Doha: The innovative Stadium 974 was officially unveiled during a digital launch on November 20, 2021. It will host its first match on 30 November when the United Arab Emirates and Syria go head-to-head on the opening day of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021.
Stadium 974 is the seventh tournament-ready venue for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 after Khalifa International, Al Janoub, Education City, Ahmad Bin Ali, Al Thumama and Al Bayt.
The 40,000-capacity venue is the first fully demountable stadium in FIFA World Cup history. The stadium has been constructed using shipping containers and modular steel elements which reflect Qatar’s maritime history.
Stadium 974 will host six matches during the FIFA Arab Cup, including the third-place play-off on December 18, and seven matches up to the round of 16 stage during Qatar 2022.
The stadium was named after the number of shipping containers used in its development. 974 is also Qatar’s international dialling code. The name also reflects the stadium’s strategic position as the gateway to Qatar as it is close to Hamad International Airport, Doha Airport and Doha Port.
Here are five key facts about the venue:
Colourful, innovative design
Constructed using shipping containers and modular steel elements, Stadium 974 is a distinctive, boldly colourful and thoroughly modern arena. The stadium’s clever modular design has resulted in fewer building materials being used in construction compared to traditional stadium developments. Many of the stadium’s shipping containers were used to transport construction materials to the venue.
Round of 16 venue during Qatar 2022
Stadium 974 will host seven matches up to and including the round of 16 stage during Qatar 2022.
Demonstrating new possibilities
Stadium 974 is the first fully demountable stadium in FIFA World Cup history. This contemporary stadium is both visually appealing and cost-effective. It is a flagship sustainability project that will inspire future mega-event hosts.
A symbol of sustainability
Stadium 974 is targeting five-star Global Sustainability Assessment System certification for both its design and construction. Due to its innovative design and seaside location, the stadium bowl is naturally ventilated – thus avoiding the need for cooling technology. Much of the stadium's structure is made from recycled steel, while its efficiency methods ensured the reduction of water use by 40% compared to conventional stadium developments.
Accessible venue
Fans will be able to access Stadium 974 by using the Doha Metro and arriving at Ras Bu Abboud Station, which is on the Gold Line and approximately 800 metres from the venue. A single journey on the metro is QR 2 ($0.55), while a day pass is QR 6 ($1.65). All passengers must buy a reusable travel card for QR 10 ($2.75).
Tickets for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021 are now available on a first-come, first-served basis at FIFA.com/tickets. Currently, tickets for all 32 matches are available. This includes a selection of affordable category 4 tickets costing QR 25 each (Qatar residents only) for all matches, except the semi-finals and final. Every ticket holder must apply for a mandatory Hay’ya Card (Fan ID): fac21.qa.
