We raise this question to reach a clearer picture and facilitate understanding of the state of the sports industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the current year 2023.
It may be useful for those looking to establish sports club projects or even for owners of existing sports clubs...
In the time before 2019, sports clubs were primitive compared to what they have become today. While four years may seem like a short time to some to create this change, the reality proves otherwise on the ground. The clubs were divided into two types: men's and women's, and this division highlights the most significant differences.
Type One: You find comprehensive giant facilities and high-level equipment
The second type: There is no end to the discussion about the weakness of resources, the limitations of equipment, and the cramped facilities; however, this type was more financially viable, and this is a well-known fact.
But today, the two genders have become closer in various aspects, which is due to the increased level of sports awareness among both genders and the emergence of specialized sports such as bodybuilding, CrossFit, yoga, and others.
The period of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown may have been an important and pivotal reason for the rise in sports culture and a greater awareness of exercise and how to perform it. This has reflected in an increase in the number of athletes and a higher level of specialization than before.
It has now become difficult to attract clients to comprehensive clubs that have large, fully-equipped facilities such as a weight room, swimming pool, fitness area, relaxation space, spa, outdoor courts, and other services. The majority of clients have become specialized or at least lean towards a specific type of sport, whether they need a weight room, yoga, CrossFit, or other types of exercises.
Little by little, the gap between men's and women's clubs is fading away.
Find your direction and specialization, work on development, incorporate technology, and keep up with what your client sees daily on their mobile phone or through social media regarding the advancements in global clubs and competitors.
In addition to ensuring that the member feels like an integral part of your establishment by involving them in evaluating service levels and including them in your new options that you will add, improve your club's interaction on social media, and always stay current.
Written by: Abdulrahman bin Ibrahim Al-Huwaimel Responsible for Sports Club Relations at HU Sport Solutions Thursday 2023/04/27