Riyadh, February 18, 2025 – King Saud University (KSU), in collaboration with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), has entered into a significant partnership to implement the highly esteemed FIFA International Certificate in Sports Management program. The program will be offered through the International Center for Sports Studies (CIES), further solidifying the university’s commitment to developing a world-class sports education system that aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader goals for the future.
This agreement underscores King Saud University's dedication to expanding its academic offerings and enhancing its role as a key player in the sports sector. The program, which will be delivered through KSU's College of Sport Sciences and Physical Activity, is strategically designed to elevate Saudi Arabia’s presence in the international sports arena. This partnership is also a key component of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious national blueprint, which aims to diversify the economy, build a thriving sports ecosystem, and establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in sports and entertainment.
Prof. Abdullah bin Salman Alsalman, Acting President of King Saud University, emphasized that the partnership is a crucial step toward localizing global sports programs in Saudi Arabia. He stated that the primary objective is to equip Saudi professionals with the skills, knowledge, and expertise necessary to advance the Kingdom’s sports infrastructure and prepare a new generation of leaders in the sector. This initiative is expected to be particularly instrumental as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the prestigious 2034 FIFA World Cup, marking a transformative moment in the nation’s sports history.
The FIFA/CIES International Certificate in Sports Management is a globally recognized program that provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the business, governance, and management aspects of sports. It covers a wide range of topics, including sports marketing, finance, law, leadership, and event management, preparing professionals to succeed in a fast-evolving global sports environment. By implementing this program, King Saud University aims to cultivate a cadre of highly qualified sports professionals who can contribute to the sustainable growth and development of Saudi Arabia's sports industry.
The inaugural session of the FIFA/CIES International Certificate in Sports Management is set to launch later in 2025, marking the beginning of a new era in sports education in Saudi Arabia. The program will not only enhance the quality of local sports management but also ensure that Saudi Arabia is prepared to meet the growing demands of hosting major international events in the years ahead.
As part of its broader strategy, King Saud University is determined to foster partnerships and programs that will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s sports ecosystem, helping it evolve into a hub for sports education and innovation. With the backing of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, this collaboration serves as a cornerstone in the nation’s journey to become a global sports leader by 2030 and beyond. Through this initiative, Saudi Arabia is poised to play an increasingly prominent role in the international sports community, paving the way for success at the 2034 FIFA World Cup and beyond.