Stadium specialist Populous is designing Aramco Stadium, a new sports and entertainment venue in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia.
The new 47,000-seat Aramco Stadium is a potential venue for the 2034 FIFA World Cup and is scheduled to host games in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
The stadium and surrounding mixed-use area will be built on around 800,000 square metres. The plans include amenities and facilities to provide “an unparalleled sports and entertainment experience” with new sports facilities, retail areas, entertainment zones and public spaces, Populous said in a press release.
The interior and hospitality spaces will be created by interior design practice Jump Studios, a Populous company.
The surrounding area by Populous will become a year-round destination with innovative experiences like esports hubs.
Rhys Courtney, senior principal at Populous and lead architect for the project, said: “This world-class stadium development spans nearly a square kilometre, creating a seamless connection between the venue and the Sports City district.
“It will support elite-level sports, grassroots sporting activities and leisure opportunities. In terms of scale and facility offerings, this project is one of the most ambitious of its kind globally, underpinning Saudi Arabia’s ambition to make Al Khobar one of the world’s premier sporting destinations.”
Sports and entertainment experiences
Shireen Hamdan, senior principal and general manager of Populous KSA, said: “The Aramco Stadium development will create a world-class football venue capable of hosting top-tier international tournaments.
“The venue’s stunning setting on the shores of the Arabian Gulf has allowed us to develop a distinctive building form that is instantly and uniquely recognisable.
“The building’s open design invites the community to gather, celebrate and create lasting memories, making it a symbol of Al Khobar’s rich heritage and vibrant future.”
Earlier this month, plans were revealed for another new stadium on top of The Line at Neom. This and Aramco Stadium are two of 15 stadiums set to host games at the 2034 World Cup.
Images courtesy of Populous
