Riyadh, January 15, 2024, The Board of Directors of the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) has officially announced the launch of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium. This iconic multi-use venue is anticipated to enhance Qiddiya's philosophy of the "Power of Play" and is expected to host major sports, entertainment, and cultural events in Saudi Arabia.
Situated in Qiddiya City atop the stunning 200-meter-high Tuwaiq cliff, just 40 minutes from Riyadh, the futuristic stadium aims to revolutionize the traditional stadium experience. The immersive design and unique technological features will put spectators at the center of the show, making it a must-visit destination for visitors from around the globe.
Designed by the 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. This architectural innovation offers unparalleled versatility, allowing the space to transform into different "event modes" in a matter of hours. The LED wall will serve as a portal to live event broadcasts, high-definition films, and laser shows, providing guests with a novel, immersive experience during each visit.
The stadium will accommodate multiple events in a single day, including football, boxing, esports, concerts, and theater performances. Cutting-edge technology will provide fans with instant access to live data and information, including the use of state-of-the-art holographic technology for virtual interactions with celebrities and stars.
As a central venue in an urban entertainment district, the stadium promises an extended play experience with convenient access to Qiddiya City's vibrant Gaming & Esport District and other entertainment options. It will serve as the home ground for Saudi Pro League football clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr and is proposed as a venue for the Kingdom's bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The stadium, with its climate-controlled facilities, is designed for year-round events. An eco-friendly cooling lake built directly under the stadium will reduce energy consumption by using rainwater capture from the stadium and the surrounding area to pre-cool the air conditioning system.
With an estimated 1.8 million annual visits to the stadium and six million visits to other activities, it will play a key role in achieving Vision 2030's targets for a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and a forward-looking nation, driving tourism and creating jobs.
The unveiling of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium aligns with the broader vision for Qiddiya City to become a global destination for entertainment, sports, and culture, emphasizing the "Power of Play" philosophy. The concept leverages research showing the vital role of play in human cognitive development, emotional expression, social skills, creativity, and physical health. The stadium's launch follows the recent unveiling of Qiddiya City's world-first multi-use Gaming & Esports District, with additional announcements expected in the coming weeks.
