At the outset of the Al Thumama Stadium project, the client faced several challenges common to large-scale infrastructure endeavors, including tight timeframes to meet the 2022 World Cup schedule, coordination among multiple stakeholders, and the need for specialist expertise to ensure compliance with FIFA standards. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on integrating cultural elements into the design, reflecting Qatar's rich heritage while addressing environmental sustainability. The historical context of rapidly developing sports infrastructure in Qatar added pressure to deliver a facility that not only met international standards but also contributed to the social fabric, providing long-term benefits to the community. These concerns required a collaborative approach and innovative solutions from architects and engineers to achieve a successful outcome.
Al Thumama Stadium: A benchmark in sports facilities and community entertainment for Qatar.
Client
Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy
Year
2021
Size
120 000m²
Status
- Finished
The Al Thumama Stadium project originated as part of Qatar's vision to create a world-class sports facility for the 2022 World Cup, aiming to set a benchmark in sports infrastructure while fostering community well-being and entertainment. Situated in a location named after the indigenous Al Thumama tree, the stadium's design reflects cultural significance, with its facade inspired by the traditional "ghafiya" headpiece. Fenwick Iribarren Architects, alongside local Qatari architect AEB, were selected for their innovative design approach and expertise in sports architecture. Their commitment to cultural integration and sustainability helped them secure the project, leading to the creation of a versatile venue that would transform into a mixed-use leisure center post-World Cup, achieving GSAS Gold Environmental Certification.
The challenge.
Our added value.
The Al Thumama Stadium stands out as a unique and innovative project due to its culturally inspired design and commitment to sustainability. The facade, crafted from rhomboidal fiberglass pieces, mimics the intricate patterns of the traditional "ghafiya" headpiece, blending cultural heritage with modern aesthetics. The stadium's capacity to host 40,000 spectators, with a post-World Cup reduction to 20,000, showcases its adaptable design, ensuring long-term utility. The use of alternating translucent and opaque materials in the facade and roof allows for controlled natural light entry, reducing energy consumption and creating a striking nighttime appearance. The project's sustainable approach is further highlighted by its GSAS Gold Environmental Certification, achieved through energy-efficient systems and environmentally friendly materials. The stadium's transformation into a mixed-use leisure center, featuring a multi-sport pavilion, water sports center, boutique hotel, mosque, and retail spaces, reflects a forward-thinking methodology that addresses both immediate and future community needs, establishing it as a model for sustainable sports architecture.
