Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world

Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world
1 / 6
The official announcement of Saudi Arabia as host of FIFA World Cup 2034 was celebrated across the country. (SPA)
Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world
2 / 6
The Saudi national team’s head coach Herve Renard posted a message of congratulations on X. (X/@Herve_Renard_HR)
Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world
3 / 6
A drone-created light show and fireworks illuminate the sky over Riyadh on December 11, 2024, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s confirmation as the host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup football tournament. (AFP)
Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world
4 / 6
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sports and Youth Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki celebrates after Saudi Arabia was confirmed as host of the 2034 World Cup during a ceremony in the capital Riyadh on December 11, 2024. (AFP)
Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world
5 / 6
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sports and Youth Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki celebrates after Saudi Arabia was confirmed as host of the 2034 World Cup during a ceremony in the capital Riyadh on December 11, 2024. (AFP)
Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world
6 / 6
People watch as a drone-created light show and fireworks illuminate the sky over Riyadh on December 11, 2024, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s confirmation as the host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup football tournament. (AFP)
Short Url
Updated 13 December 2024
Follow

Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world

Saudi Arabia’s successful World Cup bid receives congratulations from around the world
  • World leaders, sporting superstars congratulate Kingdom
  • ‘Arab, Gulf and Islamic pride and joy’ says Dubai ruler  

RIYADH: No sooner had FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday confirmed that Saudi Arabia would host the 2034 World Cup, than messages of congratulation began to pour in from around the region and beyond.

The unopposed Saudi bid had just been rubber-stamped by more than 200 FIFA member federations that took part remotely in an online meeting hosted in Zurich.

Leading the way was the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, which greeted the news by posting a message from Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on its official X account.

“We look forward to hosting an exceptional and unprecedented edition of the FIFA World Cup by harnessing out strengths and capabilities to bring joy to football fans around the world,” the message said.

From the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, posted his congratulations.

“Arab, Gulf and Islamic pride and joy. Congratulations on the Kingdom hosting the 2034 World Cup ... We congratulate my brother King Salman bin Abdulaziz ... and his (Crown Prince) Mohammed bin Salman ... and the brotherly Saudi people with their great ambition ... and strong will …,” the vice president and prime minster of the UAE wrote.

“I also congratulate my brother King Mohammed VI on Morocco winning the bid to host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal. The World Cup will be in our region for two consecutive tournaments. Arabs are living today the joy of the great Saudi and Moroccan achievement ... and we expect the best World Cup tournaments, God willing.”

Herve Renard, recently reinstalled as Saudi Arabia’s national team coach, on his account said: “Thrilled for Saudi Arabia and its wonderful people on securing the honor to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup!

“A true reflection of the country’s outstanding vision, remarkable leadership, and unmatched warmth. Get ready for an extraordinary and unforgettable experience ahead.”

Several foreign players plying their trade in the Saudi Pro League were vocal in their support, including Cristiano Ronaldo, whose signing opened the door for the influx of many top players.

“Congratulations to all my friends in Saudi, I know how proud you all are today and I am sure @Saudi2034 will be historic #WelcomeToSaudi34,” he posted.

In an accompanying video, Al-Nassr’s Portuguese superstar said: “It’s amazing, the infrastructure, the stadiums, the conditions for the fans and everything. After what I’ve seen, I’m more convinced that 2034 will be the best World Cup ever.

“The country is unbelievable, the Saudis are very good people. Every year they do big events, football matches, boxing, entertainment is very high,” Ronaldo added. “The future is very bright in my opinion, and I’m happy to be part of this success of the country and I will be here for sure to see the World Cup.”

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, the Saudi minister of sport and president of the Kingdom’s olympic and paralympic committee, and SAFF President Yasser Al-Misehal were presented with the FIFA World Cup 2034 hosting certificate from FIFA.

At the special presentation from Riyadh, Prince Abdulaziz said: “We will host the best version of the World Cup in history and we will achieve our dream of hosting this tournament on our land.”

Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority Turki Al-Sheikh, who has been nominated as a member of Saudi 2034 Supreme Committee, said: “A new achievement for our beloved Kingdom. On this occasion, I congratulate my leader, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Highness, the Crown Prince, the sponsor of the vision, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on winning the bid to host the 2034 World Cup. Congratulations to all of us on this great achievement.”

Al-Hilal and Saudi Arabia captain Salem Al-Dawsari, scorer of the Green Falcons’ winner against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, had this to say on his X account: “The dream has become reality. We thank God for the blessing of our dear homeland.” 

Al-Dawsari’s former Al-Hilal colleague and current Saudi First Division club NEOM player Salman Al-Faraj greeted the news with this post: “Thanks to our wise leadership. With you we grow and achieve our dreams. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia doesn’t write history. It is history.”

Former Saudi Arabia midfielder Sami Al-Jaber, arguably the country’s finest footballer to date, also congratulated the Kingdom’s leadership on securing the hosting rights.

“I congratulate my leader, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Highness (Crown Prince) Mohammed bin Salman, on winning the bid to host the 2034 World Cup,” Al-Jaber wrote. “Congratulations to the Saudi people for achieving this dream. The impossible is not Saudi.”

Retired French forward Bafetimbi Gomis, who achieved cult status during his stay at Al-Hilal, commented: “History in the making #congratulation #SaudiArabia #2034.”

One of Gomis’s successes at Al-Hilal, Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr., congratulated the country with a short message that said simply: “Yalla yalla @Saudi2034 #WelcomeToSaudi34.”

There were also messages of support from around the region, particularly Gulf countries.

The Kuwait Olympic Committee’s official X account posted: “The Chairman and Members of the Board of Directors of the Kuwait Olympic Committee congratulate the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its leadership and people, on the occasion of the Kingdom’s approval of the Kingdom’s winning bid to host the 2034 World Cup, wishing it further progress and success.”

The Qatar Football Association, who hosted the World Cup two years ago, commented: “Congratulations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on being awarded the hosting (of) the #WorldCup2034.”

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al-Nahyan, president of the UAE Football Association, congratulated the leadership and people of the Kingdom by highlighting Saudi Arabia’s resources and experience in hosting major sporting events and describing the achievement as “a victory” for Arab sports.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is qualified in all respects to host the 2034 World Cup, because of its cumulative experience, and it has the capabilities and human resources capable of organizing the largest international events,” he said on the Emirati association’s website.

“We are happy with the return of the World Cup to the Arabian Gulf, as our countries are places of coexistence and tolerance, and fields of creativity.”


Saudi authority issues health warning on food import

Saudi authority issues health warning on food import
Updated 25 sec ago
Follow

Saudi authority issues health warning on food import

Saudi authority issues health warning on food import

RIYADH: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority issued a warning about Country Butcher Boy beef pepperoni, manufactured in the UAE.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the 250-gram packages with an expiration date of March 1, 2025, are contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium posing serious health risks, confirmed by lab tests.

The authority advised the public to avoid consuming the product and dispose of any units they may have.

Steps have been taken to remove the contaminated product from the market, and regulatory action is being pursued against the importing company, the SPA reported.

Violations of food laws can result in severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison, fines of up to SR10 million ($2.6 million), or both.

The authority reiterated its commitment to food safety and will continue taking action against violators. Consumers can report food safety concerns to the authority’s call center at 19999.


Thai Embassy joins Riyadh greening initiative

Thai Embassy joins Riyadh greening initiative
Updated 10 min 37 sec ago
Follow

Thai Embassy joins Riyadh greening initiative

Thai Embassy joins Riyadh greening initiative

RIYADH: The Royal Thai Embassy recently took part in a volunteer initiative at Aba Samri National Park in the Murat governorate of Riyadh region, in collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification.

