Gensler Unveils New 42,000-Seat Stadium for Al-Ahly FC

Gensler, in collaboration with El Qalaa El Hamraa and Buro Happold, has designed a new stadium for Al-Ahly, Egypt's premier football club.

The 42,000-seat venue will serve as Al-Ahly's first dedicated home and is intended to host both football matches and large-scale events.

Located between Cairo and Alexandria, near Sphinx International Airport, the stadium's design addresses site-specific challenges, particularly height restrictions due to the airport's flight paths.

According to the Gensler report, the innovative design features a partially sunken pitch, which helps mitigate these constraints while promoting sustainability. By utilizing the cooling effect of the surrounding earth, the sunken design reduces heat and minimizes the stadium’s environmental footprint through passive cooling techniques.

The stadium boasts double-tiered stands on the west, north, and south sides, ensuring that fans are close to the action and creating an intense atmosphere. The iconic asymmetrical cable-net roof, supported by a structural arch, adds a distinctive architectural flair.

In addition to football, the stadium will include a public plaza capable of accommodating 30,000 visitors, complete with cafes, a team shop, and an Al-Ahly museum. The ‘Owners’ Plaza’ will provide a vibrant gathering space, while premium areas like The Field VIP will offer exclusive views and dining options.