JEDDAH: The FIFA World Cup kicked off late last night and fans across the Kingdom gathered to celebrate at local cafes that have prepped for the event weeks in advance to welcome football enthusiasts.
With the tournament being held in the US, Mexico and Canada, most games will start late at night or in the early hours of the day in Saudi Arabia given the time 7.5 hour time difference.
However, cafes are still optimistic that they will pull fans in for live screenings and a lively atmosphere, and that they will witness an increase in revenues.
Large high-definition screens have replaced old ones, while sound systems have been upgraded to ensure every cheer, whistle and goal can be heard clearly. Walls and tables have been decorated with the flags of participating nations.
Mayas Alsaygh, who runs Hoot Coffee House in Al-Zahra district with his two brothers, spoke to Arab News about their cafe’s preparations.
