Saudi Arabia unveils plans for a sky-high football stadium at 350 meters elevation
Saudi Arabia unveils plans for a sky-high football stadium at 350 meters elevation

Saudi Arabia unveils plans for a sky-high football stadium at 350 meters elevation

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RE+D magazine
22.10.2025

Saudi Arabia aims to redefine the future of sports architecture with its ambitious plan to build the world’s first "sky stadium" — a stadium in the sky — named NEOM Stadium, within the futuristic city of "The Line".

The stadium will be located approximately 350 meters above ground, making it one of the most visually striking and ambitious sports structures ever designed.

The NEOM Stadium will have a seating capacity of around 46,000 spectators and will operate entirely on renewable energy sources, aligning with the broader sustainability goals of the NEOM megaproject.

Seamlessly integrated into the unique vertical urban landscape of The Line, the stadium will be accessible exclusively via autonomous vehicles and high-speed elevators, with no connection to the traditional road network.

Construction is expected to begin by 2027, with a target completion date of 2032, ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2034, for which Saudi Arabia has been officially confirmed as the host nation. According to the official bid, NEOM Stadium is expected to host matches up to and including the quarterfinal stage of the tournament.

If completed as planned, the NEOM Stadium will stand as a global technological and architectural landmark, representing a bold fusion of innovation, sustainability, and futuristic design—placing Saudi Arabia at the forefront of next-generation sports infrastructure.

NEOM Stadium is one of 15 venues planned for the FIFA World Cup 2034, distributed across five major regions: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and NEOM. Of these, eight are brand-new constructions, while four involve major upgrades of existing facilities. The total investment in stadium infrastructure is expected to exceed $20 billion, forming a central part of the country’s strategy to develop world-class sports and event facilities.