As Saudi Arabia formally finalizes its bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, it has revealed a plan that could reshape the history of the tournament—proposing the largest-ever World Cup held within a single country. The blueprint includes 15 cutting-edge stadiums strategically spread across five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and not-completed-yet NEOM—with 11 brand new stadiums and four refurbished existing venues.
While FIFA has yet to officially confirm Saudi Arabia as the host nation, it is widely expected to do so by December, as no other country has submitted a bid for the global event. The Kingdom’s 2034 FIFA bid book showcases striking renderings of the proposed stadiums, each a blend of architectural innovation and cultural homage. Take a look at the jaw-dropping stadium concepts below.
King Salman International Stadium (Riyadh)
Set to become Saudi Arabia’s new national icon, this colossal 92,000-seat stadium is poised to be the centerpiece of the tournament, likely hosting both the opening ceremony and the final. Designed by the renowned architecture firm Populous, the stadium will feature innovative shading and natural ventilation systems.
King Fahd Sports City Stadium (Riyadh)
Opened in 1987, this iconic stadium is undergoing a transformation that will expand its capacity from 58,000 to 92,000 while retaining its signature tensile roof, inspired by traditional Bedouin tents. The revitalized stadium is scheduled to reopen in 2026, well ahead of the World Cup.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium (Riyadh)
Named after the Crown Prince, this ambitious project by Populous will feature a striking three-sided design, with the fourth side offering panoramic views of the Tuwaiq cliffs. The 46,979-seat venue will utilize cutting-edge materials, including iridescent LED glass and metallic finishes, creating an immersive experience for spectators. Completion is expected by 2029.
New Murabba Stadium (Riyadh)
Inspired by the bark of native acacia trees, this 46,000-seat stadium will be located in northwestern Riyadh. After the World Cup, it will transform into a versatile venue for concerts, gaming, and outdoor dining.
ROSHN Stadium (Riyadh)
Resembling something from a sci-fi blockbuster, the 46,000-seat ROSHN Stadium will feature a saddle-shaped seating bowl for optimal shading and ventilation, parabolic geometry for acoustic brilliance, and a glowing, crystal-like structure at night.
Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium (Riyadh)
Currently under construction and set to open in 2027, this stadium will play a pivotal role in Riyadh’s broader urban master plan. With a capacity of 46,865, it will be built with a focus on sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.
South Riyadh Stadium (Riyadh)
With construction not expected to start until 2029, not a great deal is known about this stadium so far, except that it has legacy plans that will connect to the Green Riyadh Project and serve as a major venue for sports and community events post-2034 World Cup.
King Saud University Stadium (Riyadh)
Home to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, this existing stadium will expand its capacity from 25,000 to 46,000 for the tournament. After the World Cup, it will revert to 33,000 seats, continuing to serve university teams and community events.
King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (Jeddah)
Jeddah’s flagship stadium, a venue rich with football history, will be modernized to meet FIFA’s stringent standards and integrate the latest technology.
Qiddiya Coast Stadium (Jeddah)
The continued expansion of Jeddah as a global sporting destination of note will have a lot to do with the construction of the Qiddiya Coast Stadium. Located on the Red Sea coast, the 46,000-seater will serve as a dynamic, multi-purpose venue post-2034 World Cup, adaptable for sports, e-sports, concerts, and conferences. The venue is set to start construction in 2029 and be completed by 2032.
Jeddah Central Development Stadium (Jeddah)
Drawing inspiration from traditional Al Balad architecture, this new stadium will be equipped with futuristic technology, including a retractable roof and 360° LED screen. Surrounded by integrated villages offering diverse amenities, it will be ready by 2027.
King Abdullah Economic City Stadium (Jeddah)
According to the official bid text, the stadium seating will feature an organic design inspired by Red Sea coral reefs. With a capacity of 45,000, it will also serve as a multifunctional hub with hotels, mixed-use spaces, and a sports clinic. Post-2034 World Cup, the stadium will host football, concerts, and exhibitions, while the precinct will offer expansive green areas and community spaces for residents.
Aramco Stadium (Khobar)
With construction already underway, this new stadium near the Kingdom’s north east city of Khobar is an important part of Saudi’s current phase of the growing football in the country. Once completed – expected to be in 2027 – the stadium will be able to host up to 46,000 spectators.
King Khalid University Stadium (Abha)
Located southeast of Abha City on the university campus, this stadium is current in use. However, with a current capacity of 22,000, it will undergo some refurbishment to temporarily expand it to over 45,000 seats. As the stadium is situated close to Dalaghan Park nature reserve, refurbishment plans will need to both modernize the infrastructure while maintaining the stadium’s historical and ecological value, which will include building a new permanent west stand with upgraded technology.
NEOM Stadium (NEOM)
The NEOM Stadium, planned for the futuristic coastal city, will be an integral part of the ambitious 170-kilometer-long linear metropolis known as The Line. Early designs indicate that this stadium will be built atop The Line, with the pitch elevated approximately 350 meters above ground level. Positioned at the core of The Line’s sports-centric district, near the Health and Well-Being District and the University, the stadium will be easily accessible from multiple levels.
NEOM’s commitment to cutting-edge technology is reflected in the stadium’s design, which will be powered entirely by renewable energy sources like wind and solar. The transportation systems around the stadium will be fully electric, with the city’s five-minute accessibility model encouraging pedestrian movement. The stadium itself will serve as the home for both men’s and women’s professional football teams, as well as a hub for fans, community activities, and major events.
