Morocco has officially launched the construction tender for the Grand Stade Hassan II Stadium, marking a significant step towards creating the world's largest football stadium. Situated in Benslimane province, roughly 38 km northeast of Casablanca, the stadium will be a central feature in Morocco's efforts to position itself as a major hub for international sports events. The project, which is expected to cost approximately MAD 5 billion (around $500 million), has already completed its initial earthworks phase, with the next stage of construction now underway.
The second phase, valued at MAD 3.2 billion (approximately $320 million), will focus on the stadium's core structural elements, including masonry, waterproofing, metal framework, roofing, carpentry, and finishes. Once completed, the stadium can hold 115,000 spectators, surpassing the current largest stadium, the Rungrado 1 May Stadium in North Korea, which accommodates 114,000.
The Hassan II Stadium, the Grand Stade de Casablanca, will be a landmark structure reflecting Morocco's rich cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from traditional Moroccan festivals known as "mousse" and the design of local tents, the stadium will feature a striking, translucent tent-like roof made from an innovative aluminium lattice. The roof will be supported by a ring of 32 stairways, creating monumental entrances that lead to elevated platforms and botanical gardens.
In addition to the impressive seating structure, which includes three tiers in the main stands and two large single-tier stands at either end, the stadium will also feature five levels of luxury hospitality suites, including a royal box. The design incorporates extensive greenery, with botanical gardens at both the ground level and on the raised platforms, giving the venue the feel of an "oasis of greenery."
The stadium will be built to FIFA's exacting standards, ensuring its ability to host high-profile international events, including the final match of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Morocco is set to co-host the tournament with Spain and Portugal, and the Hassan II Stadium will play a key role in the country's preparations.
Beyond the stadium, the development will encompass a 100-hectare sports and entertainment complex. This will include training fields, a hotel, a conference centre, an athletics stadium, a sports hall, a gymnasium, swimming pools, play areas, two shopping centres, and ample parking facilities. The National Agency for Public Equipment (ANEP) oversees the project as the delegated project manager, working under the National Company for the Implementation and Management of Sports Equipment (SONARGES).
The authorities have set a 10 June deadline for tender submissions. The selected contractor is required to complete the stadium within 30 months from the date of the service order. The project is expected to be finished by December 2027, in time for the 2030 World Cup.
