黑料社区

黑料社区鈥檚 visionary World Cup stadiums: a new era in sports infrastructure

黑料社区鈥檚 visionary World Cup stadiums: a new era in sports infrastructure
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King Salman International Stadium. (supplied)
黑料社区鈥檚 visionary World Cup stadiums: a new era in sports infrastructure
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New Murabba Stadium. (Supplied)
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Updated 22 September 2024

黑料社区鈥檚 visionary World Cup stadiums: a new era in sports infrastructure

黑料社区鈥檚 visionary World Cup stadiums: a new era in sports infrastructure

黑料社区 has ushered in a remarkable transformation in sports infrastructure with plans for 15 stadiums as part of its FIFA World Cup 2034 bid.

At the heart of this ambitious project is the King Salman International Stadium in Riyadh, which is set to become the largest stadium in the Kingdom, with a capacity of 92,760, when it is completed in 2029.

The stadium design is based on harmony with the natural landscape, and incorporates elements from the surrounding environment into its roof, providing shading and ventilation essential for comfort in the desert climate. This venue is destined to host significant national events and concerts, as well as sporting contests.

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium is also set to open its doors in 2029 in the entertainment city of Qiddiya being developed on the outskirts of Riyadh. With a capacity of 46,979, this stadium features a unique three-sided design that offers breathtaking views of the Tuwaiq cliffs.




Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium. (Supplied)

Its aesthetic appeal is enhanced by the use of iridescent glass and solar panels, showcasing sustainable practices while providing a stunning visual experience. This venue will serve a dual purpose, hosting a variety of sporting events and cultural activities.

In the evolving sports scene, the New Murabba Stadium stands out as a community-focused venue, expected to be completed by 2032.

Drawing inspiration from the bark of the native acacia tree, this innovative stadium features customizable fan zones and spaces for diverse events beyond sports. The goal is to create an environment that fosters community connections and a sense of belonging.

The ROSHN Stadium, in southwest Riyadh, will have a capacity of 46,000, with a saddle-shaped seating bowl enhancing spectator comfort and encouraging social interactions. Surrounding amenities will promote cultural activities, making the stadium an integral part of the community.




ROSHN Stadium. (Supplied)

Meanwhile, the Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium, now under construction, is expected to be completed in 2027.

With a capacity of more than 46,860, this facility utilizes locally sourced materials and energy-efficient systems, including extensive solar panels.

After completion, it will serve as a home for a professional football club and host significant events, contributing to the local sports culture.




Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium. (supplied)

The South Riyadh Stadium, due for completion by 2032 and with a capacity of 47,060, reflects the principles of Salmani architecture, blending modern features with the rich architectural language of the region.

Drought-resistant landscaping and rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated in the design.




South Riyadh Stadium. (supplied)

In the innovative city of NEOM, the NEOM Stadium features a unique design placing the pitch more than 350 meters above ground, providing stunning vistas, and leveraging advanced technology for an unparalleled spectator experience.

Scheduled for completion in 2032 with a capacity of 46,010, this stadium will run entirely on renewable energy.




NEOM Stadium. (supplied)

The Qiddiya Coast Stadium in Jeddah, due to be completed by 2032, features a design that celebrates the relationship between people and water.

This versatile venue will hold 46,096 people, with its undulating form evoking the ripple effect of a 鈥淢exican wave.鈥

Sports, concerts, and community events will be held in the stadium, creating a space for gatherings and celebrations.

Among existing structures, the King Fahad Sports City Stadium remains a prominent venue in Riyadh. The venue is undergoing refurbishment to meet modern standards, and will have an expanded capacity of 70,200 by 2026.

Known for its distinctive fabric roof inspired by traditional tents, this multipurpose facility has hosted numerous international events and will continue to play a vital role in the Kingdom鈥檚 sports calendar.




King Khalid University Stadium. (supplied)

King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah is the second-largest stadium in 黑料社区, with a capacity of 58,432.

Often referred to as 鈥淭he Shining Jewel鈥 for its geometric architecture, it has been home to local football clubs and is set to undergo refurbishments to ensure compliance with FIFA requirements.

The King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh currently serves as a home for Al-Nassr football club, with plans for expansion ahead of major events.

Its capacity will increase to 46,000, modernizing the infrastructure, while preserving its historical significance.

Both the King Khalid University Stadium in Abha and the Aramco Stadium in Alkhobar are also undergoing renovations to enhance their capacity and facilities.

