01 August 2024
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City and the Saudi Ministry of Sport have announced the unveiling of the designs and plans for the King Salman Stadium and its sporting facilities as one of the world’s largest sports arenas.
Situated in northern Riyadh along King Salman Road next to King Abdulaziz Park, the stadium is strategically located close to King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh Metro station, and major roadways, ensuring easy access from all parts of the city.
It will serve as the Saudi national team’s main headquarters and host major sporting events and activities. The stadium also aims to back sports and athletes and develop the sector.
Covering over 660,000 sq m, King Salman Stadium and its sporting facilities comprise a range of amenities for various sports activities, as well as commercial centres and recreational areas.
The main stadium will have a seating capacity of 92,000 and feature a 150-seat royal suite, 120 hospitality suites, 300 VIP seats, and 2,200 dignitary seats, stated an SPA report.
Sustainable cooling systems for the audience seats and stadium floor, along with extended indoor screens for spectators, indoor gardens, and a walking track with a scenic view of King Abdulaziz Park atop the stadium will offer visitors an exceptional experience.
The general plan for King Salman stadium includes multiple surrounding sports facilities spanning over 360,000 sq m, including two training fields as well as fan zones, a closed sports hall, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, an athletics track, and outdoor courts for volleyball, basketball, and padel tennis.
These facilities cater to all age groups and are interconnected by a 9-km-long sports track surrounding King Abdulaziz Park.
The design of King Salman Stadium and its sporting facilities has been approved, with completion scheduled for Q4 of 2029, said the SPA report.
Among several proposals submitted by six specialised international companies, the chosen design draws inspiration from the mountainous landscape, integrating with King Abdulaziz Park through a valley that intersects the surrounding stadium garden and green spaces.
“The main stadium’s architectural design includes green walls and ceilings spanning over 96,500 sq m, drawing inspiration from local urban structures and aligning with environmental sustainability and green building standards,” said a spokesman for the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.