Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Capacity: 62,241
Inauguration Date: May 1, 2014
Opening Game: Al-Ahli SC 0–3 Al-Shabab
Pitch Dimensions: 105×68 meters
Surface: Grass
Home Teams: Al-Ahli SC, Al-Ittihad FC
League: ROSHN Saudi League
King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, commonly known as The Shining Jewel or simply The Jewel, is one of the premier football venues in the ROSHN Saudi League and one of the most iconic stadiums in the Middle East. Located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this state-of-the-art stadium is a centerpiece of the King Abdullah Sports City complex, designed to be a hub for various sporting events and cultural activities. With a seating capacity of over 62,000, the stadium hosts both Al-Ahli SC and Al-Ittihad FC, two of Saudi Arabia’s top football clubs.
The idea behind King Abdullah Sports City Stadium was to create a world-class sporting facility that would serve not just football but other sports and community events. Originally planned as a massive complex spanning 900 hectares with a main stadium holding 100,000 people, the project was later scaled down. The final complex occupies 300 hectares and includes the 60,000-seat stadium, a smaller 2,000-seat indoor arena, a training center, and a mosque.
Construction began in 2011, and the stadium was completed in 2014. Designed by Arup Associates, a global engineering and design firm, the stadium was carefully crafted to fit the local environment. Its orientation is unique, rotating 45 degrees west from the traditional north-south axis, allowing for better natural ventilation from the nearby Red Sea and more effective shade to combat the region’s hot climate.
The General Sports Authority owns the stadium, while Saudi Aramco manages its operations.
The stadium’s design is one of its standout features. It is meant to resemble a gem, reflecting the sun during the day and glowing at night thanks to its perforated cladding. The façade is covered in geometrical patterns, which represent traditional Saudi Arabian crafts. These patterns allow light to shine through, making the stadium visible from a distance, especially when it’s illuminated at night.
In terms of its structure, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium is built to withstand the harsh climate of the region. The westward rotation and a series of design elements help keep the stadium cooler and more ventilated. In addition, it boasts 25,000 parking spaces, making it easily accessible for fans attending events.
In EA SPORTS FC™ 25, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium is fully brought to life with its unique design and vibrant atmosphere. Players can experience different weather conditions that impact gameplay, from sunny afternoons to overcast evenings.
The attention to detail ensures that the stadium’s imposing architecture and crowd noise make every match feel like a major event, especially for fans of the ROSHN Saudi League teams.
King Abdullah Sports City Stadium is more than just a football venue; it’s a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s push to elevate sports within the country and globally. The stadium is a critical part of Saudi Vision 2030, a plan to transform the nation’s infrastructure, culture, and economy. By hosting major matches and events, The Jewel plays a role in promoting Saudi Arabia as a key player in the world of international sports.
Additionally, the stadium is regularly used for cultural events, concerts, and religious gatherings, reinforcing its place as a central hub for the people of Jeddah and beyond.
King Abdullah Sports City Stadium is a shining example of modern stadium design, combining practical architecture with cultural significance. Whether hosting Al-Ahli SC or Al-Ittihad FC matches or large-scale international events, it stands as one of the premier sports venues in the Middle East. The stadium’s futuristic design and prime location make it a must-see destination for football fans in EA SPORTS FC™ 25.
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