investment in infrastructure, a rapidly expanding hospitality sector, and a clear governmental commitment to tourism growth. With billions allocated to new stadiums, transport networks, and smart city developments, the nation is putting itself squarely on the map as a top-tier destination for the biggest international events, and Saudi Arabia tourism is set to take off.
Saudi Arabia’s Upcoming Mega Events
Saudi Arabia is set to secure its spot on the global stage with a lineup of landmark gatherings that span sports, culture, and innovation. Each of these mega events reflects the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal to become a world-class destination for international spectacles. Have a look at this Saudi Arabia travel guide to the nation’s upcoming mega events as your starting point for exploring what’s ahead.
Esports World Cup 2026
Set to debut in Riyadh in 2026, the Esports World Cup will be the largest international esports competition ever staged. Building on the success of the gaming festivals Gamers8, this tournament will unite top teams and players from around the globe across multiple gaming titles. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in digital infrastructure and entertainment, ensuring the event appeals to both in-person audiences and the millions who will watch online. The competition is designed to be an annual fixture after its launch, to take place from July to August each year, making Riyadh the epicenter of global esports. Featuring large-scale arenas, live shows, and interactive experiences, Esports World Cup 2026 will showcase the Kingdom’s strategy to diversify its economy, engage younger audiences, and position itself as a hub for cutting-edge entertainment.
AFC Asian Cup 2027
Before the World Cup, Saudi Arabia will be taking the football stage earlier with the AFC Asian Cup in 2027, the first time the Kingdom will host Asia’s premier football tournament. The event will feature 24 top teams from across Asia competing for continental glory, and it’s expected to draw tens of thousands of international visitors. For Saudi Arabia, the tournament is a vital opportunity to showcase its upgraded stadiums, efficient transport networks, and expanding hospitality sector ahead of the World Cup in 2034. Matches will be staged in major cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar. The Asian Cup will demonstrate the Kingdom’s readiness to host large-scale competitions and welcome the world to its evolving sports scene. The event is scheduled from January 7 to February 5, 2027.
Asian Winter Games 2029
In the winter of 2029, Saudi Arabia will make history by hosting the Asian Winter Games in Trojena, a futuristic mountain resort within NEOM. This marks the first time the Winter Games will be held in the Middle East, a region not traditionally associated with snow sports. Trojena will feature artificial snow slopes, high-tech ski resorts, and advanced sports facilities designed to host disciplines such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey. Backed by renewable energy and sustainable design, the venue highlights Saudi Arabia’s ambition to combine innovation with environmental responsibility. The event will showcase the Kingdom’s ability to create unique sporting experiences in unexpected places, drawing athletes and spectators from across Asia. It’s a bold step that reflects the transformative goals of Vision 2030 and Saudi Arabia’s growing global profile.
Expo 2030
Saudi Arabia will take center stage when Expo 2030 comes to Riyadh from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031. Under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow”, the Expo will showcase innovation, culture, and sustainability from across the globe. More than 40 million visitors are expected to explore over 230 pavilions from more than 195 countries, interactive exhibitions, and themed zones dedicated to technology, environment, and social progress. The purpose-built Expo site will feature cutting-edge architecture and green spaces, and will be connected to the city by the Riyadh Metro for easy access. For six months, the Saudi capital will transform into a cultural crossroads, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a global host and aligning perfectly with the ambitions of Vision 2030. Expo 2030 is sure to be a shining jewel on the roster of Saudi Arabia international events.
World Cup 2034
The World Cup 2034 will mark a historic milestone as Saudi Arabia becomes the host of football’s most prestigious tournament for the very first time. Matches will be played across major cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, and NEOM, with newly built and renovated stadiums designed to meet FIFA standards. This mega event will attract millions of fans, showcasing not only thrilling football but also the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and hospitality. Massive investments in transport, accommodation, and entertainment districts will support the influx of international visitors. The tournament is also sure to serve as a springboard for the country’s sports development, inspiring new generations of athletes. As one of the biggest upcoming sports events in Saudi Arabia, the World Cup will put the Kingdom firmly in the global spotlight.
Asian Games 2034
Riyadh will play host to the Asian Games from November 29 to December 14, 2034, bringing together athletes from countries across the continent. Known as one of the largest sporting events outside the Olympics, the Games will include a wide array of disciplines such as athletics, swimming, martial arts, and team sports. New and existing facilities across the capital will be used, supported by state-of-the-art transport systems and hospitality infrastructure. For Saudi Arabia, this event represents both a sporting and cultural milestone, reinforcing the country’s role as a leader in regional athletics while showcasing its modernized capital city to the world. Set in the same year as the World Cup, the 2034 Asian Games will certainly help highlight the capabilities and benefits of hosting ambitious sports events in Saudi Arabia.
