Emirati fans dream of cheering on UAE at World Cup 2034 in Saudi Arabia

Locals delighted to have chance to be part of second tournament in 12 years in region

A digital rendering of the planned King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With a proposed capacity of 92,000, the stadium is expected to host the opening game and the final. Getty Images

A digital image of the proposed King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Getty Images

A digital rendering of the interior of the planned King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Getty Images

The proposed King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Getty Images

A model of the proposed Roshn Stadium is seen inside the Saudi Arabia World Cup bid exhibition. Reuters

A model of the proposed New Murabba Stadium displayed at the Saudi Arabia World Cup bid exhibition. Reuters

A model of the proposed King Salman International Stadium. Reuters

A model of the proposed Aramco Stadium. Reuters

A model of the proposed Jeddah Central Development Stadium. Reuters

A model of the proposed King Abdullah Economic City Stadium. Reuters

A model of the proposed NEOM Stadium. Reuters

A model of the proposed King Khalid University Stadium. Reuters

Emirati football fans are embracing being part of the “lucky generation” as Saudi Arabia gears up to bring the World Cup back to the Gulf in 2034 – and they are pinning their hopes on the UAE having a shot at glory.

The kingdom was confirmed as host of the global sporting spectacle on Wednesday, with hopes high that the country can build on the success of Qatar's historic staging of the tournament in 2022 and once again show the region at its best.

For supporters in the Middle East – who for decades were well used to seeing the event held thousands of kilometres away in Europe, Africa and North and South America – it provides another opportunity to see the world's best players in action and be guests at football's biggest party.

“Saudi Arabia hosting the World Cup is very important to our region. We are a lucky generation as we witnessed the World Cup in Qatar and hope to witness the one in Saudi Arabia in 10 years,” said Khalifa Mohammed, 31, from Dubai.

“It will have a positive economic impact to UAE and the Gulf region. During the Qatar World Cup, we felt the atmosphere of World Cups.”

He said it was a chance to celebrate football as a region and once again show off the Middle East's hospitality.

“It’s not just about the matches but it is also about the connectivity it brings to our countries,” he said. “Fans will come together to share in a historic experience.”

Anticipation building

As the countdown begins, football fans in the UAE are already marking their calendars and dreaming of a World Cup experience that feels closer to home than ever before.

Hamad Al Mazrouei, 32, believes Saudi Arabia 2034 has the potential to the best World Cup yet.

“I was very happy when I heard the news. It’s like the UAE had won the bid to host the World Cup. I’m sure it will be the best edition ever,” Mr Al Mazrouei said.

“The development in Saudi Arabia is huge. Imagine what Saudi Arabia will be in 2034. They are starting from now to make it an unforgettable cup.”

The football lover has never attended a World Cup, but is ready to fulfil his sporting dreams with all of the action only a short trip away.

“I’ve always dreamt of attending a World Cup, but travelling to far-off countries wasn’t always feasible,” he added.

“I missed the World Cup in Qatar but now with Saudi Arabia hosting, it’s an easy trip.”

Opportunity beckons for UAE

He hopes the UAE national team can qualify for the first time since its only appearance in 1990, as the team would draw passionate support from travelling Emiratis.

“It is very close distance. UAE must qualify to the World Cup in Saudi Arabia as we will fill the stadiums,” he added.

Jamal Al Maani, 27, believes Saudi Arabia's successful bid will help the UAE's chances of hosting a future tournament.

“I’m very happy to have Saudi Arabia hosting the World Cup. It will encourage neighbouring countries such as UAE to place bids to host the World Cup, proving that it is a viable and successful market,” Mr Al Maani said.

The Abu Dhabi-based fan believes many Emiratis will take advantage of having a World Cup on their doorstep once again.

“I’m planning to go to the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia. Its only an hour flight. It is very convenient for fans from neighbouring countries to enjoy the international cup,” he added.

“I’m thrilled knowing it’s easy to go to watch my favourite national teams, Italy and Portugal. The infrastructure is already built to host a unique edition in Saudi Arabia.”

Faisal Al Shehhi, 41, said: “We congratulate Saudi Arabia for this win. It’s a joy for all Gulf and Arab countries. I’m sure it will be a remarkable edition as Saudi Arabia is capable of astonishing the world.

“The close distance between us will make many travel to watch the matches. The World Cup in Qatar was extraordinary and gave the chance to many living in the Gulf to go and enjoy the matches. The same will happen in Saudi Arabia.”

Governing body Fifa’s decision was a formality, with Saudi Arabia the sole bidders to host the 25th edition of the tournament. But this didn't dampen the enthusiasm of Middle East supporters.

Last month, Saudi Arabia unveiled plans for a 92,000-capacity King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, which will stage the opening match and the final of the 2034 tournament.

The stadium is scheduled to be completed in 2029.