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Sports Infrastructure Development & Optimization in Saudi Arabia

Issues
The client was a public-sector sports infrastructure authority overseeing the development, operation, and optimization of sports facilities nationwide. Its responsibilities included supporting professional sports, community participation, and event hosting while ensuring cost efficiency and long-term asset sustainability. With increasing capital investment in facilities, the client sought to optimize utilization, reduce operational inefficiencies, and ensure infrastructure aligned with evolving demand patterns across regions and sports categories.
Solution

A sports infrastructure development and optimization strategy was designed to align facilities with demand, improve operational efficiency, and maximize long-term value. The solution introduced standardized design principles, centralized performance monitoring, and lifecycle asset management frameworks. Public-private partnership models were embedded to enhance operational excellence and financial sustainability, while ensuring accessibility and inclusivity across regions.

Approach

The engagement approach included:

  • Nationwide mapping of facility supply, demand, and utilization
  • Assessment of operating costs and maintenance practices
  • Development of standardized multi-sport facility design guidelines
  • Introduction of centralized booking and performance dashboards
  • Lifecycle asset management and capital planning integration
  • Evaluation of PPP and outsourcing models for operations

This enabled data-driven infrastructure optimization.

Recommendations:

Recommendations included:

  • Expand multi-use facility concepts across regions
  • Prioritize underserved areas in future investments
  • Implement centralized facility management platforms
  • Standardize maintenance and lifecycle planning
  • Strengthen private sector participation in operations
  • Embed sustainability and energy efficiency standards

These actions supported long-term infrastructure value.

Engagement ROI

Facility utilization increased by approximately 30–40%, while operating costs declined by 15–20% through improved asset management. Capital efficiency improved, reducing redundant investments and extending asset lifecycles. Enhanced accessibility supported higher participation rates and improved readiness for national and international events, delivering strong economic and social returns.