London: Alcohol will not be permitted during the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia, confirmed Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the UK, Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud. In an interview with LBC radio station, he clarified that alcohol will not be sold anywhere in the country during the tournament.
This decision sets the Saudi World Cup apart from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where alcoholic beverages were available at premium prices in designated fan zones and five-star hotels.
Prince Khalid stated, “At present, we do not allow alcohol.” He further emphasized that Saudi Arabia will host the World Cup while upholding its cultural and religious traditions. “Every country has its own culture. We are ready to accommodate people within the limits of our culture, but we do not want to change our culture for anyone else,” he asserted.
The ambassador also stressed that the FIFA World Cup is a global event, not just Saudi Arabia’s. “We will welcome all those who want to be part of this tournament,” he said.
The decision has sparked discussions as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the prestigious football event. Alongside the sport, the tournament is expected to showcase the nation’s rich culture and traditions to the world.