Preparation and Infrastructure
In preparation for these major events in Saudi Arabia, the country is reimagining its urban landscape to ensure it can deliver seamless, world-class experiences for visitors and participants alike. Billions of dollars are being poured into transportation, hospitality, and technology, while sustainability is becoming a cornerstone of every project. Together, these investments form the backbone of Saudi Arabia’s readiness to welcome the world.
Major Infrastructure Projects
Development is underway in Saudi Arabia on a massive scale. In Riyadh, the recently opened Riyadh Metro, a six-line system with nearly 200 kilometers of track, has transformed mobility across the capital and eased congestion during major events. Airport expansions are another priority: King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh are being upgraded to handle tens of millions of additional passengers.
On the sporting front, landmark venues like King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah and King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh are being renovated to FIFA standards, while entirely new arenas are planned in emerging destinations like Qiddiya and NEOM. Hotels are also a major focus, with international chains like Marriott and Hilton opening thousands of new rooms across the Kingdom to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Smart City Initiatives and Technology
Saudi Arabia is also integrating advanced technology into its urban planning. Futuristic projects like NEOM and Qiddiya are being built as smart cities, complete with autonomous vehicles, AI-driven services, and digital infrastructure designed for both residents and visitors. The Red Sea Global project, a tourism megaproject of hotels and resorts, is another example, showcasing how luxury tourism can blend with cutting-edge sustainability. For attendees, this translates to practical benefits: seamless e-ticketing for events, cashless payment systems, and enhanced safety through smart surveillance.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Environmental stewardship is increasingly being woven into Saudi Arabia’s mega event strategy. The Kingdom has committed to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060, and its upcoming venues are being built with this in mind. Stadiums are incorporating energy-efficient designs, solar power, and water recycling systems, while large-scale projects like NEOM aim to run entirely on renewable energy. Expo 2030 is also expected to set new benchmarks for green construction and waste reduction.
Plan Your Visit
Attending mega events in Saudi Arabia is an exciting opportunity, and you can make the most of it by getting properly prepared. From securing tickets to navigating the country, here’s what visitors should keep in mind.
How to Attend Mega Events
Official ticketing platforms for Saudi Arabia’s upcoming events will vary depending on the event you wish to attend. For example, World Cup 2034 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 tickets will be available directly through FIFA and AFC’s official websites. For esports tournaments, the Esports World Cup website will likewise provide access to passes. Always purchase tickets from official ticketing platforms to make sure your transaction is secure and your tickets are guaranteed.
Tips for Securing Accommodation
With demand expected to be high, it’s wise to book hotels early, especially if you want to stay near the event venues. Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah will see the highest competition for rooms during football tournaments, while NEOM will see a spike during the Winter Games. The good news is that many international chains are expanding in Saudi Arabia tourism hubs, so travelers will find options ranging from budget stays to luxury resorts. And, while proximity to event venues is always desirable, the Kingdom’s new transport links mean that staying slightly farther can also be convenient for travelers looking to save.
Getting Around
Navigating between cities and venues is becoming easier thanks to Saudi Arabia’s expanding infrastructure. The Riyadh Metro is already a game-changer, connecting major districts and event locations. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem, which operate alongside traditional taxis, also offer reliable options for short commutes to stadiums, expo sites, and cultural attractions.
For those who prefer independence, car rentals are widely available at airports and in city centers, giving travelers the flexibility to explore beyond event venues. Improved highways also make road travel smoother, with clear signage in both Arabic and English catering to international travelers.
Weather Guide
Saudi Arabia’s climate varies across the year, and understanding the seasons can help visitors plan their trips more comfortably. Winter (mid-December to mid-March) is the most comfortable season, with cooler temperatures across the Kingdom. This is when the AFC Asian Cup 2027 will take place, offering fans pleasant conditions for traveling between stadiums. Spring (mid-March to mid-June) remains warm but manageable, while summer (mid-June to mid-September) brings soaring temperatures. But don’t worry, visitors attending summer events in major cities will be treated to cool, air-conditioned venues. Autumn (mid-September to mid-December) then brings a welcome drop in temperatures, which visitors for the start of Expo 2030 will appreciate.
