Author: tafheemi

A decade before it hosts football’s World Cup, the size of the task facing Saudi Arabia is becoming apparent, including building stadiums, hotels and transport links. As the only bidder, Saudi Arabia was anointed host of the 2034 World Cup last October by FIFA. Infrastructure is the initial concern for the oil-rich kingdom, which is snapping up high-profile sports events in an attempt to sweep away its conservative image and entice foreign investment. Despite its oil riches, the world’s biggest crude exporter has much on its plate. It has committed to several other giant projects — including NEOM, a $500…