JEDDAH/LAHORE: In a historic development for international sports, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have officially signed a strategic agreement to construct a modern, world-class cricket stadium in Jeddah.

According to an official announcement by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on X (formerly Twitter), the landmark deal was signed by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the head of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF), Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Mohammad Al Saud, during Naqvi’s official visit to the Kingdom.

“For the first time in history, a strategic agreement has been signed between the PCB and the SACF for the construction of a modern cricket stadium in Jeddah,” Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated.

Meeting ICC Global Standards

The PCB revealed that the upcoming stadium will feature state-of-the-art facilities designed entirely around the rigorous guidelines of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Key Highlights of the Partnership:

• Infrastructure & Expertise: Both cricket boards will collaborate deeply on infrastructure development, technical expertise, stadium planning, and high-level operational standards.
• Saudi Vision 2030: This mega-project will pave the way for Saudi Arabia to host major international cricket tournaments and global sports events, directly aligning with the Kingdom’s transformative Vision 2030.
• A Lasting Legacy: Highlighting the impact of the deal, Naqvi added, “The project is a milestone for the promotion of cricket in Saudi Arabia. This partnership will bring the cricket community together and become a lasting legacy.”

Strengthening Pak-Saudi Security Ties

Alongside the sports breakthrough, Mohsin Naqvi—in his capacity as Pakistan’s Interior Minister—met with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud.

As reported by state-run PTV, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tightening bilateral security ties. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on security cooperation was officially signed during the meeting, further cementing the deep-rooted strategic and brotherly relations between the two nations.