Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sport City Stadium – design description

The project, developed by renowned architectural studio Populous, was originally part of Saudi Arabia's bid to host the 2027 Asian Cup. In the summer of 2024, it was also presented as one of 15 stadium proposals for the 2034 World Cup to be held in Saudi Arabia. New details were also provided on the occasion.

Although it was initially said that the project was for a complete reconstruction of the existing Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, which has been in existence since 1971, on the occasion of the publication of the “bid book” for the 2034 World Cup, it was stated that the facility would be built completely from scratch, adjacent to the old stadium.

The facility is to be built a piece north of the existing stadium, in the King Abdullah Park. Along with the construction of accompanying buildings, the implementation of the project will practically mean the elimination of this fairly young park – its opening took place on October 2, 2013, and previously the area was home to a horse racing track.

Since construction did not start on time, the stadium was ultimately not included in the final list of venues for the 2027 Asian Cup, and is to be built mainly with the 2034 World Cup in mind. After the tournament, the facility is expected to attract one of the professional football teams, as well as host more sports and cultural events.

The stadium will receive a striking facade inspired by the local architectural style, and inside there will be two-tiered stands in a football layout with a capacity of just under 47,000 spectators.