September 4, 2025 | 01:50 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Saudi Tourism has teamed up with Cristiano Ronaldo for its latest campaign, "I Came for Football, I Stayed for More." The campaign invites international fans to experience Saudi Arabia's many tourist attractions beyond football.
For example, various sports and entertainment events are held throughout the year in Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. Tourists attending the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, the 2027 Esports Olympic Games, and the 2029 Asian Winter Games can also explore these cities' tourist spots.
Saudi Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, stated that Saudi Arabia is strengthening its position as a global destination that combines cultural authenticity, warm hospitality, and the thrill of world-class events. "In the tourism sector, we remain steadfast in our commitment to developing a seamless landscape that inspires the world and provides visitors with unforgettable experiences," he said in a press release on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, believes that the campaign with Cristiano Ronaldo reflects today's Saudi Arabia. Since 2018, over 100 major international events have been held in Saudi Arabia. He is optimistic that Saudi Arabia will achieve its target of 150 million visitors by 2030, given the increase in international events.
"We are committed to welcoming the world to join us in the Heart of Arabia, to stay a while and witness the future unfold in real time," he said.
Ancient Kingdom Festival AlUla. Dok. Saudi Tourism Authority
Meanwhile, for Cristiano Ronaldo, being part of Saudi Arabia's journey as a global sports center is a very special experience. He admires how the country respects its cultural roots while also building its future. "From camels to horses, racing to esports, from the desert to the stadium, this is a place where every young athlete can dream big," he said.
In addition to hosting prestigious sports events, Saudi Arabia holds major international events such as the Esports World Cup, Formula 1, LIV Golf Riyadh, tennis tournaments, and the Saudi Pro League (RSL). This also includes cultural and entertainment agendas such as the Riyadh Fashion Week, Red Sea International Film Festival, Art Biennale, and the "Seasons" event in Riyadh and Jeddah.
Currently, Saudi Arabia is investing US$800 billion to become a global-scale event center. It is projected to reach a market value of US$22.4 billion by 2030 and contribute US$16.5 billion to the GDP. This growth is expected to create new job opportunities, drive infrastructure development, and increase youth participation.
Major international sports events and festivals are not only expected to attract many visitors, but also to drive substantial growth in infrastructure development. This includes the construction of stadiums, arenas, and new tourism infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for accommodation, transportation, and entertainment.
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