Despite ongoing criticism of its human rights record, FIFA has announced that Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The decision was made on December 11 during an online meeting led by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, following Saudi Arabia’s status as the sole bidder for the tournament.

To prepare for the event, Saudi Arabia plans to construct or upgrade 15 stadiums and other essential facilities. Reports suggest the World Cup final will be hosted across five cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and Neom.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed the country’s ambition to deliver an “exceptional” tournament, which aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to transform its economy and society.

The event is expected to be held in January 2034 to avoid the region’s extreme summer heat and overlap with the holy month of Ramadan.

However, the decision has drawn criticism from rights groups such as Amnesty International, who accuse the kingdom of “sportswashing”—using sports to divert attention from its human rights record. They have also raised concerns about the safety and well-being of migrant workers involved in the preparations.