Casablanca, Morocco
Drawing inspiration from Morocco’s traditional “moussem,” a type of social gathering, Populous and Oualalou + Choi unveil their designs of the Grand Stade Hassan II that is set to be the largest football stadium globally boasting a capacity of 115,000 people.
The stadium’s design features a grand, tent-like roof that integrates dramatically into its forested surroundings.
The roof is a standout feature of the design, constructed from a unique aluminum lattice.
The structure is supported by 32 stairways that form monumental gateways leading to elevated gardens, situated 28 meters above ground.
These gardens offer a distinctive spatial experience, creating a green environment beneath the translucent roof.
The design also incorporates botanical gardens at ground level, further enhancing the stadium’s connection to nature.
“The Grand Stade Hassan II is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture, with its traditions and contemporary expressions. It is rooted in ancient and primordial figures: the Moussem, the tent, and the garden, as well as the topography and landscapes of Morocco,” states Tarik Oualalou, Design Principal and Founding Partner of Oualalou + Choi.
“Its a generous space, open to the world and respectful to the Nature it protects. The Grand Stade Hassan II de Casablanca is the embodiment of the great tradition of Moroccan hospitality.”
The stadium’s primary seating sections consist of three steep tiers at each end, with each end able to hold 29,500 spectators.
This design is intended to foster a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
Alongside these general admission areas, the stadium also features five levels of hospitality on each side of the field, offering seats for 12,000 VVIP, VIP, and hospitality guests, along with a Royal box.
The Grand Stade Hassan II is designed to comply with FIFA standards, positioning it as a possible venue for the 2030 FIFA World Cup final, with Morocco set to co-host alongside Spain and Portugal.
The stadium will also be the home ground for two local football clubs.
Construction is being prepared on a 100-hectare site in El Mansouria, Benslimane Province, 38 km north of Casablanca, following the approval of public financing in October 2023.
Project: Grand Stade Hassan II
Architects: Populous and Oualalou + Choi
Renderings: Courtesy of the Architects
