August 21 – Sports architecture firm Populous has unveiled its design for the $390 million Aramco Stadium project, which is set to become a key venue in Saudi Arabia’s 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The state-of-the-art 47,000-seater project is to be built in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, and was present in Saudi’s bid book for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and is scheduled to be ready by 2026, with fellow projects such as the Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium and Jeddah Central Development Stadium penned for completion a year later in 2027.
Upon completion, the stadium will become home to Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah Club, but is also scheduled to host AFC Asian Cup matches in 2027 as well as its obvious inclusion in the World Cup 2034 stadium roster.
A key aspect of the stadium is that it must be compliant with international standards for premier football competitions, as Saudi looks to establish Al Khobar as an international sporting destination ahead of their hosting of the 2034 World Cup.
The Aramco Stadium stands as one of three shiny new venues designed by Populous to host the World Cup in a decade’s time. In addition to Aramco Stadium, the architecture firm has been entrusted with designing the King Salman International Stadium, the largest in Saudi Arabia with a seating capacity of 92,000, as well as the eye-catching, multi-purpose Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium located in Qiddiya near Riyadh.
“The venue’s stunning setting on the shores of the Arabian Gulf has allowed us to develop a distinctive building form that is instantly and uniquely recognisable. The building’s open design invites the community to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories, making it a symbol of Al Khobar’s rich heritage and vibrant future,” said Shireen Hamdan, Senior Principal and General Manager of Populous KSA.
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