Saudi Arabia won' lift alcohol ban during FIFA World Cup 2034, says UK envoy

Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the UK, Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, confirmed that alcohol will not be available in the kingdom while hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, emphasising that it goes against the country’s cultural values and will not be compromised.

“Plenty of fun can be had without alcohol; it's not 100% necessary,” he said during an interview with London Broadcasting Company (LBC) radio.

He reiterated that while people are free to drink outside Saudi Arabia, the country itself does not allow alcohol.

When asked if visitors could have alcohol in their hotels, the ambassador made it clear that there would be no exceptions and that there will be no alcohol anywhere in the kingdom.

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Expressing surprise, the radio host questioned whether banning alcohol was truly “welcoming” for international visitors

In response, the ambassador asserted that Saudi Arabia will accommodate visitors “within the boundaries of its culture” and will not alter its traditions for outsiders.

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“We don’t want to change our culture for someone else” he said.

“I mean, really—you can’t live without a drink?” he asked the host in a lighthearted manner.