Work at the Al Bayt Stadium in Qatar, a proposed host venue for 2022 Fifa World Cup matches, is in full swing following successful work on the foundations and the installation of the first sections of the 12-m lower tier walls, which will carry the weight of the entire stadium structure, said the project director.

A joint venture involving Galfar Al Misnad, Salini Impregilo Group and Cimolai is in charge of the construction of the stadium and the energy centre.

Local contractors Bin Omran Trading and Contracting and Al Sulaiteen Agricultural and Industrial Complex are working on the precinct infrastructure and landscape, respectively.

The stadium will feature a futuristic retractable roof with mechanics similar to those used at Wimbledon’s Centre Court. The  roof will be able to close completely in 20 minutes, explained Dr Nasser Al Hajeri, the project director of Aspire Zone Foundation.

Fans walking up to Al Bayt Stadium – Al Khor City in 2022 will pass through a landscaped area similar to that at Aspire Park, and arrive at a stadium inspired by the traditional Arabian tent which will reach 37 m in height.

Three tiers of seating will provide ample space for 60,000 spectators with the seats coloured in the black, red and white interior design of a tent, and a retractable roof in place above to provide optimal cooling conditions which will allow football to be played year-round in the arena. Other ongoing works include excavation, de-watering, installation of pipe connections and the setting up of a tree nursery.

Al Bayt Stadium is one of the eight stadiums currently under construction across Qatar.