As Saudi Arabia gears up to host the 2034 World Cup the kingdom is navigating a delicate balance between its conservative laws and its aspirations to be a global destination. The country, known for its strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law has been making efforts to soften its image under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Recent reforms include allowing women to drive, reopening cinemas, and welcoming non-Muslim tourists. However, the status of LGBTQ+ visitors remains a contentious issue, with homosexuality still criminalized and potentially punishable by death.
Signs of a Shifting Stance
The upcoming Arabian Nights cruise organized by the US LGBTQ+ travel company VACAYA is a notable example of this shift. Scheduled for spring 2027, the cruise will sail from Jeddah to Egypt signaling a new openness towards LGBTQ+ tourism.
VACAYA’s announcement highlights a quiet but notable shift in Saudi Arabia’s approach to LGBTQ+ visitors. The company notes that while LGBTQ+ visitors could scarcely imagine setting foot in the kingdom in the past, the country is now seeking to reshape its international image ahead of the World Cup.
The Official Line: Everyone is Welcome
Saudi authorities have stated that everyone will be welcome during the World Cup. The official Visit Saudi website explicitly addresses the question, “Are LGBT visitors welcome to visit Saudi?” with the answer, “Everyone is welcome.” However, this welcome comes with the caveat that visitors must respect local culture and traditions and follow Saudi laws.
The website emphasizes that visitors are not required to disclose their personal information and that their right to privacy will be respected. This stance mirrors the approach taken by Qatar during the 2026 World Cup, where LGBTQ+ supporters faced restrictions despite the country’s assurances of inclusivity.
The Reality on the Ground
Despite the official rhetoric, the reality for LGBTQ+ individuals in Saudi Arabia remains complex. Activist and lawyer Tariq Aziz describes the existence of “two Saudi Arabias”: one more tolerant and open for foreigners, and another much more conservative for citizens.
While some privileged Saudis are able to push the boundaries of freedom, homosexuality remains largely taboo. Public support for LGBTQ+ rights is criminalized and could lead to imprisonment. Amnesty International’s Middle East researcher Dana Ahmed notes that recent cases documented by the NGO date back to 2026 and were categorized as freedom of expression cases rather than a crackdown on the LGBTQ+ community.
Aziz, who was detained from 2026 to 2026 for promoting homosexuality and Twitter posts deemed harmful to public order, has since received refugee status in the United States. He emphasizes the need for laws that protect LGBTQ+ Saudis against discrimination, hatred, and persecution.
The upcoming World Cup presents a unique opportunity for Saudi Arabia to demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity. However, the country’s ability to balance its conservative laws with its global ambitions remains to be seen.
