National Athletics Stadium project continues to gather pace as authorities in Riyadh prepare to release a major construction tender for the landmark venue. The $1.8bn development will anchor the sports district within Qiddiya while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s long-term Vision 2030 infrastructure ambitions.

The National Athletics Stadium project has entered a decisive procurement phase as tender preparations advance toward contractor engagement. Consequently, industry players anticipate a competitive bidding process involving leading international and regional construction firms with stadium delivery expertise.

Moreover, the project carries an estimated value of $1.8 billion positioning it among Saudi Arabia’s flagship sports developments. Developers aim to appoint a contractor capable of delivering complex structural systems alongside high-performance athletics infrastructure.

In addition, the tender reflects broader progress across Qiddiya, where multiple assets are moving toward construction readiness. Therefore, the stadium will emerge as a central component of the city’s integrated entertainment and sports offering.

National Athletics Stadium project design draws from London Olympic Stadium

The National Athletics Stadium project will deliver a multipurpose venue inspired by the design principles of the London Olympic Stadium. Accordingly, planners are prioritizing flexibility, allowing the stadium to host athletics competitions, concerts, and large-scale events efficiently.

Furthermore, the design emphasizes spectator visibility, optimized seating arrangements, and seamless crowd circulation. Engineers will incorporate advanced structural frameworks to support a lightweight yet durable roof system, enhancing environmental performance.

At the same time, the stadium will integrate digital technologies that elevate fan engagement and operational efficiency. These systems include smart ticketing, real-time analytics, and broadcast-ready infrastructure tailored for global sporting events.

Additionally, sustainability features remain central to the design strategy. Developers plan to implement energy-efficient systems and water-saving technologies, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s environmental targets while reducing lifecycle costs.

National Athletics Stadium project strengthens Qiddiya’s global positioning

The National Athletics Stadium project reinforces Qiddiya’s ambition to become a global destination for sports, culture, and entertainment. As a result, the development will attract international events while supporting domestic sports development programs.

Meanwhile, the stadium will integrate into a wider masterplan that includes theme parks, motorsport facilities, and cultural venues. This holistic approach enhances visitor experience and ensures strong commercial viability across multiple sectors.

In addition, the project will stimulate economic activity through construction, supply chain engagement, and long-term operations. Contractors, consultants, and suppliers will benefit from significant opportunities tied to the stadium’s delivery.

Importantly, the project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil. By investing in world-class sports infrastructure, authorities aim to boost tourism, create jobs, and elevate the Kingdom’s global profile.

Similarly, Saudi Arabia continues to expand its sports infrastructure pipeline with parallel developments such as the $1 billion Aramco Stadium project, which is currently under construction in Al Khobar. The venue will host matches during the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, highlighting the Kingdom’s coordinated push to deliver world-class stadium assets across multiple cities.

Project Fact Sheet

Project Name: National Athletics Stadium project

Location: Qiddiya, near Riyadh

Project Value: $1.8 billion

Project Type: Multipurpose athletics stadium

Client/Developer: Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC)

Current Status (2026):

• Pre-construction stage
• Main construction tender preparation underway

Scope of Works:

• Stadium bowl construction and structural systems
• Athletics track and field facilities
• Seating, hospitality, and VIP zones
• Roofing and façade systems
• Smart stadium and digital infrastructure
• Sustainability and energy-efficient systems

Design Inspiration: London Olympic Stadium

Key Features:

• International-standard athletics venue
• Multipurpose event capability
• Advanced spectator experience systems
• Integrated entertainment district connectivity

Estimated Timeline:

• Tender release: Expected soon
• Contract award: Pending
• Construction start: Post-award
• Completion: To be confirmed

Project Team

Project Owner: Qiddiya Investment Company

Government Oversight and Strategic Authorities:

• Public Investment Fund
• Saudi government entities supporting Vision 2030 delivery and infrastructure expansion

Development and Investment Partners:

• Strategic investment and infrastructure partners (regional and international financiers expected)
• Private-sector partners supporting Qiddiya masterplan execution

Project Management:

• To be appointed following tender award
• Likely participation of international project and cost management consultancies

Design and Engineering Consultants:

• International stadium architects and sports infrastructure designers
• Structural, civil, and MEP engineering consultants
• Specialist athletics facility planners aligned with global competition standards

Main Contractor: To be selected through competitive international tender

Specialist Contractors and Technical Partners:

• Structural steel and long-span roofing contractors
• MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) contractors
• ICT and smart stadium systems providers
• Façade engineering and stadium seating specialists

Sports and Regulatory Bodies:

• World Athletics
• International Olympic Committee
• Asian Athletics Association
• Saudi Arabian Athletics Federation

Supply Chain and Technology Partners:

• Construction materials suppliers
• Smart infrastructure and digital systems vendors
• Sustainability and energy solution providers