Abu Dhabi, December 13, 2024 – In a gesture of solidarity and celebration, the rulers of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) extended heartfelt congratulations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following its historic success in securing the rights to host the FIFA World Cup 2034. The announcement, made earlier this week, marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia as it prepares to welcome the world's most prestigious football tournament.
The congratulatory messages were sent by Their Highnesses Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman; Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah; Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Qaiwain; and Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. In their messages, the UAE leaders expressed their sincere congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia.
In addition to the rulers, several other prominent figures from the UAE's royal family sent similar congratulatory cables. These included Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman; Sheikh Nasser bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Deputy Ruler of Ajman; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah; Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Crown Prince of Umm Al Qaiwan; and Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah.
The messages, sent through formal cables, recognized the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s achievement in winning the bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a decision that marks a new chapter in the country’s efforts to strengthen its global standing in sports, tourism, and international diplomacy. The UAE rulers expressed their admiration for Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision and commitment to making the World Cup a resounding success, while emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration and shared prosperity.
The UAE's warm congratulations further reflect the deep historical ties between the two nations, underscoring the spirit of unity and cooperation that characterizes the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Saudi Arabia’s successful bid not only elevates its profile on the world stage but also promises to bring significant economic and cultural benefits to the region, enhancing the Middle East’s growing role in global sports.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup has been lauded as a triumph of vision and strategic planning, with plans for state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class stadiums, and a comprehensive legacy program aimed at promoting football and fostering long-term social and economic growth.
As Saudi Arabia prepares for the monumental event in 2034, the congratulations from the UAE rulers serve as a powerful affirmation of the shared aspirations of the Gulf nations to promote unity, peace, and prosperity through international sporting events. The FIFA World Cup is expected to be a transformative event for the region, with the potential to leave a lasting legacy that resonates far beyond the tournament itself.