In 2010, the tiny gulf nation of Qatar outbid Australia, Japan, South Korea and the United States in securing the rights to host FIFA World Cup 2022. In preparation, Qatar has ramped up the progress on its infrastructure projects and started construction on various new stadiums. Al Janoub Stadium and Precinct is located in the city of Al Wakrah and will host the group and quarterfinal matches.

Al Janoub Stadium and Precinct was designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) together with Aecom. It was designed to serve as a location for World Cup 2022 matches, with legacy use as the home stadium to Al-Wakrah Sport Club, the professional football team of the Qatar Stars national league.

Photography: Hufton+Crow

Photography: Hufton+Crow

The stadium seats 40,000 people, with 20,000 of those seats designed to be removable and transportable to developing countries in need of sporting infrastructure.

Photography: Hufton+Crow

Photography: Luke Hayes

A large retractable roof looms over the large modular stadium. It was designed by Schlaich Bergermann Partner and features a seating bowl cooling system to ensure players and spectators comfort during the hot summer months.

Photography: Hufton+Crow

Photography: Hufton+Crow

The hypnotizing exterior was designed to highlight the maritime traditions of the local area. The roof resembles the hull of a dhow — a traditional Arab sailing vessel. The designers incorporated multiple cultural themes into the stadium’s abstract appearance.

Photography: Hufton+Crow

Photography Hufton+Crow

Photography Hufton+Crow

Designed in conjunction with a new precinct, the stadium was meant to sit at the heart of the city’s planned urban expansion. It will host community-based activities on non-event days and create a memorable experience for tourists traveling to Qatar — the first Arab nation to host a FIFA World Cup.

Photography: Luke Hayes

Photography: Luke Hayes

Photography: Hufton+Crow

Photography: Zaha Hadid Architects