Fenwick Iribarren Architects (FIA) has been appointed as the lead designer for the ambitious Al-Ittihad sports village project in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This development marks a significant step in the modernization of one of the Kingdom’s most storied football clubs.
The project is designed to be a comprehensive hub for Al-Ittihad, featuring a new club headquarters, elite training pitches for both the first team and youth squads, performance development centers, and dedicated administrative and commercial buildings.
Strategic Vision and Global Standards
The design proposal by FIA, a member of the 10N collective, was selected for its strict alignment with FIFA requirements and the club’s long-term strategic goals. The master plan focuses on:
- Operational Sustainability: Streamlining club functions and generating new commercial revenue streams.
- Environmental Standards: Adhering to modern green building and sustainability protocols.
- Performance Optimization: Providing world-class facilities to enhance player development and sports excellence.
The project will be managed by the American engineering firm Parsons, serving as the project management consultant.
A Landmark for Saudi Vision 2030
Located near the King Abdullah Sports City, the new village is positioned to offer seamless urban integration. The project is a direct contribution to Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to modernize infrastructure and create internationally recognized sports destinations within the region.
FIA’s Expanding Middle East Portfolio
Fenwick Iribarren Architects is no stranger to high-profile Middle Eastern projects. The firm gained global acclaim for its work on three iconic venues for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022:
- Education City Stadium
- Al Thumama Stadium
- 974 Stadium (The world’s first fully demountable tournament venue)
Currently, Al-Ittihad plays at the 62,345-capacity King Abdullah Sports City Stadium. This new dedicated village will provide the club with a tailored environment to foster the next generation of talent while elevating the overall fan and player experience.