Designs for the Al Thumama Stadium have been revealed, which is the sixth to be unveiled ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™.

The circular 40,000-seater stadium is based on the traditional Arab headdress, the ‘gahfiya’, worn across the region and is expected to be completed by 2020. "This symbolic design embodies everything that unites us as Arabs and Muslims, and is a fitting tribute to the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East,” said SC Secretary General H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi.

“I am confident that, once completed, Al Thumama Stadium will become a favourite among the region’s sports fans and a sporting landmark that demonstrates to future generations just how unique the Qatar World Cup will be.”

Renowned Qatari architect Ibrahim M. Jaidah is the man behind the plans, who has a resume that includes seeing one of his buildings adorning the country’s 100 riyal note. “The reveal of the Al Thumama Stadium design comes with immense pride,” he said. “The inspiration behind the design comes in line with Qatar's hosting promise that this World Cup will be one for the region to celebrate.”

The stadium, one of the most central of the eight new stadiums being constructed, will convert into a 20,000-seater stadium following the conclusion of the tournament, with the removed sections being donated to developing football nations. It will also include world-class standards of disabled access and a cooling system to allow for sport all year-round.