Qatar’s home of football, Khalifa International Stadium, was built in 1976 before being redeveloped for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
The stadium reopened in May 2017 when it hosted the Amir Cup final; in the process becoming the first tournament-ready venue for the World Cup.
Here, we take a closer look at the venue that is set to host eight matches during this year’s tournament, which will be held from 20 November to 18 December.
Here are 7 facts you must know about the redeveloped Khalifa International Stadium:
1. Dual Arch Design
The Stadium is known for its magnificent dual arches. Below them, a wide canopy has been developed which complements the stadium’s innovative cooling technology. LED lights have also been added to boost the exterior of the venue.
“When we talk about Khalifa Stadium, we’re not just talking about a stadium. We’re talking about one of Qatar’s iconic symbols that lies in the hearts of residents and citizens, who have witnessed multiple tournaments in this stadium,” said Ahmad Al Thani, Khalifa International Stadium venue manager.
2. Stadium’s capacity
The stadium will host 40,000 fans during Qatar 2022.
3. Easy accessibility
Located 11km from central Doha, the project is part of Qatar Sports City – a famous sporting complex featuring Aspire Zone, Aspire Park, Aspetar sports medicine hospital, and Villagio Mall.
“Fans who attend matches at Khalifa will have lots to enjoy. As soon as the match ends, they can easily walk to Aspire Zone and enjoy its various facilities,” added Al Thani.
4. The Legacy
Khalifa International Stadium will remain a focal point for Qatari football in the future.
“Khalifa will continue to host future matches and major tournaments. I hope we continue to amaze the world with our state-of-the-art facilities,” said Al Thani.
5. Sustainability
Khalifa International Stadium was the first Qatar 2022 venue to achieve Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification. The stadium’s wide roof canopy supports the state-of-the-art cooling system and helps maintain a comfortable temperature for players and fans.
6. Main Contractors
The Khalifa International Stadium project was managed by Projacs. Midmac Contracting Co. WLL and Six Construct were the main project contractors.
7. Renovation of the Stadium
The renovation of the stadium, which began in 2014, was undertaken by Aspire Zone Foundation in partnership with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC). It included increasing the stands of the east wing of the stadium, increasing the seating capacity to 48,000, adding hospitality and VIP suites, constructing a sports museum (3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum), installing a state-of-the-art roof to cover all stands in the stadium, in addition to the installation of cooling technology that will keep the field to an optimum 26 degrees year round, using 40% less energy than conventional stadium cooling tech.
