Saudi Arabia has committed to collaborating with FIFA to ensure affordable ticket prices and enhanced fan safety for the 2034 World Cup, according to the country’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal. His remarks come amid widespread concern over skyrocketing ticket costs at the ongoing tournament in North America, where some fans have faced resale prices reaching tens of thousands of pounds.

Prince Abdulaziz emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating that no one should struggle to attend the global event. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to facilitate travel, noting that more than 60 countries now benefit from the kingdom’s e-visa on arrival program, with plans to expand this number further. The initiative began in 2018, coinciding with the hosting of the Formula E championship, marking a significant shift from a time when the kingdom did not issue tourist visas.

The sports minister also pointed to Saudi Arabia’s extensive experience in organizing international sporting events, referencing more than 150 such occasions held to date. He underscored the positive reception from fans, who have consistently reported ease of access and an enjoyable experience at these events.

These developments reflect Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to position itself as a major hub for international sports and tourism ahead of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which it will host for the first time. With growing scrutiny on ticket affordability and fan safety worldwide, the kingdom’s commitment to addressing these issues is a notable aspect of its World Cup preparations.