Saudi Arabia`s Minister of Sport, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, has announced an investigation into the death of a worker at a 2034 World Cup stadium construction site. Local authorities are reportedly taking the matter “seriously” as concerns rise regarding workers` rights in the Gulf nation.
Muhammad Arshad, a Pakistani foreman in his mid-30s, tragically died on March 12 at the Aramco Stadium site in Al Khobar, according to reports. Arshad fell from an upper level of the construction site, marking the first known fatality related to the construction of the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia. While the official hosting rights were awarded in December, FIFA`s prior decision in October 2023 had already effectively designated Saudi Arabia as the host.
Minister Al-Faisal stated that every incident is taken seriously and undergoes investigation to identify and rectify any failures in the system. Speaking before the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, he acknowledged the unfortunate occurrence of such incidents in construction. He emphasized the immediate initiation of an investigation, system checks, and reinforced supervision with contractors to prevent future incidents at Aramco Stadium and ensure commitment to worker safety.
Human rights organizations have voiced strong criticism of FIFA`s decision to grant Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup hosting rights, particularly concerning the welfare of migrant workers involved in construction and the impact on local communities.
A joint statement from Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and others in December highlighted ongoing evidence of migrant worker exploitation, racism, suppression of peaceful activists, discrimination against women and LGBTI individuals, and forced evictions for state projects. They warned that without urgent action and comprehensive reforms, the 2034 World Cup risks being marred by widespread repression, discrimination, and exploitation.
In Arshad`s case, concerns have been raised that his employer, Belgian construction firm Besix Group, may not have fully adhered to Saudi law following his death. Reports indicate that Arshad`s family, including his three young children, had not yet received legally mandated compensation in the days after his death. Furthermore, there are allegations that workers at the Aramco Stadium were instructed to delete any videos or images related to Arshad`s death and refrain from discussing the incident.
Arshad`s father expressed the family`s devastation and shock, emphasizing the long-term impact on the lives of Arshad`s children, whose sole source of income was his. The family now faces the responsibility of providing for their living and educational needs.
These concerns about working conditions in Saudi Arabia emerge after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where numerous migrant worker deaths occurred during stadium construction. While Qatari officials reported only three work-related deaths and 37 non-work-related deaths, estimates suggest the actual number could be significantly higher. A 2021 report estimated over 6,500 worker deaths during Qatar`s World Cup stadium construction, though the precise figure remains disputed.
Minister Al-Faisal claims Saudi officials have learned from the Qatar experience. He mentioned discussions with Qatari officials and ongoing communication with FIFA to prioritize worker safety, acknowledging the significant impact of worker welfare on the perception of the World Cup.
FIFA has not yet issued a statement regarding Arshad`s death.
