
Saudi Arabia's Sports Infrastructure Highlighted on National Day
Saudi Arabia marked its National Day by highlighting the significant transformation undergone in its sports infrastructure, driven by unprecedented support from its leadership and the Ministry of Sport. The Kingdom now boasts around 20 integrated sports cities, making it a prominent destination for hosting major international tournaments.
Several stadiums have played a key role in the Kingdom's sporting history. Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City (Al-Malaz Stadium) in Riyadh was established in 1969. It hosted the 1972 Arabian Gulf Cup and can accommodate over 20,000 spectators.
King Fahd Sports City in Riyadh, known as the "Pearl of Stadiums," was opened in 1987. With a capacity of 68,000 spectators, it hosted the 1989 FIFA World Youth Championship and the first three FIFA Confederations Cups.
Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam, which opened in 1973, is currently undergoing development for the 2027 Asian Cup.
King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, opened in 2014, is a modern, trackless stadium with a capacity of nearly 62,000 spectators. It has hosted major events like the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup.
Other notable stadiums include Prince Saud bin Jalawi Sports City in Al-Khobar, Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Sports City in Al-Ahsa, and Prince Naif Sports City in Al-Qatif.
Following the successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the Ministry of Sport has launched ambitious projects for new stadiums. King Salman International Stadium in Riyadh will be the main tournament venue, with a capacity of over 92,000 spectators.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium in Qiddiya will be a futuristic architectural masterpiece built into a cliff with a view of Tuwaiq Mountain.
The South Riyadh Stadium will combine modern and traditional elements inspired by the Salmani style.
NEOM Stadium is expected to be the most distinctive in the world, built at a height of over 350 meters within The Line and powered by wind and solar energy.
Other new stadiums include the ROSHN Stadium, New Murabba Stadium, and the Aramco Stadium. These projects reflect the Kingdom's commitment to building world-class sports infrastructure that combines innovation, sustainability, and cultural identity.