Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for FIFA World Cup 2034: Ensuring Financial Viability and Risk Management in Stadium Construction

Abstract

This dissertation examines how traditional Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models can be adapted for mega-event infrastructure delivery in resource-rich contexts, using Saudi Arabia’s FIFA World Cup 2034 stadium development as a case study. Through comparative analysis of Brazil 2014’s traditional PPP failures and Qatar 2022’s government-led coordination success, this research identifies critical adaptation requirements for PPP implementation in resource-abundant institutional environments.

The research employs document analysis, institutional assessment, and comparative case study methodology to analyse Saudi Arabia’s distinctive capabilities through the Public Investment Fund (PIF), National Centre for Privatisation (NCP), and World Cup Authority 2034 (WCA34). The study develops practical implementation guidance addressing the unique challenges of mega-event infrastructure in contexts where financial constraints are minimal but strategic coordination is paramount.

Key findings demonstrate that resource-rich contexts require fundamental PPP adaptation, prioritising strategic value creation over traditional risk transfer mechanisms. Saudi Arabia’s institutional ecosystem, particularly PIF’s hybrid model with SAR 4 trillion target assets, creates conditions fundamentally altering traditional PPP dynamics. The research identifies three implementation models: Ministry-Owned (40%), Educational Institute (13%), and Semi-Government (47%) demonstrating sophisticated adaptation across the 15-stadium portfolio.

This research contributes to mega-event literature by providing systematic analysis of PPP adaptation in resource-rich contexts, addressing geographic and theoretical bias in existing scholarship. Practical contributions include implementable guidance for Saudi Arabia’s FIFA 2034 preparation and a replicable framework for other resource-rich nations pursuing mega-event hosting strategies.