Badr Al-Ruziza, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al-Qadisiyah Club Company, confirmed that the major transformations taking place in the sports sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have opened up wide fields for investment, stressing that the investment appeal of the sector is no longer limited to football only, but has extended to include all games and activities related to it.
Sports as an economic driver within Vision 2030
This came during Al-Ruziza's participation in a dialogue session hosted by the Eastern Province Facilities Support Center, entitled "The Role of the Sports Sector in Empowering Businesses and Supporting Their Development." Al-Ruziza explained that sports have become a key contributor to the national economy in many countries worldwide, which aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify income sources and increase the sports sector's contribution to the GDP.
The president of Al-Qadisiyah pointed out that the Kingdom is poised for major international events, most notably hosting the 2034 World Cup, in addition to continuing to host Formula 1 races and having a strong professional league aiming to be among the top five leagues in the world. He added that attracting international stars now confirms the high market value of the Saudi league and enhances its soft power and international influence.
Privatization: A Qualitative and Historic Shift
Speaking about the sports club privatization project, a pivotal event in the history of Saudi sports, Al-Ruziza explained that privatization offers tremendous opportunities to expand sports investment, develop media rights, and introduce modern technologies in facility management. Al-Ruziza's remarks come at a time when Al-Qadisiyah Club is undergoing a qualitative transformation following its acquisition by Saudi Aramco, reflecting a prime example of the success of privatization in enhancing club efficiency and developing their infrastructure.
Promising opportunities for entrepreneurs
Al-Ruzaiza addressed a message to entrepreneurs, emphasizing that opportunities are now more favorable than ever to enter this field, whether through owning clubs, working in player agencies, or investing in sports academies, which are witnessing fierce competition to provide the best services and discover talent. He noted that investment is not limited to major clubs, but also includes expanding the scope of sports facilities and support services, thus creating a competitive environment focused on quality and professionalism.
He concluded by emphasizing that sports today is an integrated industry that requires sophisticated investment thinking to keep pace with national aspirations and make the Kingdom a global sports center.
