Riyadh (Agencies): Saudi Arabia has announced that alcohol will be banned during the 2034 FIFA World Cup, including in stadiums, hotels, and restaurants. This decision aligns with the country’s longstanding prohibition on alcohol, which has been in place since 1952. Saudi Ambassador to the UK, Prince Khalid Bin Bandar Al Saud, confirmed the ban in an interview with LBC, stating that visitors will need to respect the host nation’s customs.
“Plenty of fun can be had without alcohol—it’s not 100 percent necessary. If you want to drink after you leave, you’re welcome to, but at the moment we don’t have alcohol,” said Prince Khalid.
This move sets Saudi Arabia apart from Qatar, which allowed alcohol in designated fan zones and select hotels during the 2022 World Cup. The decision has sparked debate among football fans, with some expressing concerns about how it might impact the tournament experience.
The 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia is expected to attract millions of visitors from around the world. The ban on alcohol is part of the country’s broader efforts to maintain its cultural and religious values while hosting the international event.