Saudi Arabia Launches Radia to Build World-Class Venues

Saudi Arabia is betting big on sports, and now it has the global dream team to make it happen.

SURJ Sports Investment, backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, just launched Radia with entertainment powerhouse Live Nation and venue developer Oak View Group. The joint venture will transform how the kingdom builds and runs its stadiums, arenas, and sports complexes.

Radia will handle everything from early design sketches to opening day operations and beyond. Xavier Campbell, a seasoned sports executive who helped create the business model, will lead the platform as CEO.

Danny Townsend, CEO of SURJ Sports Investment, says the partnership positions Saudi Arabia at the forefront of venue innovation and fan experience. The goal isn't just building structures but creating places where unforgettable moments happen for generations.

Live Nation brings deep expertise from seven years of working in the kingdom since 2017. John Reid, the company's EMEA chairman, says they'll help create venues that work for everyone: artists, athletes, audiences, and the entire industry.

Oak View Group adds crucial know-how in turning venues into community anchors. Chris Granger, OVG's CEO, points out that world-class sports and entertainment spaces do more than host events. They create jobs, attract tourists, and give people places to celebrate and connect across generations.

The Ripple Effect

The timing aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia's 2026-2030 strategy, which places sports within its broader tourism and entertainment ecosystem. The kingdom's sports sector is projected to hit $22 billion by 2030, more than double its current size.

Beyond the numbers, Radia represents something bigger: infrastructure that creates lasting cultural impact. When venues succeed, they become gathering places where communities build shared memories and civic pride.

The partnership combines local knowledge with global experience, setting up Saudi Arabia to host world-class events while building a sustainable sports economy. It's infrastructure with purpose, designed to deliver today while creating opportunities for tomorrow.