Aramco, ROSHN to Build 47,000-Seat Stadium in Al Khobar

ROSHN has announced a partnership with ARAMCO to build the Aramco Stadium in Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

ROSHN is a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company and real estate developer. Authorities invest the PIF, a Saudi sovereign wealth fund, in projects for economic transformation and diversification away from petroleum wealth.

ARAMCO, meanwhile, stands for the Saudi Arabian Oil Group. It is a state-owned energy and chemical company.

Ready for national and international events

The Aramco stadium will have a seating capacity of 47,000. Authorities will construct it in the city of Khobar in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. It will span an area of 450,000 square meters.

In line with this, ROSHN and Aramco expect to complete building the stadium by 2026. This is to make it ready for both local and international events. Specifically, it should be finished in time for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup happening in January 2027.

In addition, the design of the Aramco stadium will take inspiration from the Arabian Gulf and the shape of its whirlpools. It will be suitable for both entertainment and sporting events, featuring cutting-edge facilities and amenities. Moreover, it will follow the highest standards to ensure safety, sustainability, and inclusiveness.

Aramco stadium: Developing the sports economy

The construction of the stadium underscores one of the pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which is to promote sports. Once the Aramco stadium is completed, authorities expect it to boost the country’s participation in international competitions and develop the sports economy.

The Aramco stadium is just one of the many stadiums Saudi Arabia is constructing for entertainment and sporting events.

Just recently, the kingdom announced the five cities it has proposed to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034. This includes the cities of Abha, Al Khobar, Jeddah, NEOM, and Riyadh. All in all, there will be 15 stadiums that will hold FIFA activities. Among these, 11 will be new stadiums.

The stadiums include the King Salman Stadium, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, and the King Fahad Sports City Stadium. This also includes the Jeddah Central Development Stadium, the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, and the King Khalid University Stadium. Last but not the least is the NEOM Stadium.

Just like the Aramco stadium, authorities hope to establish Saudi Arabia as a leading international sports hub. Hosting FIFA World Cup in 2034 will inspire generations to come.

“Together, we are working towards making Saudi Arabia’s dream of hosting the FIFA World Cup a reality, as outlined in our official bid book,” said Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal.

“These plans will combine our rich football heritage with our deep passion for the game and will ensure Saudi Arabia’s success as the first nation to host a 48-team tournament in one country,” he continued.

Photo: X/SPA Eng