World Cup 2034: Saudi Arabia's Labor Rights Crisis Puts Migrant Workers in Peril

As preparations ramp up for the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, concerns surrounding the treatment of migrant workers persist, drawing attention from international charities and human rights organizations. The Business & Human Rights Resource Centre recently published a detailed analysis warning multinational companies involved in World Cup-related projects and potential migrant workers considering employment in the kingdom about the significant risks associated with labor rights in the Gulf state. In an article commemorating International Migrants Day, senior researcher Isobel Archer highlighted the troubling statistics surrounding labor abuses in the Middle East and North Africa. Despite representing only six percent of the global population, this region is responsible for a staggering one-third of all reported cases of migrant worker abuse. Notably, 94 percent of these cases originate from the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—underscoring a pervasive problem across the region. Among these countries, Saudi Arabia stands out as particularly concerning, accounting for 82 of the 490 documented cases in the region. Reports reveal alarming patterns of wage theft, illegal recruitment fees, verbal and physical abuse, and substandard living conditions. Additionally, workers face significant obstacles in seeking legal recourse and encounter frequent health and safety violations. Archer pointed out that the plight of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia is especially severe for those engaged in mega-projects such as NEOM and the Aramco Stadium, which is slated to serve as a venue for the World Cup. With construction workers, alongside cleaning, maintenance, and security staff expected to welcome fans and players alike, the risks to their rights and wellbeing remain acute. "The financial benefits of Saudi 2034 are huge—but they will come at a devastating price for some of the world's most vulnerable workers," Archer stated, emphasizing the moral implications behind the financial gains anticipated from hosting the prestigious tournament. The charity's warnings echo sentiments expressed by a coalition of 21 human rights groups, trade unions, and fan representatives, who criticized FIFA's decision to award the World Cup to Saudi Arabia. In a joint statement, they accused FIFA of being "reckless" with human lives, as they foresee widespread exploitation without significant reforms in the kingdom's labor practices. Amnesty International's head of labor rights and sport, Steve Cockburn, lamented that FIFA is fully cognizant of the impending worker exploitation yet has chosen to move forward with the World Cup plans. Criticism has also emerged from within the architectural community, with British architect Jeremy Till calling for a boycott of Saudi projects ahead of the event. He condemned industry professionals who have rushed to the kingdom seeking commissions, arguing that an ethical response should prioritize the rights and safety of workers over profit. As Saudi Arabia positions itself as a host for the World Cup, promises from government officials regarding labor rights improvements and adherence to FIFA's regulations stand in stark contrast to the reality on the ground. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed the belief that awarding the World Cup to nations like Qatar and Saudi Arabia could serve as a powerful catalyst for positive social change and unity. However, many remain skeptical, insisting that until systemic reforms are enacted, the rights of migrant workers will continue to be jeopardized. With the 2034 World Cup on the horizon, the spotlight remains on Saudi Arabia's labor practices, challenging the narratives of progress touted by the kingdom. As international scrutiny intensifies, the fate of vulnerable workers hangs in the balance, raising critical questions about accountability and the true cost of sporting mega-events.