populous unveils saudi arabia's aracmo stadium, potential 2034 world cup venue

landmark stadium for saudi arabia unveiled

Populous, a practice renowned for its sports and entertainment architecture, has been confirmed as the lead designer for the Aramco Stadium and its surrounding masterplan in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia. The stadium, which will host games during the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, is also a potential venue for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

The Aramco Stadium will be a 47,000-seat venue designed to meet international standards for premier football competitions. Compliant with FIFA’s stadium requirements, the stadium will qualify to host World Cup matches up to the quarter-final stage. The project, led by Populous from its initial concept to final execution, is a potential venue for the 2034 World Cup.

images © Populous

populous draws from the coastal site

Saudi Arabia’s Aracmo Stadium and its masterplan will span approximately 800,000 square meters, incorporating a range of community amenities such as new sports facilities, retail spaces, entertainment zones, and public realm areas. The architects aim to achieve LEED Gold certification, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and inclusive design, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

Populous drew inspiration for the stadium’s design from Al Khobar’s coastal location on the Arabian Gulf. The stadium’s exterior features overlapping translucent sails, symbolizing the graceful rotation of waves and natural spiral motifs. These curved and proportioned sails allow natural light to flow into the stadium, creating a dynamic and sculptural facade.

The interior of the stadium reflects the spiral motif seen in the building’s exterior. Ramps and walkways guide spectators to the seating bowl, which has been designed elliptically to optimize natural ventilation. The seating bowl, developed by Populous’ specialist designers, offers uninterrupted views of the pitch for all spectators and can accommodate up to 55,000 people for concerts and other events. A cooling system enhances comfort for both players and spectators.

Populous is confirmed as the lead designer for the new Aramco Stadium in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia

aracmo stadium and its surrounding masterplan

At the heart of the Aracmo Stadium masterplan is a mixed-use development designed to transform the area into a year-round destination focused on ‘inclusivity and community engagement.’ The masterplan includes retail and entertainment zones, public spaces, and innovative features like digital sports and e-gaming hubs. A sports training center with two football pitches is also planned to support athlete training, competition, and recovery. Populous Consulting has developed a comprehensive business plan for Aramco Stadium, ensuring its sustained success beyond the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The plan, informed by data-driven insights and market research, focuses on visitor experience, community relations, and commercial viability, positioning the stadium as a long-term asset for the region.

Shireen Hamdan, Senior Principal and General Manager of Populous KSA, emphasized the significance of the Aramco Stadium: ‘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 recognizable. The design will become iconic in the football world and will be synonymous with Saudi Arabia’s vision to further develop Al Khobar into a global sports destination.’

a facade of translucent sails are inspired by the waves and spiral motifs of the Arabian Gulf