Heerim Design's 'Altumama Stadium' Hosts First World Cup Match on 22nd

'Altumama Stadium' view / Photo by Qatar World Cup official website

[Asia Economy Reporter Noh Kyung-jo] The 'Al Thumama Stadium,' designed by Heerim Architects & Planners, has unveiled its grandeur with the opening of the '2022 Qatar World Cup,' the first World Cup held in the Middle East.

According to Heerim on the 21st, Al Thumama Stadium is the only stadium among the eight Qatar World Cup venues designed by a domestic company. Located 12 km south of central Doha, Qatar, it spans from one basement level to five above ground, with a seating capacity of approximately 40,000. Starting with the Senegal vs. Netherlands match on the 22nd, group stage matches, round of 16, and quarterfinals will be held here.

The design of Al Thumama Stadium was inspired by the traditional men's headwear called 'Gahfiya,' worn throughout the Middle East. The stadium was designed to appear as if floating above the ground to enhance spectator accessibility, and considering the local climate, Heerim explained that state-of-the-art cooling systems were installed in the stands and on the field. After the World Cup, the upper seating will be dismantled to reduce the stadium to a 20,000-seat venue, allowing local football clubs to use it as their home ground. The location of the upper seats is planned to accommodate a hotel and medical facilities.

A Heerim official said, "It boasts a high level of beauty with an innovative design that well reflects Qatar's cultural characteristics," adding, "Based on various references of sports facilities, we actively incorporated the latest trends such as stadium design reflecting national or regional identity, eco-friendly design, and post-use plans."

They also stated that Heerim provides optimal solutions by enhancing the completeness of the architecture and shortening construction periods through its unique service that integrates design and construction management (CM). Heerim previously designed the Baku Olympic Stadium in Azerbaijan, Gangneung Ice Arena and the main stadium of the 2014 Incheon Asian Games in Korea, and the Humo Arena in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.