Saudi Arabia Begins Probe Following Worker Death at World Cup Stadium

An investigation has been initiated after the death of Muhammad Arshad, a foreman from Pakistan in his mid-30s, at the Aramco Stadium site, which is under construction for the 2034 World Cup. This incident marks the first known fatality associated with the World Cup construction.

Arshad fell to his death on March 12 while working on site. Details have emerged that raises concerns about labor rights in Saudi Arabia, prompting reactions from human rights organizations.

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal stated that the incident is being taken very seriously and a thorough investigation is underway. Al-Faisal commented, “Every incident we take seriously, we file an investigation, we look at what went wrong.”

Arshad’s unfortunate death resonates with broader concerns regarding the treatment of migrant workers, following similar issues that surfaced during the 2022 World Cup preparations in Qatar. Activists have been vocal about the potential human rights abuses surrounding construction projects in the region, which need urgent attention.

In a separate account, Arshad’s father expressed the emotional toll on the family, highlighting the long-term impact. Legal requirements for compensation following such accidents appear not to have been fulfilled in this case.

The concerns surrounding worker welfare and safety continue as Saudi Arabia stands on the brink of hosting a major international event.