Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark agreement to develop an international cricket stadium in Jeddah. The project aims to strengthen cricket infrastructure in the Kingdom and deepen sporting cooperation between the two countries.
The memorandum of understanding was signed on Wednesday by Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Mohammad Al Saud, chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF), and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s interior minister.
Naqvi arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday for talks with Saudi leaders. The discussions focused on security cooperation, counter narcotics efforts and institutional collaboration, according to Pakistani state media.
Stadium to boost Saudi cricket ambitions
Under the agreement, both cricket boards will jointly develop the stadium. They will work on infrastructure, technical expertise, venue planning and operational standards. Their goal is to build a modern venue that meets international competition requirements.
“Today’s partnership is not only about developing an international cricket stadium in Jeddah; it is about building a long-term future for cricket in Saudi Arabia through shared ambition, trusted partnerships and sustainable investment,” Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Mohammad Al Saud said.
The stadium will help Saudi Arabia host international cricket matches and major sporting events. It will also support sports investment, tourism and community participation under Vision 2030.
The partnership extends beyond the main stadium. It also includes playing surfaces, broadcast and media facilities, hospitality areas, training facilities and modern spectator services. The project aims to create a complete environment for players, officials, fans and commercial partners.
Wider cooperation between PCB and SACF
The agreement also creates a framework for broader cooperation. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will work together to develop cricket competitions, technical programs and player development initiatives. They will also exchange expertise to support the game’s long term growth in the Kingdom.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board is honored to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s exciting cricket journey,” Naqvi said. “Together, we are creating a partnership that will strengthen the game, connect our cricketing communities and leave a lasting legacy.”
The deal builds on earlier cooperation. In April, the PCB Board of Governors approved an expression of interest to support the development of a cricket stadium in Jeddah. Wednesday’s signing formally launched the partnership.
Cricket continues to grow in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in cricket since establishing the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation in 2020. The federation has introduced development programs, expanded grassroots participation and prepared national teams for higher levels of international competition.
Cricket first arrived in the Kingdom during the early 1960s through expatriate communities from Pakistan and India. Local clubs soon followed as interest in the sport grew. Saudi Arabia became an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council in 2003. The ICC granted the Kingdom associate membership in 2016, allowing greater participation in international cricket.
The Jeddah stadium project marks one of Saudi Arabia’s biggest cricket infrastructure investments. It also reflects the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 strategy to expand its global sporting presence while strengthening ties with Pakistan through long term sports cooperation.