Part of the National Greening Season, the activity aims to enhance vegetation, curb land degradation, and plant native and adaptive species, supporting the Saudi Green Initiative, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The embassy’s involvement promotes vegetation restoration and aligns with the center’s call for broader environmental engagement from all sectors. The scheme improves air quality, reduces dust storms and restores ecosystems, the SPA added.

The National Greening Season, a core element of the broader program, fosters public-private partnerships, volunteerism, and awareness about afforestation and combating desertification.

The center leads efforts to protect and restore vegetation sites across Saudi Arabia, addressing challenges such as wildfires, illegal logging and unregulated grazing to safeguard natural ecosystems.


Hayy Matsuri celebrates Japanese, Saudi cultural traditions

Hayy Matsuri celebrates Japanese, Saudi cultural traditions
Updated 43 min 47 sec ago
Follow

Hayy Matsuri celebrates Japanese, Saudi cultural traditions

Hayy Matsuri celebrates Japanese, Saudi cultural traditions
  • Three-day festival features performances by Japanese and Saudi artists alongside a host of cultural-inspired activities 
  • Event coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Kingdom

JEDDAH: Art Jameel, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan in Jeddah and Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, has launched the second edition of Hayy Matsuri, a cultural festival celebrating the fusion of Japanese and Saudi traditions, arts, and innovation. 

The festival runs until Jan.11 at Hayy Jameel, and marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia.

This year’s event features exclusive performances by Japanese music project Electronicos Fantasticos! and sound artist Daisuke Tanabe, both making their Saudi debut. 

Their groundbreaking work, which transforms everyday objects and repurposed electronics into musical instruments, will be showcased in collaboration with Saudi artists such as DesertFish, Akram Ali, and Abstract Crew. Together, they explore memories of the past, present, and future through immersive audiovisual performances.

The festival has already garnered immense public interest, with more than 3,000 visitors attending on its opening day.

The festival runs until Jan.11 at Hayy Jameel, and marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia. (Arab News)

Antonia Carver, director of Art Jameel, highlighted the festival’s importance in fostering cultural exchange.  “Through the Jameel family’s great history of philanthropy and long-standing relationship with Japan through ALJ Motors and Toyota, we have a special cultural connection here to explore through Hayy Matsuri. 

“This year marks 70 years of Toyota in Saudi Arabia and 70 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia, making it a particularly significant year for us. 

“The enthusiasm for Japanese culture in Saudi Arabia is immense, as demonstrated by the overwhelming response we received during our open call for the Hayy Matsuri market and the crowds here tonight — the creativity and passion for Japan that exists here is truly remarkable. 

“This year’s highlight is a set of performances and workshops by Electronicos Fantasticos!, a groundbreaking band that transforms old technology into instruments. Their fusion performance with Saudi musicians is a perfect example of the cross-cultural exchange we aim to foster at Art Jameel, showcasing how music, cinema and the arts can unite and communicate across cultures in an exciting and compelling way.”

Daisuke Yamamoto, consul general of Japan in Jeddah, expressed his enthusiasm for the event and its role in strengthening Saudi-Japanese ties. “Hayy Matsuri, held in wonderful cooperation with Hayy Jameel for the second consecutive year, strengthens the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between Japan and Saudi Arabia. 

“This festival showcases various forms of Japanese culture, introducing them to Saudi society, and we are excited to have welcomed over 5,000 visitors last year, with hopes of seeing even more this year. 

The festival runs until Jan.11 at Hayy Jameel, and marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia. (Arab News)

“As Saudi Arabia embraces cultural openness through its Saudi Vision 2030, Japan is proud to partner with the Kingdom in achieving these cultural goals, and Hayy Matsuri plays a vital role in this mission. 

“This year, as Japan and Saudi Arabia celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, we are reminded of the importance of cultural exchange, as demonstrated by the recent signing of an MoU between Saudi Arabia’s minister of culture and Japan’s minister of education, culture, sports, science, and technology.”

The festival offers an array of workshops, performances, and activities that reflect Japanese and Saudi cultural practices. Visitors can enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, Ikebana flower arrangements, Japanese calligraphy, and origami. 

