Riyadh Stadium to Receive Sustainable Redesign for 2034 World Cup

As part of Saudi Arabia’s preparations for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, global sports architecture practice Populous is leading the sustainable transformation of King Fahad Sports City Stadium, rethinking the landmark venue as a modern international facility while preserving the elements that shaped its identity. Working with the Saudi Ministry of Sports, Populous is retaining key features, including the East Stand and the stadium’s iconic “Hive” structure, while introducing new infrastructure, upgraded spectator facilities and a wider mixed-use landscape.

The design centres on reuse. The original roof canopy, which could no longer support the technical requirements of contemporary events, has been carefully reconsidered. Its structural masts and cables will be repurposed into photovoltaic shading structures over the parking areas, generating enough energy to support the stadium’s non-event operations.

The renovation extends beyond the bowl itself. A new lower seating tier will be created by excavating 10 metres into the ground, with the soil reused to form a landscaped public park around the stadium. The new destination will include a football academy, sports facilities, an amphitheatre, fan zones and commercial spaces, shifting the venue from a match-day destination into a year-round community hub.

"This project not only brings a beloved venue into the 21st century, but does so in a way that minimises environmental impact while preserving the stadium's legacy for future generations of Saudi spectators to create unforgettable memories," says Shireen Hamdan, Global Director and General Manager of Populous KSA.

Materials from the existing stadium will also continue their journey. The original hexagonal cladding will be integrated into new landscape terraces and utility buildings, while removed seats, sanitary fittings and lighting elements will be repurposed through community initiatives.

“There is no one-size-fits-all solution to sustainable design. Each project is unique and requires a tailored approach,” says Hamdan.

Climate response is another key part of the transformation. Populous has developed a cooling strategy tailored to Riyadh’s extreme temperatures, including deployable terrace covers that reduce heat absorption within the concrete seating bowl by up to eight degrees Celsius, improving comfort while reducing pressure on cooling systems.

Through a combination of preservation, adaptation and new public spaces, the project positions one of Saudi Arabia’s most recognisable stadiums for its next chapter.