Promoting heritage through stadium design
Initiative description: In addition to implementing the stadium designs to reflect the cultural heritage of Qatar and the Arab region, disseminating educational materials about cultural aspects of stadium designs to visitors.
Unique stadium designs, that reflect the cultural heritage of Qatar and the Arab region, present a tremendous platform for exchange between locals and people from all over the world, enhancing cultural understanding and showcasing what the region has to offer.
Al Bayt Stadium, which hosted the opening match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, features a giant tent structure covering the entire stadium. The stadium takes its name from ‘bayt al sha'ar’ – tents historically used by nomadic peoples in Qatar and the Gulf region. The word Al Bayt also means “home” in Arabic, which signifies Qatar welcoming the world’s football fans to their home. This magnificent tent structure envelopes an ultra-modern football stadium, welcoming visitors into comfort as has been the tradition in this part of the world for centuries.
Lusail Stadium, the largest stadium, which hosted the final match of the tournament, is the centrepiece of the new ultra-modern Lusail City. Celebrating the region’s ancient tradition of craftsmanship, the stadium’s golden vessel design takes its inspiration from intricate bowls used across the Middle East for centuries. At night, the stadium’s lighting system gives the effect of twinkling lights, similar to the glow produced by local ‘fanar’ lanterns.
The design of Al Janoub Stadium represents the lines and flowing curves inspired by traditional ‘dhow’ boats.
Ahmad bin Ali Stadium includes façade features representing symbols of Qatar.
Al Thumama Stadium takes its shape from the regional woven ‘gahfiya’ cap worn by men in the Arab world. An integral part of family life and central to traditions, the gahfiya symbolises the coming of age for youth.
Stadium 974 (renamed from Ras Abu Aboud Stadium) took inspiration from the nearby container port and Doha’s long maritime history. In a first-of-its-kind pioneering solution in sustainable design, the stadium was made primarily from shipping containers. The stadium’s structure includes 974 shipping containers, while 974 is also Qatar’s country code. After the tournament, the 40,000-capacity stadium is expected to be completely dismantled, with its parts transformed into sporting facilities in Qatar and overseas.