The King Salman Stadium designed by Populous, is set to become one of the largest and most important sports venues in Saudi Arabia. The stadium aimed to be completed by late 2029, will become the main venue for the Saudi Arabia national football team and will host a variety of international sports and entertainment events. Located in the northern part of Riyadh, adjacent to King Abdulaziz Park, the stadium is part of a broader plan that includes sports facilities, commercial spaces, and recreational areas, all aimed at creating a modern sports hub.
Key Features of King Salman Stadium
- Seating Capacity: Over 92,000 seats, making it the largest stadium in Saudi Arabia and one of the largest globally.
- Location: Situated on King Salman Road, near King Abdulaziz Park, offering a central location for both locals and visitors.
- Design Concept: Inspired by Saudi Arabia’s natural landscape, with each venue within the masterplan symbolizing a seed that grows into a vibrant structure.
- Event Flexibility: The stadium will host sporting and entertainment events, from national football matches to international tournaments, concerts, and more.
The stadium will also include a Royal Box, VIP and VVIP seating, skyboxes, internal screens, gardens, and a rooftop walking path providing views of the surrounding park. These features will enhance the experience for all visitors, from spectators to dignitaries.
A Community-Centric Masterplan
The King Salman Stadium is not just a sports venue; it is part of a larger master plan designed to serve the community year-round. The stadium will be at the heart of this plan, surrounded by facilities for sports enthusiasts, athletes, and the general public.
- Football Training Fields: High-quality facilities for player development at all levels.
- Aquatics Center: An Olympic-sized swimming pool, key for professional and recreational swimmers.
- Athletics Stadium: A space for track and field events.
- Indoor Sports Halls: These will accommodate sports such as volleyball, basketball, and padel.
- Community Sports Park: Designed to encourage participation from a young age, the park will provide a venue for local competitions and recreational activities.
- Commercial Facilities: The area will include retail spaces, fan zones, and restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.
The masterplan also includes a 9-kilometer sports track that will link these facilities, offering easy access to King Abdulaziz Park. This connectivity integrates the stadium into the broader urban environment, making it accessible to all.
Sustainable Design
The design of King Salman Stadium emphasizes sustainability and the integration of the stadium with the natural landscape. Green walls and roofs will connect the venue to surrounding green spaces, promoting sustainability while enhancing the aesthetic appeal. The design incorporates sustainable building practices to meet modern environmental standards.
The masterplan’s design is about creating a world-class stadium that blends architecture with nature. It aims to create a space where sports and nature coexist, offering both a functional venue and a space that connects the community to nature. This approach reflects a commitment to long-term development that benefits both the environment and the people who use the stadium and its facilities.
Stadium Design and Spectator Experience
One of the design goals for King Salman Stadium is to provide an optimal spectator experience. The seating bowl has been designed to be compact, creating a more intimate atmosphere for viewers. The configuration allows for excellent sightlines, ensuring that spectators have a clear view of the action.
- Seating Arrangements: The stadium will feature different levels of seating, with sections for Royals, VVIPs, VIPs, and general spectators. Hospitality areas will be located around the stadium, including skyboxes for a premium viewing experience.
- Spectator Flow: The concourse areas are designed to handle large crowds efficiently, ensuring smooth movement of people before, during, and after events. These areas will be accessible and barrier-free, providing access for all spectators, including those with disabilities.
The stadium is designed to meet FIFA standards, ensuring that it can host international football tournaments. However, its design also allows for other events, including concerts, athletics competitions, and more. This flexibility will make King Salman Stadium a key venue in Saudi Arabia’s sports and entertainment landscape for years to come.
Integration with Existing Infrastructure
King Salman Stadium will be fully integrated into the surrounding urban infrastructure, making it easy for visitors to access and navigate. The stadium is located near key roads and public transportation networks, ensuring that it is accessible to people from all parts of Riyadh.
In addition, the stadium’s connection to King Abdulaziz Park further enhances its role as a central feature in the city. The park will provide additional green space and recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors, helping to create a balanced urban environment that prioritizes both sports and community well-being.
Broader Impact on Saudi Sports and International Events
The King Salman Stadium and its associated masterplan will have a significant impact on Saudi Arabia’s sports culture. It will provide a venue for international events, enhancing the country’s ability to host major competitions and attract visitors from around the world. The stadium’s state-of-the-art facilities and capacity will ensure that Saudi Arabia can accommodate the largest and most prestigious events in the global sports calendar.
This project is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to build a world-class sports infrastructure and promote sports as a key component of its Vision 2030 plan. The stadium will not only serve as a hub for elite sports but also inspire participation at all levels, from grassroots to professional athletes.
Mark Craine, Senior Principal at Populous, emphasized the importance of creating a stadium that could serve as both a sports venue and a community space. He noted that the stadium was designed to be flexible, meeting FIFA standards for international football while also accommodating a variety of other events. The design integrates the surrounding landscape, ensuring that the stadium becomes part of the fabric of Riyadh rather than standing apart from it.
Conclusion
The King Salman Stadium is more than just a sports venue.It reflects Saudi Arabia’s focus on enhancing sports infrastructure and encouraging community engagement. As the stadium nears completion, it is poised to become an iconic landmark in Riyadh and a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s growing role in global sports.
Image source- populus.com, worldarchitecture.org, archdaily.com,