The Jeddah Central Development Stadium and the King Abdullah Economic City Stadium are designed to integrate community spaces, ensuring they serve as multipurpose venues after their renovations.




Qiddiya Coast Stadium (Supplied)

A focus of the new stadium designs is ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. Each venue will feature dedicated access seats, restrooms, and parking spaces to accommodate fans with a range of needs, demonstrating 黑料社区鈥檚 commitment to creating welcoming environments for visitors.

Moreover, the Kingdom鈥檚 new stadiums will play a vital role in promoting environmental responsibility through the integration of solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and the use of local materials.

Construction of these venues is expected to create thousands of jobs, stimulating local economies, and providing opportunities for community members.


KSrelief鈥檚 humanitarian activities continue in crisis-hit nations

KSrelief鈥檚 humanitarian activities continue in crisis-hit nations
Updated 03 August 2025

KSrelief鈥檚 humanitarian activities continue in crisis-hit nations

KSrelief鈥檚 humanitarian activities continue in crisis-hit nations

RIYADH: 黑料社区鈥檚 aid agency King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) continues its humanitarian activities in crisis-hit countries, particularly targeting vulnerable families and communities.

In Syria, it distributed 393 food parcels to displaced families from As-Suwayda Governorate to Daraa Governorate, benefiting a total of 393 families.

In Sudan鈥檚 Sennar State, it distributed 1,440 food parcels to displaced families in East Sennar, with 9,974 individuals benefiting from it as part of the 2025 Food Security Support Project in Sudan.

In Afghanistan鈥檚 Nangarhar province, 135 food packages were given to Afghan returnees from Pakistan. The returnees are now at Omari Camp of the Torkham border crossing.

In Wadi Khaled, Lebanon, more than 3,700 displaced Syrians and vulnerable families in the host community benefited from the 752 food packages given under the KSrelief initiative

Meanwhile in Yemen, 1,350 cartons of dates were distributed in Salh District of Taiz Governorate as part of the 2025鈥2026 date distribution project.

KSrelief also implemented a technical training program on air conditioning system maintenance in Aden with 20 beneficiaries taking part in specialized workshops.

The program aims to empower underprivileged communities by equipping them with technical skills that improve their economic prospects and facilitate their integration into the labor market.

Aside from trainings, KSrelief also provided psychological support to 333 individuals in Aden through counseling sessions and specialized training courses. The activities were aimed at promoting mental health and alleviating the psychological impact of crises in affected communities.


Saudi designers stitch heritage into handbags

Founder of Surrah Sara Alsaeed creates designs inspired by Al-Balad鈥檚 district. (Instagram/surrah.store)
Founder of Surrah Sara Alsaeed creates designs inspired by Al-Balad鈥檚 district. (Instagram/surrah.store)
Updated 02 August 2025

Saudi designers stitch heritage into handbags

Founder of Surrah Sara Alsaeed creates designs inspired by Al-Balad鈥檚 district. (Instagram/surrah.store)
  • Tradition meets innovation in the hands of creatives driven by cultural pride

RIYADH: A new generation of Saudi designers is redefining what fashion means by looking to the past. From traditional architectural motifs to sustainable materials, young creatives are crafting handbags that celebrate Saudi identity and craftsmanship.

In the heart of Jeddah鈥檚 UNESCO World Heritage Site Al-Balad, a brand was born 鈥 not just a result of leather and stitching, but of memory, home, and identity.  

For Sara Alsaeed, the founder of Surrah, it all began while walking through the district鈥檚 narrow streets.

Qormuz, founded by Abdulrahman Al-Abed, emphasizes sustainability through meaningful production. (Instagram/qormuz)

She told Arab News: 鈥淚 was surrounded by stories 鈥 textures on old walls, the colors of roshan windows, traditional architectural features used for balconies or windows in historic Jeddah, and the weight of history. That鈥檚 when I began sketching.鈥

Inspired by heritage and driven by elegance, she imagined a modern handbag that paid tribute to Saudi culture. 

From the curves of ancient architecture to the palette of historic homes, every detail was carefully considered. 

HIGHLIGHT

Through their work, Saudi designers ensure that their heritage does not just live on but thrives.

Even the name Surrah holds meaning. In classical Arabic it refers to a pouch or bundle 鈥 something personal and protective. It is a word still used in the Najd region, and for Alsaeed it captured the soul of her brand: deeply Saudi, beautifully intentional.

Handbags by Remah are crafted using vegan leather made from apples. (Instagram/remah.su)

Surrah began in late 2021 as a small stationery line during the pandemic.

