As Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the Kingdom’s vision for the tournament extends far beyond simply providing a stage for football’s grandest event. The stadiums being built for this landmark occasion are set to create a lasting legacy that will redefine the future of sports infrastructure. A total of 15 stadiums will be developed, including 11 new constructions and 4 refurbished venues—each designed with cutting-edge technology, sustainability in mind, and a focus on creating immersive experiences for fans.
These stadiums are not only about hosting the World Cup—they are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to elevate the Kingdom as a global sports hub, boost tourism, and foster long-term social and economic growth. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout venues that will play a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 World Cup:
1. King Salman International Stadium – Riyadh
- Seating Capacity: 92,000
- Key Features: Largest stadium in Saudi Arabia, opening and final matches, national stadium.
The King Salman International Stadium will be the centerpiece of the 2034 World Cup and the largest stadium in the Kingdom. Located in Riyadh, this colossal venue will have a seating capacity of 92,000 and is designed to host both the opening ceremony and the final match. This stadium will not only be a premier location for global football tournaments but also become Saudi Arabia’s official national stadium. Its immense size and state-of-the-art facilities will set a new benchmark for stadium design. It’s expected to be completed by 2029.
2. NEOM Stadium – NEOM (The Line Project)
- Seating Capacity: 46,000
- Key Features: Elevated location, panoramic desert views, part of the The Line project.
Located in the futuristic NEOM development, NEOM Stadium is set to take sports architecture to unprecedented heights. Built as part of The Line, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious linear city project, this stadium will sit 350 meters above ground and offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and the futuristic city skyline. With a seating capacity of 46,000, the NEOM Stadium is more than just a football venue; it represents the Kingdom’s vision to revolutionise urban living, making it a must-visit for sports fans and tourists alike.
3. Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium – Riyadh
- Seating Capacity: 47,000
- Key Features: Iridescent glass, LED screens, solar panels, multi-use facilities.
Another standout venue in Riyadh, the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium will feature a seating capacity of 47,000. This modern marvel will be a showcase of innovative design, combining iridescent glass, large LED screens, and solar panels to create a sustainable and visually stunning venue. The stadium will be part of a larger sports complex, including luxury accommodations and 58 entertainment attractions. Post-World Cup, it will continue to serve as a multi-functional venue, hosting sports, concerts, e-sports, and even housing an Olympic Museum, creating a dynamic space for the Kingdom’s entertainment and tourism sectors.
4. Aramco Stadium – Dharan
- Seating Capacity: 46,000
- Key Features: Community hub, business, and tourism integration, ready by 2026.
The Aramco Stadium, with a seating capacity of 46,000, is set to be a major venue for the 2034 World Cup and also for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Already under construction, the stadium will be completed by 2026. It will be part of a larger mixed-use development, surrounded by business districts, tourism hubs, and community spaces. The stadium’s design emphasizes integration with its surroundings, becoming a center for community engagement, as well as a focal point for Saudi Arabia’s growing sports tourism sector.
5. Jeddah Central Development Stadium – Jeddah
- Seating Capacity: 45,000
- Key Features: Mixed-use development, community hub, multi-event venue.
Located in Jeddah, the Jeddah Central Development Stadium will offer 45,000 seats and be surrounded by four vibrant villages, each featuring a mix of leisure, retail, educational, and medical facilities. This design concept aims to create a community hub that caters to both residents and visitors. Post-World Cup, the stadium will continue to serve as a venue for various events such as conferences, concerts, and other entertainment activities, ensuring its long-term relevance and contribution to the local economy.
Beyond Football: Building a Legacy for Saudi Arabia
While these stadiums are being built with the 2034 World Cup in mind, they are also part of a larger strategy to create a sustainable and thriving sports ecosystem in Saudi Arabia. Many of these venues are being developed in conjunction with broader urban and tourism projects that focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and the long-term economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious event.
For example, the NEOM project not only promises to transform the urban landscape but also aims to become a global hub for innovation, sustainable living, and tourism. Similarly, the King Salman International Stadium and other venues will feature cutting-edge technologies such as solar panels and energy-efficient systems to align with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Legacy of the 2034 World Cup
The stadiums for the 2034 World Cup will set new standards in design, functionality, and sustainability, transforming the sporting landscape of Saudi Arabia. More than just places to watch football, they will become cultural landmarks and hubs for entertainment, business, and tourism.
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 World Cup is poised to leave a lasting legacy that will not only showcase the Kingdom’s modern architectural prowess but also serve as a platform for economic development, social engagement, and international collaboration.
By investing in world-class stadiums and infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is laying the foundation for a vibrant, sustainable future for sports and entertainment, making the 2034 World Cup a key milestone in the country’s Vision 2030 journey.
Saudi Arabia’s 2034 FIFA World Cup will feature some of the most innovative and sustainable stadiums ever seen at a global sports event. From the towering NEOM Stadium to the King Salman International Stadium, each venue promises to be a symbol of the Kingdom’s commitment to sports, tourism, and sustainability. As the nation prepares to host the world’s biggest sporting event, these stadiums are set to provide unforgettable experiences for fans and create a legacy that will benefit the Kingdom for decades to come.
