The UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are preparing a joint bid to host the 2035 or 2039 Rugby World Cup, marking a major step in the region’s growing involvement in global sports. The president of Asia Rugby, Qais Al Dhalai, has confirmed the bid, which aims to bring the prestigious tournament back to Asia for the first time since Japan hosted it in 2019.
Asia Rugby has pledged its full support for the bid, emphasizing the Middle East’s potential as a premier host destination. The organisation has urged World Rugby to consider multi-nation bids, a model that has been successful in football, including the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
A Bold Vision for Rugby in the Gulf
“As our leaders in the Gulf believe, nothing is impossible,” Al Dhalai told The Times. “I foresee this as something that might happen in 2035. If World Rugby works hard on this with a solid plan, it is achievable.”
He highlighted the readiness of stadiums across the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia to host a world-class event, stressing that a multi-nation model could transform the Rugby World Cup just as it has for football.
To accommodate the region’s climate, the proposed tournament would take place in December and conclude in January, ensuring optimal conditions for players and fans. This timing would require adjustments to the global rugby calendar, particularly the Six Nations tournament, which traditionally starts in February.
Gulf Nations Poised to Boost Rugby’s Global Appeal
Al Dhalai, who also serves as president of the UAE Rugby Federation, expressed confidence that hosting the Rugby World Cup in the Middle East would unlock unprecedented commercial opportunities for the sport. He pointed to the strong financial backing available in the region, citing existing partnerships such as Emirates Airlines’ sponsorship of World Rugby and the Dubai Sevens, as well as Qatar Airways’ recent investment in the United Rugby Championship.
“The Gulf is home to major corporations and sovereign wealth funds that are eager to invest in global sports. Rugby is already benefiting from this, and a World Cup in the region would be a game-changer,” Al Dhalai said.
A Transformative Opportunity for Rugby
While rugby is still in its developmental phase in the Gulf, hosting a World Cup would significantly accelerate the sport’s growth. Asia Rugby remains convinced that the commercial appeal and fanbase across the wider Asian continent would ensure a successful tournament.
The bidding process for the 2035 Rugby World Cup is set to begin within the next two years, with competition from European nations like Italy and Spain. The UAE and its Gulf partners will be making a strong case, not just as hosts but as key players in rugby’s global expansion.
(Source: Times)
