Saudi Arabia Paid Exorbitant Amount to Host 2026 Royal Rumble in Riyadh

WWE officially announced that the 2026 Royal Rumble will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and this marks the first time the event will take place outside of North America. Unsurprisingly, Saudi Arabia ended up spending a lot of money to ensure the Rumble takes place in Riyadh.

According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Saudi Arabia was willing to pay over $55 million to secure a major WWE Premium Live Event like the Royal Rumble, SummerSlam, or WrestleMania. Therefore, the Rumble was ultimately chosen by Saudi Arabia.

WrestleMania being WWE’s flagship event, is particularly noteworthy. Meltzer believes that while it could create more revenue than any other show, hosting it in Saudi Arabia might create social backlash.

Metzer noted that starting with the Royal Rumble seemed like a strategic move, gradually normalizing the idea of major WWE events in the region. Meltzer points out that the biggest boxing matches already take place in Saudi Arabia, and fan acceptance has grown over time, suggesting WWE may follow a similar path.

Fans were already incredibly outraged after WWE confirmed the 2026 Royal Rumble will be taking place in Saudi Arabia. Despite the criticism, WWE’s events in Saudi Arabia have been highly profitable, showing the company’s commitment to its partnership with the country and so fans will simply have to accept it.

What are your thoughts on the Royal Rumble being hosted in Saudi Arabia for the first time? Do you think this is a bold step toward globalization or a misstep by WWE? Share your opinions in the comments below!