A transformation to change the economy
The Arab world is always associated with oil, sheikhs and high temperatures. But for some years they have sought to change that vision that is held of them. The country’s latest hit was the hiring of one of the best footballers on the planet: Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been wearing the Al Nassr shirt since this year.
To this is added the organization of various events, such as the final of the Spanish Super Cup, the final of the Italian Super Cup or the game between Paris Saint-Germain and the combination of the two best teams in the capital, Riyadh.
It seems that the Arabs want to attract the world’s attention for their financial muscle, but no, behind all this there is a deeper vision, in accordance with Al-Ibrahim’s philosophy.
“Sport is great, but we are not doing this to attract attention, we are doing it to transform the economy.”
And this is how Saudi Arabia raises its hand to welcome the Expo 2030 a global event that aims to promote progress and encourage cooperation, with the participation of the private sector, civil society and the general public in interactive exhibitions, live performances, workshops and conferences.
In the sporting aspect, they will hold the 2029 Asian Winter Games and the Women’s Asian Cup, in addition to presenting a bid for the men’s Asian Cup in 2027.
“The sport is growing very fast in Saudi Arabia. We have 35 million inhabitants. Many of them are under 30 years old, and 60% really like sports, all kinds of sports.
“So keep in mind that the young generation, that Saudi team that beat the world champion, Argentina, loves football, loves the sport. We do this for the people. We don’t do it for image”.
And so, with that philosophy, the transformation of Saudi Arabia continues and advances.
