Saudi Arabia is a candidate for the 2034 World Cup. If successful, the Saudi government wants to build a futuristic new stadium on the bold 170km-long city in the desert, the Line.
The Line
Line itself is a horizontal skyscraper beyond imagination. The skyscraper is currently under construction is in northwestern Saudi Arabia. It is being built in phases and will take the shape of a mirrored rectangle in the desert, where up to 9 million permanent residents will live once completed. Just over half the population of the Netherlands in a large mirrored rectangle in the desert.
There are rumours that the original, ambitious length of the Line, 170 km (105 miles) to be precise, will be reduced. However, the World Cup confirms that Saudi Arabian authorities are determined to complete the first section by 2030. This first section will be 2.4 km long, 500 m high and 200 m wide. It will also run alongside a large artificial marina.
Neom stadium
Saudi Arabia wants to surpass regional rival Qatar with the World Cup. The so-called Neom Stadium is certainly a good way to do this. Few details are known at this early stage, but we know it will be installed on the top floor of the Line, at a height of 350 metres above the ground. The image from FIFA's bid book shows a futuristic-looking stadium. It will run entirely on renewable energy, mainly from wind and solar power. There will also be excellent transport links within the mirrored city to restaurants and hotels. But as in Qatar, heat remains an issue for spectators and players.
According to the bid book, the Neom stadium will be the most unique stadium in the world. With a pitch 350 metres above the ground, breathtaking views and a roof integrated into the city itself, the stadium will be an unparalleled experience. It will use state-of-the-art technology for players, spectators and media. The stadium will have a capacity of more than 45,000 people.
Neom Stadium is the most interesting of a total of 15 stadiums planned for Saudi Arabia's World Cup. Construction is due to start in 2027 and completion is expected in 2032.
