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 will host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup™, 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. 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 will host the finals in 2022, 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 will give 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.
Other stadiums also draw on local themes and culture:
Ahmad bin Ali Stadium includes façade features representing symbols of Qatar.
Al Thumama Stadium takes its shape from the regional woven ‘gahfiya’ cap worn all around the Arab world.
The Stadium 974 takes 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 is made primarily from shipping containers. After the tournament, the 40,000-capacity stadium will be completely dismantled, with its parts transformed into sporting facilities in Qatar and overseas.