Saudi Arabia launches Dunes Legends League in continued bid to become cricket hub

With rising grassroots participation, new facilities, and strategic support from the ICC and ACC, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as cricket’s next frontier in the Gulf.

Officials shake hands during the Dunes Legends T20 League signing ceremony, marking a formal partnership announcement.

Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @cricketsaudi

A new step for cricket in the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia has officially launched a new T20 cricket league that brings together international stars and homegrown talent, marking a major milestone in the country’s growing investment in sport. The announcement came as part of a strategic collaboration between the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) and the South Asian Network.

The Dunes Legends League T20 aims to continue to position the Kingdom on the global cricket map while aligning with Vision 2030 objectives — promoting sports tourism, expanding private-sector participation, and developing new revenue streams through cricket. The league will serve as a key platform for nurturing local talent and increasing the sport’s visibility across Saudi cities.

Supporting Vision 2030 through sport

The launch of the league is part of SACF’s long-term strategy to build a sustainable cricket ecosystem and position Saudi Arabia as an emerging hub for the sport. As part of this effort, the league is expected to play a pivotal role in expanding cricket’s footprint across multiple Saudi cities, offering fans and communities greater opportunities for engagement.

“The Dunes Legends League T20 is a milestone in our journey to advance cricket in Saudi Arabia,” said Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud, in an official statement at the launch of the Dunes Legends League T20.

He added, “It highlights national talent, engages the private sector, and supports Vision 2030 through new revenue opportunities and wider reach across the Kingdom.”

By hosting the competition in various cities, the organizers aim to promote sports tourism and community interaction while simultaneously giving Saudi cricketers access to professional-level training and exposure alongside international stars.

A global-local fusion of cricketing excellence

The league will feature a unique blend of world-class cricket legends and Saudi players, creating a dynamic and high-caliber playing environment. This professional setup is intended to accelerate the development of domestic athletes, attract corporate interest, and build long-term value in the Kingdom’s sports economy.

Dr. Tuan Roshan Hassim, chairman of the South Asian Network, emphasized the significance of the partnership in an official announcement at the launch of the Dunes Legends League T20: “We are honored to partner with Saudi cricket on this forward-looking initiative that celebrates the Kingdom’s growing sports ambition and delivers a world-class cricket experience for fans in Saudi Arabia and beyond.”

With private sector empowerment, talent development, and economic diversification at its core, the Dunes Legends League T20 marks a defining moment for Saudi cricket — and signals the Kingdom’s intent to become a serious player in the global cricket landscape.

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