Dave Meltzer noted in the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that WWE is set to expand its relationship with Saudi Arabia by increasing the number of Premium Live Events (PLEs) in the country in 2026.
In addition to the Royal Rumble PLE scheduled to take place in Riyadh on January 31, 2026, WWE will also host two other PLEs in Saudi Arabia that year.
Meltzer mentioned that WWE has received $55 million per PLE held in Saudi Arabia since the start of their deal with the country in 2018, with Saudi Arabia paying significantly more than that amount for the Royal Rumble.
This year, WWE held only one PLE in Saudi Arabia, which was Night of Champions. That event featured John Cena defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk. Crown Jewel, typically held in Saudi Arabia, took place in Perth, Australia, this year.
WWE has also announced that WrestleMania 43 will be held in Saudi Arabia in 2027, and there are rumors suggesting that the company might eventually consider moving WrestleMania there permanently.
It remains unclear whether the additional two PLEs planned for Saudi Arabia in 2026 will be Crown Jewel and Night of Champions, or possibly other events. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
