In an ambitious stride toward positioning Saudi Arabia as a global sports hub, international architecture firm Populous has revealed plans for the King Salman Stadium and its extensive master plan in Riyadh. Slated for completion by 2029, this iconic development aims to be a centerpiece for both national and international events, supporting Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
A Vision Rooted in Growth and Heritage
Located along King Salman Road, next to King Abdulaziz Park, the project is centered around a massive 92,000-seat stadium. The architectural concept draws inspiration from Saudi Arabia’s natural landscapes, symbolizing growth and progress. The design team envisions the stadium and its surrounding structures as “seeds emerging from the earth,” reflecting the country’s dedication to fostering sports and recreation.
Meeting FIFA Standards and Enhancing Spectator Experience
Populous, with over 40 years of global expertise in designing world-class venues, has ensured that the King Salman Stadium meets all FIFA requirements, enabling it to host top-tier international matches. As the new home of the Saudi national football team, the stadium will also accommodate a variety of sporting and entertainment events.
Spectators can expect an immersive experience, thanks to a carefully designed seating bowl that brings fans closer to the action. The venue will feature premium amenities such as a Royal Box, hospitality skyboxes, lounges, and tiered seating options for VVIPs, VIPs, and general attendees. A rooftop walking path will offer breathtaking views of King Abdulaziz Park, while indoor gardens and digital screens will enhance the overall atmosphere.
Mark Craine, Senior Principal at Populous and Lead Architect for the project highlighted the project’s ambitious nature:
“This stadium has been designed to host matches at the highest level of international tournament football, while also being flexible enough to accommodate a range of events. It seamlessly blends architecture with the surrounding landscape, creating a new sporting hub for Riyadh.”
A Holistic Masterplan with Community and Sustainability in Focus
Beyond the stadium, the master plan introduces a range of sports and leisure facilities designed to engage the local community and promote year-round activity. These include:
- An athletics stadium
- Football training pitches
- An aquatics center with an Olympic-sized pool
- A multi-purpose indoor sports hall
Community amenities also feature parks and courts for basketball, volleyball, and padel. A 9-kilometer sports track weaves through King Abdulaziz Park, connecting various facilities and creating vibrant recreational spaces even on non-event days.
Sustainability is at the heart of the design. Green walls, rooftop gardens, and a connecting valley harmonize the stadium with its natural surroundings. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also promote environmental stewardship. Shireen Hamdan, General Manager of Populous KSA, emphasized the commitment to sustainable development:
“Our design philosophy balances cutting-edge infrastructure with a deep respect for the connection between human activity and the natural world.”
Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Sporting Ecosystem
The King Salman Stadium is part of a broader initiative to bolster Saudi Arabia’s sports infrastructure, joining other landmark venues like the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium and King Fahad International Stadium. Together, these projects signal the country’s growing investment in sports and its ambition to become a global player in the world of athletics.
As the world turns its attention to Saudi Arabia’s evolving sports landscape, the King Salman Stadium stands as a beacon of the nation’s aspirations, blending innovation, community engagement, and sustainability in one groundbreaking project.
All Images: © Populous
