Stadium specialist Populous has released new concept images of its state-of-the-art esports arena at Qiddiya in Saudi Arabia.
The Populous-designed esports arena is part of Qiddiya City’s gaming and esports district. It will offer the largest combined amount of video screens of any esports arena in the world, as well as 4D haptic seats.
The 5,155-seat arena will be able to adapt to multiple experiences and events. Populous has carried out sightline studies to provide the best views in the main auditorium.
In addition, parametric design tools have been used to refine the locations of screens, with an innovative ‘digital chandelier’ placed in the centre of the arena.
The facility is designed to feel like a fantasy world. It includes a gaming arcade, a food ‘souk’, and a retail and immersive entertainment zone.
“We are proud to have been able to combine our extensive knowledge of esports facilities and technology with Qiddiya’s vision to create a world-leading arena for competitors and fans alike. This arena will be unique in esports in both scale and user experience,” said Rhys Courtney, senior principal at Populous EMEA.
Shireen Hamdan, senior principal and general manager of Populous KSA, said the arena is “a state-of-the-art esports venue that will serve as a centrepiece for this incredible global gaming hub”.
World-leading gaming arena for competitors
Populous is behind some of the world’s most advanced esports venues, including Esports Stadium Arlington, Fortress Melbourne, and the NBA 2K League Broadcast Arena.
Research conducted by Populous and YouGov in 2022 revealed that up to 29 percent of the Saudi national population is interested in esports.
Qiddiya’s 500,000-square-metre gaming district will feature four esports venues, as well as retail, dining and entertainment experiences.
With a combined seating capacity of 73,000, the district aims to attract up to 10 million visits each year.
Images courtesy of Populous
