Al-Awwal Park

Beneath the bright Riyadh sky sits Al-Awwal Park. It’s more than just a stadium. It’s a story waiting to be told. Al-Awwal Park, formerly known as Mrsool Park and King Saud University Stadium, is located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This vibrant venue is home to Al-Nassr FC. The stadium’s current capacity is 25,000. Al-Awwal Park isn’t just about football. It represents the future of sports in Saudi Arabia. The stadium is set to be a key venue for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. For this global event, Al-Awwal Park will undergo extensive renovations. The planned upgrades include an elliptical spoke-wheel roof and improved amenities. The capacity will also expand to 46,319. The stadium’s location on the King Saud University campus adds to its appeal. It’s easily accessible from the city center and near other sports facilities. The nearby U Walk, a mixed-use development, offers shopping and dining experiences. Al-Awwal Park’s story began in 2011 when construction started. The stadium officially opened in May 2015. Hashem Contracting Company built the stadium, based on designs by architects Michael KC Cheah and Steph Cheah. The unique design features a perforated metallic outer skin, giving the stadium a golden hue in the sunlight. The stadium has undergone several name changes, reflecting its evolving identity. From King Saud University Stadium to Mrsool Park, and now Al-Awwal Park, each name represents a chapter in its history. The name Al-Awwal Park comes from a sponsorship deal with Saudi Awwal Bank in 2023. The three-year deal is valued at $15 million. Al-Awwal Park has witnessed memorable moments, including the Maradona Cup in 2021. This match between Boca Juniors and FC Barcelona honored the legendary Diego Maradona. After the 2034 World Cup, Al-Awwal Park will continue to serve the community. It will be home to King Saud University teams and host university sports and community events. It will also support women’s football. Part of the upper tier will be removed, reducing the capacity to 33,000. Al-Awwal Park stands as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sports and its vibrant future.