Women’s football progresses at a remarkable pace in Saudi Arabia

 

Women’s football growing at an accelerated pace in Saudi Arabia

NEOM, in collaboration with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), has unveiled the groundbreaking report, Pioneering Change: Women’s Football in Saudi Arabia. This comprehensive publication highlights the remarkable progress of women’s football in the Kingdom, celebrates significant milestones, and explores the sport’s promising future.

As the Presenting Partner of the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League, NEOM is dedicated to fostering the growth of women’s football in Saudi Arabia and beyond. The report chronicles the exponential development of the sport and its role in shaping the future of athletics across the Kingdom, the Middle East, and Asia.

Driving Social Change Through Sport

Women’s football in Saudi Arabia has become a beacon for societal transformation, inspiring greater participation in sports and challenging traditional norms. It aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives, promoting gender equality, healthier lifestyles, and broader inclusion. The upcoming FIFA World Cup 2034, hosted by Saudi Arabia, is expected to further amplify interest and participation in women’s football.

 

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Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, remarked:
“This report, crafted with contributions from key stakeholders, provides a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape, challenges, and opportunities in women’s football. It’s about more than just the sport; it’s about creating pathways for women, demonstrating the profound impact of sports on individuals and communities. Together with the AFC, we aim to unlock the potential of women’s football and inspire change across the region.”

Key Milestones and Achievements

The report celebrates pivotal achievements in Saudi women’s football over the past six years, including:

• The launch of the Saudi Women’s Premier League and Women’s National Team.
• Recognition with an official FIFA world ranking.
• Establishing developmental pathways at the grassroots level, such as the Schools League, with 77,000 girls participating annually.
• Opening six regional training centers and launching coaching and refereeing programs.
• Attracting international talent, with 60 players from 20 nationalities competing in Saudi leagues.

 

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Insights from Leaders in the Field

Aalia Abdulaziz AlRasheed, Head of Women’s Football at the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), reflected on the journey:
“The transformation of Saudi women’s football over the past six years has been extraordinary. Driven by Vision 2030, we’ve made remarkable strides in all facets of the game, from grassroots development to professional leagues. Our mission is simple yet profound: to inspire and create opportunities for girls across the Kingdom to pursue their dreams in football.

We’re not alone in this endeavor. With 62 active partnerships worldwide, we are co-developing the women’s game on a global scale. The journey of Saudi women’s football has not only inspired millions locally but has resonated internationally. The best is yet to come.”

 

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A Vision for the Future

The report explores the strategic pillars propelling women’s football forward, including investment in infrastructure, commercialization, leadership development, and accessibility. It paints a picture of a sport that is not only transforming communities but also driving tangible progress toward a more inclusive and vibrant future.

A Bright Horizon

With its roots firmly planted in Vision 2030, Saudi women’s football is on a trajectory of unprecedented growth. The NEOM report serves as both a testament to the achievements of the past and a roadmap for the transformative potential that lies ahead, promising a future where the beautiful game inspires generations and transcends boundaries.

Source: neom.com