Saudi Arabia: a “stadium in the sky” perched 350 meters above the desert

ByMuhammad

Saudi Arabia continues to shake up the codes of world sport. On social networks, the NEOM Stadium project is already making waves: a stadium suspended 350 meters above the desert, presented as the first “sky stadium” in the world. According to several specialist sources, the enclosure – entirely powered by solar and wind energy – could accommodate up to 46,000 spectators. Its construction should start in 2027 and be completed in 2032, right in time for the 2034 World Cup, which the kingdom is the only one to organize after the official acceptance of its candidacy. But behind the spectacular ambition, some observers denounce an excess that is difficult to justify. In a region facing significant social and environmental challenges, building a stadium suspended in the air raises the question: what meaning can be given to such a project, other than that of a futuristic showcase intended to strike people’s minds? Between technological dream and ostentatious excess, the debate has only just begun. A new symbol of Saudi strategy, which intends to establish itself sustainably as an essential power in international sport.

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Muhammad

Muhammad is a visionary thinker and passionate writer who has been contributing to Understanding Islam for several years.