WWE Royal Rumble 2026 to Be Held in Saudi Arabia, Marking a Historic First
The event will be the first Royal Rumble staged outside North America, reflecting WWE's expanding global footprint and partnership with Saudi Arabia.
- WWE has announced that the 2026 Royal Rumble will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the Riyadh Season celebrations.
- This will be the first time the Royal Rumble is held outside of North America, with its only prior non-U.S. location being Ontario, Canada, in 1988.
- The event highlights WWE's growing international presence and deepening partnership with Saudi Arabia, which began with a 10-year deal in 2018.
- Saudi Arabia has hosted numerous WWE events, including Crown Jewel and Elimination Chamber, with record-breaking viewership and attendance reported for recent shows.
- The decision to host the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia has drawn some criticism due to ongoing concerns about the country's human rights record and its impact on WWE performers.