Gensler, in partnership with El Qalaa El Hamraa and Buro Happold, has revealed the design for Al-Ahly Football Club’s first-ever dedicated stadium, a landmark project that will redefine sports architecture in Egypt and beyond.
A New Home for Al-Ahly
Located between Cairo and Alexandria, near Sphinx International Airport, the 42,000-seat stadium will serve as a true home for one of Africa’s most successful football clubs. More than just a sports venue, the project aims to become a national icon and economic catalyst, hosting major events year-round.
Innovative and Sustainable Design
To overcome height restrictions due to the airport’s flight paths, the stadium features a partially submerged pitch, leveraging cooler earth temperatures to reduce ambient heat and enhance sustainability through passive design strategies.
Tayomara Gama, Sports Leader Europe at Gensler, explains:
“By overcoming site challenges and integrating sustainable, cutting-edge solutions, our design creates a landmark venue that embodies the spirit of Al-Ahly while acting as a cultural and economic catalyst for the region.”
Architectural Highlights
- Asymmetric Cable Net Roof – A first-of-its-kind structural arch enhances the stadium’s visual identity.
- Sunken Bowl Design – Improves cooling and enhances fan engagement.
- Owners’ Plaza – A vibrant gathering space for 30,000 visitors, featuring a team shop, cafes, and the Al-Ahly Museum.
- Enhanced Fan Experience – Dedicated supporter sections, premium VIP areas, and a walkway with inscribed club members’ names strengthen the connection between fans and the club.
- Illuminated Digital Façade – A dynamic, night-time landmark visible from the air, offering digital projections and interactive displays.
Russell Gilchrist, Design Director and Principal at Gensler, states:
“Our vision was to create a stadium where every fan feels connected. From the sunken bowl to the iconic arch, every detail enhances the experience.”
Beyond Football: A Year-Round Destination
Designed to be a multi-functional hub, the stadium is part of Al-Ahly Club Sports City, an expansive development featuring:
- A university
- A hospital
- A mosque
- Event and concert spaces
This holistic approach ensures economic growth, tourism, and community engagement, making the stadium more than just a sporting venue—it becomes a cultural and social epicenter for Cairo.
A Legacy for Generations
Al-Ahly’s stadium isn’t just about the game—it’s about identity, passion, and community. By combining cutting-edge architecture, sustainability, and cultural significance, Gensler’s visionary design creates a historic home for Egypt’s football giants, setting a new benchmark for stadium experiences worldwide.
