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The 40,000-seat Al Wakrah Stadium is getting a few test runs before its international debut at the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar. The Zaha Hadid-designed venue, one of the architect's final contributions before her untimely passing in 2016, was inaugurated on May 16 when it hosted the Amir Cup Final of the Qatar Stars national football league.
The blistering Qatar heat required some sensitive design interventions to maximize player and spectator comfort. Enabling the venue to host football matches year-round, a network of nozzles under the seats pump cool air into the bowl, which is then recycled to maintain an 18°C temperature in the spectator areas. The system is coupled with an operable roof comprised of PTFE fabric, providing the stands some protection from the intense summer sun.
The flowing curves and pleats of the building's exterior are an abstract interpretation of dhows, traditional fishing and pearling vessels that are ubiquitous in Al Wakrah's port. The roof is then clad in a shiny white surface inspired by sea shells.
Al Wakrah Stadium is the first purpose-built facility to be completed before the 2022 World Cup. When the games are over, the stadium's modular construction will allow it to be downsized, with the obsolete seats to be donated to venues overseas.
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