Saudi Bids for 2034 FIFA: A Look at the Proposed Venues

REM TIMES takes a peek into the different cities and stadiums that could play host to FIFA World Cup 2034 if the Kingdom wins the bid

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has bid to host what it promises to be the largest-ever FIFA World Cup in a single country. At a recent FIFA ceremony in Paris, the Kingdom submitted a bid book in which it has underlined its plans as the potential host of FIFA World Cup 2034.

As per the bid, KSA will host the World Cup across five cities and construct 11 new stadiums and renovate four existing ones over the next decade. While eight out of the 15 stadiums are located in the capital Riyadh, four are located in Jeddah with one each in Al-Khobar, Abha and NEOM.

Here are more details on the cities and stadiums that may play host to the international championship if the nation wins the bid.

Riyadh

The Saudi capital of Riyadh will host the matches across eight stadiums. The opening and final matches will be held at the new King Salman Stadium, which is set to open in 2029 and can accommodate over 92,000 spectators thereby becoming the largest stadium in the nation.

With its futuristic designs, triple-tiered stands and expansive views of Tuwaiq cliffs, the city’s Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium too comes close to King Salman Stadium in terms of design and is guaranteed to amaze sports-lovers during the tournament. The well-known King Fahad Sports City Stadium, which will also host the AFC Asian Cup in 2027, is all set to be refurbished too to accommodate over 70,000 spectators.

The other stadiums in the city include New Murabba Stadium, ROSHN Stadium and South Riyadh Stadium, all of which are slated to be completed in 2032.

Jeddah

Reflecting a deep connection with the local culture and environment, the new Jeddah Central Development Stadium will incorporate traditional architectural motifs with cutting-edge technology and accommodate over 45,000 spectators.

Another venue in the city located 60 kms north is the King Abdullah Economic City Stadium, whose designs are inspired by the coral reefs of the Red Sea. Part of a larger development that offers vast green spaces for spectators, the venue will transform into a recreational space for hosting games, concerts, and exhibitions post the tournament.

With a capacity of 45,000 spectators, Jeddah’s Qiddiya Coast Stadium is yet another cutting-edge venue located along the scenic Qiddiya coastline which is scheduled to host the event.

Al Khobar

The new Aramco Stadium boasts a capacity of 45,000 and will be situated along the Arabian Gulf coast with easy access via public transport, bike paths, and pedestrian walkways. Designed by Foster + Partners, its high-tech, whirlpool-inspired design of the space reflects the local Dawwama phenomenon through overlapping sail shapes and wave motifs that integrate seamlessly with the coastal environment. Post FIFA 2034, the venue will transform into the home of a professional football club, featuring training facilities, retail and commercial spaces.

Abha

Situated southeast of Abha City, King Khalid University Stadium which currently accommodates 22,000 spectators, will be refurbished to accommodate over 45,000 spectators during the tournament. The renovation will also introduce a new west stand and modernize the infrastructure, while retaining the venue’s historical charm.

NEOM Stadium

Already creating headlines for being an architectural marvel, Saudi’s urban mega real estate project NEOM will also play host to the football tournament. The NEOM Stadium will be located within the 170 km long linear city – The Line and run entirely on renewable energy. With its pitch being 350m above ground, the stadium promises to seat 46,000 people. Construction of the stadium will begin in 2027 and the work is all set to be completed in 2032.