By Kwame Bediako
Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the UK, has confirmed that alcohol will not be permitted during the 2034 World Cup, including in stadiums and hotels. This decision marks a departure from the 2022 World Cup tournament in Qatar, where alcohol was available in designated areas before a last-minute ban was implemented. While there are reports suggesting a possible shift in policy before the tournament begins, the current stance reflects Saudi Arabia’s stringent laws regarding alcohol consumption.
During an interview with LBC, Prince Khalid reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to its cultural values, stating, “Plenty of fun can be had without alcohol, it’s not 100 percent necessary.” He emphasized that while visitors are welcome to drink after leaving the venues, the country remains firm on its alcohol policies. The ambassador drew a parallel between the nation’s climate and its cultural stance, remarking, “Rather like our weather, it’s a dry country.”
The hosting of the World Cup in Saudi Arabia has sparked widespread controversy, particularly surrounding human rights issues. As the nation prepares to welcome international fans, discussions about the safety and treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals have emerged. When questioned about the safety of LGBTQ+ fans attending the event, Al Saud assured that the country would be inclusive. “We will welcome everyone in Saudi,” he stated, highlighting that the event is a “world event” and not solely a Saudi endeavour.
Despite the welcoming rhetoric, concerns remain regarding how the nation will balance its conservative cultural norms with the expectations of international visitors.
The ambassador’s comments suggest a desire to showcase Saudi Arabia as an accommodating host while maintaining its core values. “Everyone has their own culture. We’re happy to accommodate people within the boundaries of our culture but we don’t want to change our culture for someone else,” he explained.
