FIFA has unveiled details of Saudi Arabia‘s ambitious plan to host the largest-ever edition of the world cup held in a single country. This announcement follows the Kingdom’s FIFA World Cup 2034 official bid book submission at an official ceremony held in Paris. With a slogan that reads Growing. Together., the publication proposes 15 advanced stadiums spread across five host cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and NEOM. Eleven of those stadiums reveal entirely new, planned designs, like the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium by Populous in Qiddiya. As for the remaining four, the Kingdom is planning on refurbishing and expanding existing sites to accommodate new programs and public capacity. Read on as we outline the complete list of stadium designs. 

all images courtesy Saudi Arabia FIFA World Cup™ 2034 bid

Situated within THE LINE, NEOM Stadium is expected to be one of the world’s most distinctive, iconic stadiums, with a pitch located more than 350 meters above ground to frame scenic vistas and a roof created from the city itself. It will leverage the most advanced technology for FIFA players, spectators, and broadcasters (e-ticket gates, 4K Ultra HD broadcasting, etc.) and hold a capacity of more than 45,000. The stadium will sit at the heart of a new sports-focused neighborhood adjacent to the Health and Well-Being District and the University, easily accessed from multiple levels in THE LINE.

NEOM Stadium will run entirely on renewable energy from wind and solar sources. Transportation systems will be entirely electric, with the five-minute walkability/accessibility urban model promoting travel on foot. Program-wise, the structure will be home to a men’s and women’s professional football club and a base for the club, fans, community activities, and major events.

NEOM Stadium

King Salman International Stadium is designed to become the highest-capacity stadium in Saudi Arabia and a major new center for sports and recreation. With the capacity to seat 92,000 visitors, the proposal envisioned by the team at Populous will be ideal to host the opening and final matches of the FIFA World Cup 2034. The proposed design blends into its surrounding topography with the terrain and natural habitat-forming part of the stadium’s roof. Aside from its aesthetic appeal, the design will provide effective shading and ventilation tailored to the desert climate.

Situated just minutes northeast of Riyadh, close to the airport, the KSI stadium will facilitate easy local and international access and become Saudi Arabia’s official national stadium. As the highest seated-capacity stadium in the country, it will also attract and accommodate the most significant national occasions, including the largest concerts and sporting events.

King Salman International Stadium

Also designed by Populous, the Qiddiya Coast Stadium, with a capacity of over 45,000, is designed to symbolize the dynamic relationship between people and water, energy, and matter. The design features undulating forms and a vibrant color palette reminiscent of the ripple effect of a ‘Mexican wave.’ It will be located on the northern shore of Jeddah, along the Red Sea, at the heart of the Qiddiya Coast Development. This area will also include other sports facilities and hotels within 1km. The precinct will have distinct spaces that seamlessly connect, providing ample gathering areas for fans and communities outside the stadium.

After hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034, the stadium will become a multi-purpose entertainment venue by taking out the upper tier to reduce the capacity to 25,000. With flexible features like curtains, partitions, and a removable football pitch, the venue can host esports events, exhibitions, concerts, conferences, and major sports tournaments.

Qiddiya Coast Stadium

King Fahad Sports City Stadium is notable for its unique fabric roof, which is inspired by traditional tents, and its elegant podium. This multi-purpose stadium serves as the home of the Saudi Arabian national football team and hosts Saudi Professional League (SPL) games, with an average attendance of around 23,000 at major events. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 58,000 and has hosted international sports tournaments and large entertainment events, including concerts and motorsports. It is set to be a venue for the AFC Asian Cup in 2027.

Plans for refurbishment by Populous aim to create an all-encompassing football city, increasing the stadium’s capacity to over 70,000. The stadium is well-integrated into the city and is located near attractions such as Wadi As-Sulai and the planned Sports Boulevard, which will provide access to green spaces and natural surroundings. Following the world cup, King Fahad Sports City Stadium will continue to serve as a multi-purpose venue for sports and entertainment, accommodating events such as football matches, concerts, festivals, and fairs.

King Fahad Sports City Stadium

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium will be a cutting-edge facility with a capacity of over 46,000. Designed by Populous to enhance the spectator experience, the stadium features a unique three-sided bowl that offers stunning views of the Tuwaiq cliffs. The building’s futuristic look is achieved through iridescent glass, LED screens, solar panels, and perforated metal. Located about 35 km southwest of Riyadh, the stadium is part of the larger Qiddiya development, which will include a variety of sports facilities, luxury accommodations, and 58 other attractions, making it a key sports hub for the city. An extensive public transportation network, including buses and rail systems, will ensure easy access from Riyadh and the Qiddiya area.

The stadium will then permanently serve as a versatile entertainment venue, hosting professional football matches, other sports events, concerts, esports competitions, and more, thanks to its retractable pitch. The venue will also feature an Olympic Museum, celebrating the country’s Olympic and Paralympic achievements.