The Chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, Turki Al-Sheikh, recently announced a significant development project for “Kingdom Arena,” where Al-Hilal plays its matches. The project is set to be ready for handover within 90 days of the club’s approval. Al-Sheikh revealed that the stadium’s current capacity of 18,800 seats will be increased to 26,700 seats, with 14 VIP boxes on the opposite side. He also introduced an innovative Saudi technology that could revolutionize the way stadiums are managed, providing a solution for the “priority for events” agreement between Riyadh Season and Al-Hilal.
The new technology involves columns planted under the stadium’s surface, which emerge when the field is covered with aluminum panels equipped with lighting, nutrition, and ventilation technology without affecting the field itself. This revolutionary system will allow the facility to be rotated within 48 hours instead of the usual 10 days, making it easier for both parties to use with minimal conflict. The patent for this groundbreaking technology will be registered with international football federations, setting a new standard for stadium management worldwide.
Despite rumors claiming that the stadium rent is SR40 million, Al-Sheikh clarified that Al-Hilal only pays SR15 million, with Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal covering the remaining SR25 million for the naming rights of ‘Kingdom Arena.’ He also mentioned that Al-Hilal’s revenue has seen a significant increase due to successful partnerships during Riyadh Season and Riyadh Calendar. This shows the commitment of all parties involved to ensure the success of Al-Hilal and the development of entertainment options in Saudi Arabia.
The capacity expansion and technological innovations at “Kingdom Arena” will not only benefit Al-Hilal and its fans but also enhance the overall entertainment experience for spectators. The addition of 1,200 filming and logistics seats, along with VIP boxes, will provide a more diverse range of viewing options for attendees. The utilization of the new Saudi technology will streamline operations and allow for quick turnaround times between events, ultimately maximizing the potential of the facility for various activities.
The collaboration between Riyadh Season and Al-Hilal showcases the dedication of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority to promote sports and entertainment in the region. By investing in innovative solutions and partnerships, the authority aims to elevate the standards of stadium infrastructure and management, setting a new benchmark for other facilities to follow. The successful implementation of the new technology at “Kingdom Arena” will position Saudi Arabia as a leader in stadium innovation and event hosting capabilities.
In conclusion, the development project for “Kingdom Arena” represents a significant step forward in the evolution of sports and entertainment in Saudi Arabia. The commitment of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority to provide state-of-the-art facilities and technologies for Al-Hilal and other entertainment events demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to enhancing the overall fan experience. With the upcoming capacity increase and technological advancements, “Kingdom Arena” is poised to become a premier destination for sports and entertainment in the region, setting a new standard for stadium excellence.