She said: 鈥淚n my third year of university I had time to reflect. I noticed a lack of Saudi representation in local products. I wanted to create something that felt authentic, that honored our identity.鈥 

As tote bags became popular, the brand naturally evolved and shifted toward handbags with the Ashiq Collection, inspired by Jeddah鈥檚 architecture.

Sara Alsaeed, founder of Surrah, draws inspiration from Saudi heritage to create timeless handbags that celebrate the stories of Saudi women across generations. (Supplied)

鈥淓ach bag became a canvas, carrying pieces of our history in its design,鈥 she said.

Surrah鈥檚 mission goes beyond fashion, and Alsaeed added: 鈥淲e want to bring back the stories of Saudi women from the 1950s to the 1970s. To help young girls see where they come from 鈥 and to carry that heritage proudly into the future.鈥

While Surrah is proudly Saudi, its ambitions are global, and Alsaeed said: 鈥淎s the Kingdom supports local talent more than ever, we have a chance to share our culture with the world.

Hatem Abdullah, the designer behind Remah blends luxury, sustainability, and meaning鈥攃rafting vegan leather bags that embody strength, elegance, and purpose. (Supplied)

鈥淲e want people from different places to feel connected to our designs, to be curious about the stories they carry.鈥

On the other side of the design world, another brand is making waves 鈥 not just for its style, but for its philosophy.

Remah, founded by Saudi designer Hatem Abdullah, brings a fresh take on handbags that is both ethical and deeply personal. 

Abdulrahman Al-Abed of Qurmoz finds inspiration in forgotten corners of Saudi history, designing clothing that speaks through silence, heritage, and enduring materials.

鈥淚 was searching for something that reflected my identity 鈥 simple, luxurious, and meaningful,鈥 he said.

That search led him to vegan leather made from apples.

He explained: 鈥淚t鈥檚 not just an alternative to animal leather. It鈥檚 smart, luxurious, and environmentally conscious. Why create beauty at the cost of another living being?鈥 

For Abdullah, handbags are not limited by gender.

鈥淭hey are expressions of art, taste, and culture 鈥 I design for people who appreciate stories and craftsmanship,鈥 he said.

The name Remah, meaning strength, precision, and determination, was chosen intentionally. 鈥淲e design for women who know what they want 鈥 calm, confident, and graceful,鈥 he added. 鈥淓very piece embodies that spirit.鈥

Similarly rooted in cultural pride, another Saudi creative reshaping fashion is Abdulrahman Al-Abed, founder of Qormuz.

For him, inspiration comes from the forgotten, from 鈥渙ld walls, street conversations, and unfinished stories.鈥

He added: 鈥淚 find beauty in things that still smell like history. I don鈥檛 chase trends; I chase truth.鈥

Qormuz emphasizes sustainability through meaningful production. He chooses fabrics like camel leather, natural cottons, and camel hair 鈥 materials that are both durable and native to the region.

From Surrah鈥檚 heritage-rich designs to Remah鈥檚 sustainable elegance and Qormuz鈥檚 soulful silhouettes, Saudi designers are weaving history into every stitch.

Through their work these designers ensure that Saudi heritage does not just live on but thrives.

 


Dhi Ghazal Valley in Taif draws visitors with natural beauty and charm

Dhi Ghazal valley is a natural retreat, ideal for hiking, camping and picnicking. (SPA)
Dhi Ghazal valley is a natural retreat, ideal for hiking, camping and picnicking. (SPA)
Updated 02 August 2025

Dhi Ghazal Valley in Taif draws visitors with natural beauty and charm

Dhi Ghazal valley is a natural retreat, ideal for hiking, camping and picnicking. (SPA)
  • The presence of grape, fig and pomegranate orchards also adds charm to traditional highland farming practices

TAIF: Nestled in Al-Shafa, Taif, Dhi Ghazal Valley has become a popular gateway offering visitors scenic landscapes, local heritage and family-friendly recreation.

Just 5 km from Al-Shafa center, the valley is easily accessible by a mountain road lined with stalls selling fresh fruit and the city鈥檚 famous Taif roses, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Dhi Ghazal valley is a natural retreat, ideal for hiking, camping and picnicking. (SPA)

Tour guide Humaid Al-Sufyani described Dhi Ghazal as a natural retreat, ideal for hiking, camping and picnicking.

Khalid Al-Waqdani, an expert in mountain heritage, said the valley reflects Taif鈥檚 blend of nature and culture.

