Al Janoub Stadium, Football stadium in Al Wakrah, Qatar
Al Janoub Stadium is a football arena in the coastal town of Al Wakrah, south of Doha, known for its white, wave-like roof. The roof can open and close and covers both the pitch and the surrounding stands.
The arena opened in May 2019 and was the second venue completed specifically for the 2022 World Cup, following the renovated Khalifa International Stadium. Its design and technical features were meant to demonstrate how modern sports facilities can operate in a hot climate.
The design by Zaha Hadid draws on the curved shapes of traditional dhows, the wooden boats that fishermen and traders once sailed along the coast of Al Wakrah. This reference to seafaring reflects the past of the town, which once relied on pearl diving and maritime trade.
Capacity can be reduced from 40,000 to 20,000 seats, with surplus modules intended for reuse in countries with less infrastructure. The entire site is accessible, and signs in Arabic and English help with orientation.
The roof is made of a PTFE fabric that lets light through while shielding the pitch and spectator areas from intense heat. Combined with the cooling system beneath the seating, the structure keeps the temperature noticeably more comfortable even during summer heat.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
