Saudi Arabia to Maintain Alcohol Ban at 2034 World Cup, Affirms LGBTQ Inclusivity
Saudi Arabia will uphold its longstanding ban on alcohol during the 2034 World Cup, according to Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, the kingdom’s ambassador to the United Kingdom.
This announcement follows FIFA’s decision to award Saudi Arabia hosting rights for the prestigious tournament in December 2024.
The kingdom has prohibited alcohol since 1952, aligning with cultural and religious practices that forbid its consumption among observant Muslims. During the 2022 World Cup in neighboring Qatar, alcohol was similarly restricted, with availability limited to designated fan zones and select hotels.
“Plenty of fun can be had without alcohol,” Al Saud stated during an interview with British radio station LBC. “We’re happy to accommodate people within the boundaries of our culture but we don’t want to change our culture for someone else.”
Despite the alcohol ban, the ambassador assured that Saudi Arabia would welcome LGBTQ fans to the tournament. “It is not a Saudi event; it is a world event. We will welcome everyone who wants to come,” he said, referencing the country’s hosting of various sporting events that have attracted international visitors in recent years.
This welcoming tone comes amidst ongoing scrutiny regarding Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, particularly concerning LGBTQ rights. While the country has no public advocacy groups for LGBTQ individuals and severe penalties exist for same-sex relations, officials have made efforts to convey a message of inclusivity for the World Cup.
Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have raised concerns about the potential for “severe and widespread” violations during the tournament, particularly regarding the treatment of migrant workers involved in stadium construction.
The kingdom’s labor system, characterized by the “kafala” sponsorship model, has been criticized for exploitation and lack of rights for foreign laborers.
