WWE is set to ramp up its controversial partnership with Saudi Arabia, as revealed in its 2026 event schedule. According to Fightful Select, WWE has planned three major live events in Saudi Arabia next year, marking the largest expansion for the company in the region.
Fans are already buzzing about the first event, the 2026 Royal Rumble, scheduled to take place in Riyadh in January. But that’s only the start—preliminary dates for two additional events in May and November 2026 are also reportedly in the works.
The November event has sparked speculation about the future of Survivor Series, one of WWE’s flagship annual shows, which traditionally takes place in the U.S. over Thanksgiving weekend. WWE insiders suggest that if Survivor Series moves to Saudi Arabia, the event will no longer occur during Thanksgiving, as talent won’t be expected to travel internationally during their holiday time.
Currently, WWE’s agreement includes hosting two Saudi shows each year, but the company appears eager to expand beyond that. Production efforts for the Royal Rumble are expected to ramp up soon, kicking off what looks like WWE’s most ambitious Saudi Arabia schedule to date.
What’s your take—should WWE hold three premium events yearly in Saudi Arabia, or is that too much? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Fan Take: This expansion could significantly reshape how and where WWE fans experience major events, signaling a strategic shift toward global markets. However, it also raises concerns about balancing traditional fan bases with new international ambitions and how WWE manages talent and holiday scheduling.
