The Economics of Sport

Sport is not only a source of entertainment and physical activity but also a significant economic force worldwide. The Middle East, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, has been making strides in the realm of sports, both in terms of participation and economic impact.

A Brief Overview of the Economic Landscape

The economic impact of sports in the Middle East is multifaceted. From massive investments in infrastructure to the development of sporting events and industries, the region has been leveraging sports to diversify its economy and enhance national well-being.

The Middle East is emerging as a powerhouse in the global sports industry, driven by major events like F1 racing circuits, the 2022 World Cup and the growth of league football (spearheaded by Cristiano Ronaldo's signing with Al-Nassr FC). With economies diversifying away from oil, sectors like sports are gaining prominence, expected to grow by 8.7% by 2026, shadowing the global trend of 3.3%.  

Mega events like the Dakar Rally and Dubai Racing World Cup not only boost tourism but also have a "halo effect" on multiple sectors, with tourism and hospitality seeing up to a 30% boost. These events bring in millions of spectators and generate significant revenue from ticket sales, hospitality, and tourism. Additionally, Formula 1's presence ripples across the region, with investments in infrastructure. The construction of state-of-the-art stadiums, training facilities, and sports academies not only boosts local economies through job creation but also attracts international events (sport and otherwise) and tourists.  

The Middle East also boasts a lucrative market for sports sponsorship and broadcasting rights. Companies vie for opportunities to associate their brands with prestigious sporting events, leading to substantial financial investments. Moreover, the broadcasting rights for major tournaments command substantial sums, contributing to the region's sports economy.

As the region prioritises diversification, sports will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping its economic and cultural landscape.

The Sustainability Challenge – The Cases of the KSA and UAE

Despite the region's progress in sports economics, certain challenges persist. The most significant of these is sustainability, specifically regarding the long-term viability of the sports economy beyond major events.

Consider the example of the Saudi Pro League, which has been rapidly ascending in global football and enticing world-class foreign players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. This influx has not only elevated the league's status but has also ignited discussions about its international impact. While the Saudi Pro League has received particular criticism over its ascendancy, the impact on grassroots development, empowerment of women and local talent development cannot be understated.  

Saudi Arabia's dedication to women's football since establishing a dedicated department in 2019 has sparked a transformative journey. Notably, the women’s senior and futsal teams have achieved significant victories, leading to their inclusion in FIFA rankings, which is locally considered to be a landmark achievement. Additionally, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's (SAFF) efforts to nurture talent at all levels have been commendable, with recent establishment of numerous youth teams. And at the grassroots level, 28 regional training centers and a surge in registered coaches signify a flourishing football culture. This football renaissance exemplifies Saudi Arabia's determination to excel and reshape the football landscape in the Middle East.

Another example is the UAE, which has been using legislation to revolutionise grassroots sports. Since 2010, regulations have emphasised physical education for youth, targeting both Emirati and expat communities. Recent legislative agendas have prioritised sports development, including the formation of the UAE Sports Federation for School and University Education Institutions (SFSU) and the drafting of a new sports law. The establishment of youth sports-talent centers and online enrollment portals underscores efforts to scout and nurture local talent. Furthermore, private sports academies are playing a significant role, bridging gaps until SFSU infrastructure is fully established.  

In summary, the Middle East presents a dynamic landscape for the economics of sport, driven by significant investments, international events, legislation and growing consumer demand. While challenges exist, strategic initiatives and research efforts can pave the way for sustainable growth and social development through sports.