This indeed makes it a great responsibility for any country to be a host to such a great occasion as the FIFA World Cup. Competitors to be host nations have much to match such heights not only in infrastructures and logistics but also in ensuring provisions of friendly and welcoming settings that reach out to everyone across various backgrounds. Saudi Arabia, though it has taken some giant steps in hosting international events, is very challenged to handle celebrations of different nationalities since the public celebration policies are quite restrictive.
Restriction on Public Celebrations
Perhaps one of the greatest disadvantages of hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034 for Saudi Arabia is its constraints on public celebrations and events. In the past, the Kingdom was very controlling over events that brought people together, especially those associated with celebrations. The government regulated most public gathering events, which include festivals, music performances, and sports fanfare, from taking place, thus making a festive atmosphere not possible.
Social change, partially under the umbrella of the reform plan called Vision 2030 that was launched in Saudi Arabia with the purpose of diversification beyond the dependence of the country on oil, is visible; yet, these social changes are rather limited to strata.
For instance, while restrictions imposed upon women not to drive and that were associated with entertainment facilities have been relaxed, the celebrations or functions within the public areas still seem to be very limited. It hosts joyous communal events, such as the World Cup. Therefore, rules might then clash with enjoyment, leaving less of the communal that fans can indulge in.
A fine of 5,000 Saudi Riyals, approximately $1,333, is levied against individuals who act in a manner to disrupt public order or safety, including during the celebrations of National Day. These acts include harming, frightening, or endangering others. Doubled fines may be imposed if such offenses occur more than once.
Inability to Control Inclusivity
One of the most attractive features of the FIFA World Cup is that it tends to combine fans from the four corners of the globe be it in the sense of color, nationality, religion, or even background. However, as far as freedom of speech and public assembly are concerned, Saudi Arabian policies are pretty restricted; this might create some problems while trying to create an inclusive atmosphere in a world event where all cultures come together to celebrate.
The fans might want to express national pride, heritage, and culture through street performances, for instance, through music, food, or art. However, these displays in Saudi Arabia will hit existing prohibitions. The implication is that the Saudi government will fail in their delivery as they will not be able to let the fans have fun experiencing the group spirit of the tournament.
Taking pictures or videos of people without their consent attracts a fine of 1,000 Riyals, which can be doubled for repeat offenses in public. Such images must be deleted upon request.
Prohibitions on Celebrations of Religions and Cultures
It’s a very devout country, and, to a great extent, Islamic practices and customs prevail there. It celebrates its religious activities most ecstatically, yet it takes pretty stringent decisions at the governmental level about how the Islamic code and customs will have to be complied with, possibly at variance with what is taking place across the globe in celebrating the FIFA World Cup.
Shi’a Muslims, who constitute about 10-15 percent of the population, are subjected to systematic discrimination on various matters, such as education, employment, and governmental office holding. Shi’a Muslims suffer vilification at the hands of government-sponsored historical narratives and curricula.
For example, an LGBTQ+ country or fans will face difficulties in celebrating openly as well as their tradition. A host nation has to guarantee that all the fans can enjoy themselves freely and express themselves no matter their background or beliefs which would be difficult if a country restricts expression either directly or indirectly.
Economic and Tourism Opportunities Impacted
The FIFA World Cup is much more than a sporting event. It provides an avenue for the enhancement of tourism and local economies while creating international exposure. In a country where public celebrations are heavily controlled, this can be one significant area where the hosting of big events can be significantly derailed.
Without inclusive public celebrations, Saudi Arabia might not be able to attract tourists, fans, and businesses looking to capitalize on the economic potential of the event. The ability to manage celebrations for fans from a variety of backgrounds plays an important role in creating a welcoming atmosphere that can last beyond the celebrations.
Balancing Tradition with Modernity
Saudi Arabia has done a lot to modernize its economy and society under Vision 2030, but there is still the challenge of balancing tradition with modernity. The FIFA World Cup is a global event that needs an adaptive approach respecting national heritage while also accommodating the diverse and inclusive nature of the event.
But rigid restrictions on celebrations and cultural expressions may alienate a huge chunk of the international visitors it wants to attract. The FIFA World Cup celebrates diversity, and Saudi Arabia’s current stance on public celebrations may not align with the inclusive atmosphere that a country needs to host such a monumental event successfully.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia will become and develop even more towards international events, yet it will also have problems with limiting policies for public celebrations hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034. All cultures will be included in this event and the expression of such culture with the unification of fans from every corner of the world will be a minimum requirement to ensure the success of the tournament. Only up to this limit can Saudi be expected, in the near term at least, to provide truly inclusive environments characteristic of the World Cup spirit.
