Minister of Sports: Hosting 150 world championships and attracting 3.5 million visitors
His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, extended his warmest congratulations and blessings to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister - may God protect them - and to the generous Saudi people, on the occasion of the glorious founding day anniversary.
Historical depth and future vision
In a press statement on this national occasion, the Minister of Sports affirmed that the Founding Day commemorates the deep-rooted history of the Saudi state, beginning with the era of Imam Muhammad bin Saud (may God have mercy on him), continuing through the Second Saudi State, and culminating in the unification of the Kingdom by the founding King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman (may God rest his soul). His Highness pointed out that these historical milestones laid the foundations for unity and stability over three centuries, marking a pivotal turning point in the building of a modern and strong state, whose structure has been further strengthened by the sons of the founding King after him, leading to our present prosperous era.
Unprecedented boom in the sports sector
In discussing the Kingdom's developmental achievements under Vision 2030, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal explained that the sports sector enjoys significant support and attention from the wise leadership, enabling it to achieve remarkable progress and placing the Kingdom on the global sports map. His Highness revealed record-breaking figures reflecting the scale of this transformation, noting that the Kingdom has successfully hosted more than 150 international and continental events and championships since 2018.
The minister pointed out that these major events were not just sporting events, but had become an important economic and tourism boost, as these events witnessed the attendance of more than 3.5 million visitors from all over the world, reflecting the Kingdom’s organizational capabilities and advanced infrastructure that qualifies it to host the largest international events.
Enhancing quality of life and exercising
The achievements were not limited to hosting elite championships, but extended to include promoting a healthy lifestyle for all members of society, which is one of the most important targets of the Quality of Life Program within the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. In this regard, the Minister of Sports announced that the sector has achieved its national targets by reaching a rate of 59.1%, a figure that reflects the success of community initiatives in raising awareness of the importance of physical activity.
His Highness the Minister of Sports concluded his speech by praying to God Almighty to protect the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Highness the Crown Prince, and to grant them His help and success to continue the path of development, and to perpetuate the blessings of security, safety and prosperity upon the Kingdom.
