Saudi Arabia is making substantial investments in sports, with plans for a state-of-the-art stadium as part of its preparations for the World Cup 2034. FIFA is expected to confirm Saudi Arabia as the host later this year. The proposed stadium, named after the crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, boasts of being the “most modern in the world” and is set to accommodate 45,000 spectators on a 200-meter cliff.
The futuristic venue, located in Qiddiya, approximately 40 kilometres from Riyadh, aims to redefine the conventional stadium concept. It will feature a retractable roof and pitch, similar to the Santiago Bernabeu, and its standout feature is an enormous LED screen, spanning a staggering one and a half kilometres around its perimeter. Over 20 LED cubes will enhance the immersive experience for fans, described as “the most spectacular in the world.”
The investors, not disclosing the project’s cost but hinting at it potentially being the largest ever for a sports venue, emphasized the stadium’s multifaceted purpose. Beyond soccer, it will include an artificial lake at its base to mitigate environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation of the facility. This visionary project aims to revolutionize traditional stadium design and create a truly unique sporting and environmental experience.
