Saudi Arabia, Against All Odds, Implements Its Architectural 'Giga-Projects' 0 15

New images have been released from Saudi Arabia showcasing the construction of the multifunctional stadium of Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Qiddiya, which is considered a potential venue for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The stadium, named after Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is located in the entertainment district of Qiddiya and will feature a retractable roof and field.

One side of the stadium features a massive retractable LED wall that will be used to broadcast live events, movies, and laser shows. When opened, it provides a view of the stands surrounding the field and the 200-meter Tuwaiq cliff on which the stadium is situated. This will be the world's first fully integrated complex with a combined retractable roof, field, and LED wall — an architectural innovation that ensures unprecedented versatility and allows the space to be transformed for different event formats in just a few hours.

Digital screens will cover the external surfaces of the geometric building, which seems to grow from the cliff in stepped blocks.

Around the stadium, towers with sports and entertainment spaces will be constructed, connected by internal streets also covered with LED screens that will guide visitors to viewing platforms at the edge of the cliff.

The stadium is part of Saudi Arabia's bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034: the architectural firm Populous has designed the 45,000-seat arena in accordance with FIFA requirements. It will serve as the home ground for the Saudi Professional League football clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, but will also host a wide range of sports, entertainment, and cultural events, including boxing, esports, concerts, and theatrical performances.

Construction is taking place west of Riyadh, and Qiddiya is among 14 'giga-projects' aimed at developing tourism in Saudi Arabia. The complex is wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund.