Saudi Arabia is making waves not only for its luxurious projects but also for revitalizing its sporting sector. Crown Prince MBS is transforming the Kingdom one project at a time, and the world watches in anticipation. From Neom to Qiddiya and numerous megaprojects on the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia is poised to revolutionize luxury tourism and raise the bar in global sports. The nation, currently the only bidder for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, has proposed 16 potential stadiums. Some are established, while others are nearing completion or still in the design stages. The aim is clear—the country is ready to expand its sporting empire. Let’s take a closer look at the magnificence awaiting sports enthusiasts and world travelers in Saudi Arabia:
Sports Stadium King Khalid University Project
This state-of-the-art sports stadium is located in Abha, spearheading a development initiative to improve educational, medical, and social services in the region. Constructed by Sea Harvest Contracting Company, this stadium is a key facility in Abha for hosting various sports events.
King Fahd Sports City
Currently under renovation, the King Fahd Sports City in Riyadh spans 500,000 square meters. The stadium, characterized by its massive, tent-like roof structure, has a seating capacity of 58,398 spectators. Designed by Schiattarella Associati, it is expected to reopen in 2026.
ROSHN Stadium
This 45,000-seat stadium covers 450,000 square meters in Southwest Riyadh. Besides being a hub for sporting events, it will house various shops, restaurants, and hospitality venues. The structure’s avant-garde crystalline design makes it a standout.
New Murabba Stadium
Located in Downtown Riyadh, this 45,000-capacity stadium, owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), features an Acacia tree-inspired design. Set to be completed by 2032, this 19-square-kilometer project will include a museum, an immersive theater, and more than 80 entertainment and cultural venues.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium
Astonishingly created atop a 200-meter-high Tuwaiq cliff in Qiddiya, this groundbreaking venue is a multifunctional masterpiece by Crown Prince MBS. With a seating capacity of 45,000, the stadium, designed by Populous, features a retractable roof, pitch, and LED wall. It also includes climate-controlled facilities, an eco-friendly cooling lake, and sits amidst 50,000 square meters of shopping, dining, and entertainment spaces.
NEOM Stadium on The Line
Pushing the limits of human imagination, the Neom Stadium is perched 350 meters above the ground atop The Line. With a beehive-like structure, the stadium will accommodate 46,000 spectators, run entirely on renewable energy, and feature modern amenities like e-ticket gates and 4K Ultra HD broadcasting.
Juxtaposed next to The Marina, the stadium will offer an unparalleled experience. Construction is planned to start in 2027 and be completed by 2032, just in time for the 2034 World Cup.
Aramco Stadium
Located in Al Khobar, the Aramco Stadium shines with a capacity of 47,000 spectators, making it ideal for hosting local and international games. The whirlpool-like design will feature recreational and retail spaces and is expected to be completed and operational by 2026. The stadium is set to host its first match in 2027 during the Asian Cup.
King Abdullah Sports City Stadium
Dubbed “The Jewel,” this multi-use stadium, located 30 kilometers north of Jeddah, has a staggering capacity of 62,241 spectators. The stadium has hosted the Greatest Royal Rumble event in 2018 and matches of the prestigious 2023 FIFA Club World Cup. It is set to host the Next Generation ATP Finals. An icon of the sporting world, the venue also boasts a 10,000-seat indoor sports hall, a 1,000-seat outdoor athletics stadium and track, three football pitches, four five-a-side pitches, six tennis courts, and athletics warm-up facilities.
King Salman Stadium
Ambitious and outstanding, this Middle Eastern mega-stadium can house a whopping 92,000 enthusiasts. Designed by architecture studio Populous in Riyadh, the King Salman Stadium is the largest in the Kingdom. Among its many impressive elements are a 150-seat royal suite, 120 hospitality suites, and 2,200 dignitary seats.
Moreover, there is a walking track to enjoy uninterrupted vistas. Smaller sporting facilities dot the stadium, such as an arena, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, an athletics track, and outdoor courts. This marvel is scheduled for completion in 2029.
