Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has taken center stage in Saudi Arabia’s latest tourism campaign, titled “I Came for Football, I Stayed For More.” Launched on September 1, 2025, this effort showcases the kingdom’s vibrant mix of sports, culture, and entertainment events, aiming to draw global visitors to spots like Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla.
Campaign Highlights and Goals
The campaign falls under the “Saudi, Welcome to Arabia” brand and promotes an “Unreal Calendar” packed with year-round activities. It targets markets in Europe, India, and China, using Ronaldo’s massive appeal to highlight how the country offers more than just football.
Ronaldo appears in a short video, narrating his personal journey and inviting fans to explore beyond the pitch. The push emphasizes diverse experiences, from high-stakes sports to cultural festivals, all tied to Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global hub.
This move comes as tourism surges in the region, with visitor numbers climbing steadily. Recent data shows Saudi Arabia welcomed over 100 million tourists in 2024, a jump from previous years, driven by events and relaxed visa rules.
Ronaldo’s Role and Personal Touch
As a resident playing for Al-Nassr in Riyadh, Ronaldo brings authenticity to the campaign. He shares how his time in Saudi Arabia has surprised him with its energy and ambition.
In his own words, shared on social media, Ronaldo notes the blend of tradition and modernity that keeps him engaged. This endorsement aligns with his experiences since joining the Saudi Pro League in 2023, where he has scored over 60 goals and boosted the league’s international profile.
The campaign video captures Ronaldo at various events, showing fans the excitement of live spectacles. His involvement extends his brand beyond football, including past promotions for Saudi bids like the 2034 World Cup.
Experts point out that celebrity endorsements like this can increase tourism interest by up to 20 percent in targeted markets, based on similar global campaigns.
Link to Vision 2030 and Economic Growth
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 drives this initiative, aiming to diversify the economy away from oil. Tourism is a key pillar, with goals to create jobs and build infrastructure.
The campaign ties into major upcoming events that position the kingdom on the world stage. Investments in sports and entertainment have already pumped billions into the economy, creating thousands of opportunities.
Recent reports indicate tourism contributed over 7 percent to Saudi GDP in 2024, with projections for even higher growth by 2030. This push helps rebrand the country as a welcoming destination for families, adventure seekers, and sports enthusiasts.
- Key Vision 2030 tourism targets include reaching 150 million annual visitors by 2030.
- Focus areas cover cultural sites, modern entertainment, and eco-friendly experiences.
- Economic benefits extend to local businesses, from hotels to event organizers.
Packed Events Calendar for Visitors
The “Unreal Calendar” features a lineup of sports and cultural happenings that run throughout the year. Highlights include music festivals like MDLBeast and major races.
Travelers can plan trips around curated packages that combine football matches with desert adventures or historical tours. This variety caters to different interests, making Saudi Arabia appealing for short stays or longer explorations.
| Event Type | Location | Notable Examples | Expected Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports | Riyadh | Saudi Pro League, Formula 1 | Over 1 million fans annually |
| Entertainment | Jeddah | MDLBeast Music Festival | Hundreds of thousands |
| Cultural | AlUla | Ancient site tours, winter festivals | Growing international draw |
| Esports | Various | Esports World Cup | Global online and live viewers |
These events build on recent successes, like hosting the Asian Cup qualifiers and golf tournaments, which have drawn record crowds.
Global Impact and Future Plans
Ronaldo’s campaign spotlights Saudi Arabia’s bids for big international events, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup and 2027 Esports Olympics. These align with efforts to inspire young athletes worldwide.
Industry analysts predict this will boost inbound tourism from Asia and Europe, where Ronaldo has huge followings. Early social media buzz shows millions of views on campaign videos, signaling strong interest.
As Saudi Arabia continues to host events like LIV Golf and winter games, the tourism sector looks set for sustained growth. This campaign could mark a turning point in how the world sees the kingdom.
What do you think about Ronaldo’s role in promoting Saudi tourism? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to friends who love travel or football.