Interactive sessions such as manga drawing, fan art illustration, a board games zone, printmaking activations and cosplay competitions provide creative outlets for all ages.

An open cultural market, supported by Monochrome Community, brings together over 30 vendors, celebrating a fusion of local and Japanese creativity. 

The market features brands and artisans, such as Taiyo Matcha, The Boba Bar, and Onigiri Bites, offering visitors a range of authentic and innovative cultural experiences. 

Founders of Taiyo Matcha, Anas Jeelani and Ai Nakamura, launched their products at the festival, aiming to elevate matcha standards in Saudi Arabia. 

“We noticed that the matcha sold in the Saudi market is not as authentic as we are used to in Japan. We thought if we could bring authentic matcha from Japan and sell it at competitive prices, it would raise the standard for matcha in Saudi Arabia,” Jeelani said.

Workshops such as “Manga Drawing: The Hero’s Story” by Mohamed Almadan immerse participants in Japanese art techniques.

Almadan said: “In this workshop, we focused on creating a space-themed story where everyone had the chance to both write and draw their own manga. 

“My goal is to guide participants in building their unique stories and characters while making the process approachable and fun.”

Alliance Française Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with Hayy Cinema, presents Rendez-vous with French Cinema as part of the Hayy Matsuri 2025 festival. 

Larry Lamartiniere, managing director of Alliance Française, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, saying: “As the newest resident of Hayy Jameel, we are thrilled to partner on Hayy Matsuri 2025 to highlight the strong cultural ties between France and Japan.”

“Our collaboration features two key components: the screening of ‘The Truth,’ a French-Japanese film directed by Hirokazu Kore-Eda, and a workshop dedicated to exploring the influence of Japanese culture on French traditions. 

“France, now the second-largest market for Japanese animation and manga, has embraced various aspects of Japanese culture, from martial arts like judo to the growing popularity of sushi. 

“Through this partnership, we aim to showcase the cultural synergy between the two nations and emphasize France’s role as a global cultural powerhouse. 

“We hope to introduce audiences to the French perspective, encourage them to learn French, and offer them a deeper understanding of the fascinating world of manga, anime, and Japanese pop culture. 

“The workshop will provide a unique opportunity to explore these cultural connections, and attendees can also dive into our newly available French manga collection at the Alliance Francaise library.”


Saudi fund supports Tunisia with hospital projects

Saudi fund supports Tunisia with hospital projects
Updated 50 min 30 sec ago
Follow

Saudi fund supports Tunisia with hospital projects

Saudi fund supports Tunisia with hospital projects

RIYADH: The Saudi Fund for Development recently signed agreements to strengthen Tunisia’s healthcare sector by completing hospitals in Sbiba, Kasserine governorate, and El Jem, Mahdia governorate.

Funded through a soft loan, this initiative highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and supporting development in Tunisia, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The signing ceremony, held at the Tunisian Ministry of Health in Tunis, was attended by Tunisian Minister of Health Mustapha Ferjani, Saudi Ambassador to Tunisia Abdulaziz Al-Saqr, and the fund’s director general for Arab countries operations, Bandar Al-Obaid.

Ferjani expressed gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continued support of Tunisia, emphasizing that this project reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to the Tunisian healthcare sector.

Al-Saqr reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s dedication to advancing joint development projects in Tunisia, financed through various Saudi entities, and stressed the fund’s commitment to completing all its initiatives in the country.

The Saudi Fund for Development so far has financed 32 development projects and programs in Tunisia through soft loans exceeding $1.23 billion, along with four grants worth over $105 million to support key sectors, SPA reported.


Kingdom arrests 19,418 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 19,418 illegals in one week
Updated 11 January 2025
Follow

Kingdom arrests 19,418 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 19,418 illegals in one week

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 19,418 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 11,787 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,380 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,251 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,221 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 56 percent were Ethiopian, 42 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 136 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 19 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, SPA reported.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.