Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) has announced the construction of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, an “iconic multi-use venue set to further enhance Qiddiya’s philosophy of the Power of Play,” according to the group.

It is anticipated to host some of Saudi Arabia’s biggest sports, entertainment, and cultural events.

Located in Qiddiya City atop the 200m-high Tuwaiq cliff and 40 minutes from Riyadh, this futuristic venue aims to draw visitors from across the globe and revolutionise the traditional stadium experience with its immersive design and unique technological features, putting spectators at the centre of the show.

Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company said: “Our ambition is for Qiddiya City to become a global destination for entertainment, sports and culture and this iconic new stadium will be at its very heart. 

“The futuristic venue aims to reinvent the traditional stadium concept and embody the true spirit of Qiddiya’s Power of Play philosophy. It uses state-of-the-art technology and innovative, world-leading design to put the spectator at the centre of the experience. 

Designed by leading global architectural firm Populous, the stadium is set to be the world’s first fully integrated venue with a combined retractable roof, pitch and LED wall – an architectural innovation offering unparalleled versatility and allowing the space to transform into different ‘event modes” in a matter of hours. 

This LED wall will be a portal to live event broadcasts, high-definition films and laser shows, offering guests a novel, immersive experience with each visit. When not activated, it will open to reveal views of Qiddiya City.

“It will become a bucket-list destination for fans and enthusiasts across the world, hosting major events from across the world of sport and entertainment,” added bin Nasser Aldawood.

Guests will be able to enjoy multiple spectacles in a single day, including football, boxing, esports, concerts, and theatre performances providing fans with instant access to live data and information including the use of state-of-the-art holographic technology, enabling virtual interactions with celebrities and stars.As a central venue in an urban entertainment district, the area promises an extended play experience with direct and convenient access to Qiddiya City’s Gaming & Esport District as well as other city entertainment options.

Integrated into the city fabric through a variety of transportation choices including park ’n ride and drop-off zones, the stadium is also within direct proximity to 50,000 sqm. of shopping, dining and entertainment spaces as well as hotel accommodations.

Once open, the 45000 seat multi-functional stadium will serve as the home ground of Saudi Pro League football clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr and is one of the proposed venues for the Kingdom’s 2034 FIFA World Cup bid.

The venue will be able to host events all year-round in its climate-controlled facilities, where energy consumption will be reduced through an eco-friendly cooling lake built directly under the stadium. The lake will use rainwater capture from the stadium and the surrounding area to pre-cool the air conditioning system.

“There will be an estimated 7.6 million annual visits to the stadium, playing a key role in Vision 2030’s targets for a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation – driving tourism and creating jobs, explained QIC.

Image: Qiddiya