FASTFACTS

鈥 Taif鈥檚 Dhi Ghazal Valley is easily accessible by a mountain road lined with stalls selling fresh fruit and the city鈥檚 famous Taif roses,

鈥 Visitors can explore local beehives that produce the renowned Al-Shafa honey, marketed locally and at seasonal festivals as a staple of the region鈥檚 culinary identity.

鈥淭his offers visitors an authentic cultural experience, highlighting Taif鈥檚 role as a civilizational and tourism hub in the Kingdom,鈥 he said.

The region is known for its traditional agriculture. The local rose farms are celebrated in an annual festival attracting thousands of visitors, he added.

The presence of grape, fig and pomegranate orchards also adds charm to traditional highland farming practices.

Visitors can explore local beehives that produce the renowned Al-Shafa honey, marketed locally and at seasonal festivals as a staple of the region鈥檚 culinary identity.

The prized regional product is traditionally served to guests at social gatherings.

 


GCC chief receives DCO secretary-general in Riyadh

They discussed a number of proposed projects between the two sides, the General Secretariat said in a statement. (Supplied)
They discussed a number of proposed projects between the two sides, the General Secretariat said in a statement. (Supplied)
Updated 02 August 2025

GCC chief receives DCO secretary-general in Riyadh

They discussed a number of proposed projects between the two sides, the General Secretariat said in a statement. (Supplied)
  • They reviewed various topics related to technology and digital transformation in areas of common interest

RIYADH: Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi received Deemah Al-Yahya, secretary-general of the Digital Cooperation Organization, at the headquarters of the General Secretariat in Riyadh on Saturday.

During the meeting, they discussed a number of proposed projects between the two sides, the General Secretariat said in a statement.

They also reviewed various topics related to technology and digital transformation in areas of common interest.

Albudaiwi said that the GCC was 鈥渒een to unify efforts and enhance regional and international cooperation with other organizations in order to achieve their common goals,鈥 the statement added.

 


Salt solution boosts aqueous battery lifespan tenfold, KAUST study finds

Salt solution boosts aqueous battery lifespan tenfold, KAUST study finds
Updated 02 August 2025

Salt solution boosts aqueous battery lifespan tenfold, KAUST study finds

Salt solution boosts aqueous battery lifespan tenfold, KAUST study finds
  • The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Science Advances, show how water shortens battery life and performance

JEDDAH: Scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology鈥檚 Center of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Storage Technologies have identified a key molecular barrier preventing aqueous rechargeable batteries from becoming a safer, cost-effective option for sustainable energy storage, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Science Advances, show how water shortens battery life and performance 鈥 and how adding low-cost salts such as zinc sulfate can counter this effect, extending battery life more than tenfold.

鈥淎 major factor in battery lifespan 鈥 aqueous or not 鈥 is the anode, where energy-generating chemical reactions occur. However, parasitic reactions at the anode degrade it over time,鈥 the SPA reported. The study reveals that free water fuels these parasitic reactions, while zinc sulfate reduces free water levels, mitigating damage and improving performance.

Free water refers to water molecules not strongly bonded to others, making them more reactive. This state enables them to trigger unwanted reactions that consume energy and degrade the anode, according to the SPA.

鈥淥ur findings highlight the importance of water structure in battery chemistry 鈥 a key factor that has been largely overlooked,鈥 said Husam Alshareef, KAUST professor, center chair, and the study鈥檚 principal investigator.

Sulfate was found to stabilize the bonds of free water, acting as what the KAUST team describes as 鈥渨ater glue,鈥 altering water molecule dynamics to reduce parasitic reactions.

Most of the KAUST team鈥檚 experiments involved zinc sulfate-based batteries, but early results suggest sulfate has a similar stabilizing effect on other metal anodes. This points to a potentially universal solution for extending the lifespan of aqueous batteries.

鈥淪ulfate salts are cheap, widely available, and chemically stable, making our solution both scientifically and economically viable,鈥 said KAUST research scientist Yunpei Zhu, who led the experiments.

Aqueous batteries are attracting global attention as a sustainable solution for large-scale energy storage, with the market reportedly projected to surpass $10 billion by 2030.

Unlike the lithium batteries commonly used in electric vehicles, aqueous batteries 鈥渙ffer a safer, more sustainable option for integrating renewable energy sources like solar power into electrical grids 鈥 a key goal in 黑料社区鈥檚 energy transition,鈥 according to the SPA鈥檚 report.

KAUST professors Omar Mohammed, Osman Bakr, Xixiang Zhang, and Mani Sarathy also contributed to the study.