Lahore The Pakistan Cricket Board is in advanced discussions with the Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation to construct a new cricket stadium in Jeddah, a move that has already received approval from the PCB Governing Board.
According to PCB sources, chairman Mohsin Naqvi is personally leading negotiations with Saudi officials, and an expression of interest for the project has already been submitted as discussions move forward.
The proposed stadium in Jeddah is expected to feature modern facilities including floodlights, high-quality pitches, and seating capacity suitable for international matches and Pakistan Super League fixtures.
Officials believe the project could significantly boost cricket development in Saudi Arabia, where interest in the sport has grown rapidly due to a large South Asian expatriate population.
Saudi cricket authorities had earlier approached the PCB with the idea, reflecting the kingdom’s ambition to expand its sporting profile and possibly launch its own domestic T20 league.
PCB officials have expressed willingness to support the initiative, citing strong bilateral relations and the opportunity to strengthen cricket ties between the two nations.
Sources also highlighted the presence of a large Pakistani and South Asian community in Saudi Arabia as a key factor driving the proposal forward.
If finalised, the stadium could also host Pakistan Super League matches outside the UAE, marking a major step in the tournament’s international expansion strategy.
At present, the UAE remains the principal hub for international cricket in the Middle East, hosting Tests, ODIs, T20 leagues and ICC events, but PCB’s proposed venture with Saudi Arabia signals a potential shift in regional cricket dynamics.
Between 2010 and 2019, the UAE also served as Pakistan’s home venue for international cricket due to security concerns, and the PSL itself was launched in Dubai in 2016 before later expanding to Pakistan.
The Saudi proposal is therefore seen as part of a broader strategy to globalise the PSL brand, increase commercial opportunities, and tap into new cricket audiences in emerging markets across the Gulf region.
PCB remains confident that the collaboration will enhance cricket diplomacy and create long-term infrastructure benefits, though a final agreement, including financial and logistical details, is yet to be signed between the two boards as discussions continue in the initial stages of planning and feasibility assessment going forward strategically overall vision.
Pakistan Cricket Board in talks to build stadium in Saudi Arabia
