Zaha Hadid Architects Finishes Qatar 2022 World Cup Stadium
Designs inspired by the region’s sailing boats.
Zaha Hadid Architects has completed construction on the Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah, Qatar, after unveiling its initial renderings back in 2013. One of the eight sites of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the venue was the only one to be built from scratch after Qatar was selected as the host country. The stadium’s inaugural match was held on May 16 between Al Sadd SC and Al-Duhail SC where over 38,000 guests attended the opening ceremony, with a moving tribute to the late Zaha Hadid.
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— Road to 2022 (@roadto2022) May 16, 2019
Located on the coast, ZHA took design inspiration from the dhow, the traditional sailing vessels in the region, as well as the area’s storied culture. The retractable roof reimagines the hulls of the boat, providing shade and beams that mimic its structures, with unique textures borrowed from traditional Arabic motifs. The tapered facade of the location mirrors the dhow’s angular sails, while the off-white glossy finish takes cues from area’s sea shells. The lower level lattices and eaves are finished in a metallic bronze hue, which honors the artistry of Islamic craftsmanship.
Built to seat up to 40,000 people, the design could be modified to fit 20,000 in its legacy mode and will become home to the Al Wakrah Sport Club professional football team of the Qatar Stars national league.
