In a strategic move aimed at strengthening the sports infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, in close coordination with the Ministry of Sport and relevant sports federations, has approved a significant initiative to support and promote the practice of Olympic and Paralympic sports. This ambitious initiative targets various clubs across the Kingdom's regions, cities, governorates, and centers, representing a fundamental shift in the development of the sports sector.
General context and Vision 2030
This initiative is a practical implementation of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 , which prioritizes improving the quality of life for citizens and residents, with promoting community participation in sports activities being a key pillar. Through these programs, the Kingdom aims to increase the rate of regular exercise in society, build a healthy and fit generation, and discover and nurture promising sporting talent at a young age.
The initiative was approved following a series of inspection visits directed by His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Subsequently, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Baeshen, CEO and Secretary General of the Committee, visited more than 70 clubs across the Kingdom over the past two months to assess their needs and capabilities, ensuring that the initiative is based on a realistic and in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities available.
The importance of the initiative and its expected impact
The initiative stipulates that 12 targeted sports federations, within the framework of the “Reaching the Podium 2032 Strategy,” will provide comprehensive technical and administrative support to clubs. This will be achieved through dedicated budgets and targeted technical programs aimed at developing athletic performance under the supervision of top-tier, qualified coaches. The initiative also includes increasing the number of participants and providing specialized sports equipment for each sport, with the goal of facilitating the practice of these targeted sports by citizens of the Kingdom in their home cities and primary places of residence.
Domestically, the initiative is expected to broaden the base of sports participants, foster a healthy competitive environment among clubs, and develop talent from across the Kingdom. Regionally and internationally, this step will enhance Saudi Arabia's position as a leading sports hub and increase its ability to compete strongly in international events, particularly the Olympic and Paralympic Games, thus serving the Kingdom's aspirations to achieve global sporting success.
It is worth noting that the federations targeted at this stage are: Athletics, Judo, Taekwondo, Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, Swimming, Weightlifting, Shooting, Equestrian, Fencing, Wrestling, and Paralympic Athletics.
