Hassan II stadium plans reveal 114,414 seats ahead of 2030 World Cup

The Grand Stade Hassan II in Benslimane is moving into a new stage of development, with contracts covering the pitch and seating now being progressed ahead of the 2030 World Cup.

The stadium is expected to hold about 115,000 spectators and is set to become one of the main venues for the tournament, which will be hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal.

A second contract provides for the supply and installation of 114,414 seats across the venue. Of those, 98,579 will be allocated to the general public.

The remaining places will include 6,396 hospitality seats, 2,754 Skybox seats, 1,992 VIP seats and 359 VVIP seats.

Special facilities will also be installed for people with reduced mobility, as well as for the various officials and operational teams involved in international competitions.

The seating and stadium facilities are being developed after the completion of the main structural works, marking a shift towards the installation of the equipment needed for the venue to operate during major sporting events.

The project also includes extensive provision for media operations. Plans call for 504 three-seat press tables and 62 individual tables, while a number of camera platforms will be built around the pitch.

Dedicated areas will be set aside for referees, medical staff and teams. Two dugout shelters, each with space for 26 substitutes, are also included in the plans.

The playing surface will be designed to meet the demands of elite international football. A separate contract, valued at 92.47m dirhams, covers 8,150 square metres of natural hybrid grass, 2,650 square metres of synthetic turf and 5,500 square metres of decorative grass.

The pitch will be supported by a drainage system, automated irrigation, forced ventilation and several LED horticultural lighting units. Those installations are intended to support the maintenance and condition of the playing surface.

Together, the two contracts are worth nearly 370m dirhams. Each has an execution period of 14 months.

The latest work indicates that the Grand Stade Hassan II is gradually moving beyond its structural phase and towards the completion of its sporting and operational infrastructure.

With its planned capacity of about 115,000, the stadium is expected to become the largest football venue in the world. Its role will be especially significant during the 2030 World Cup, with Morocco aiming to stage several matches at the Benslimane venue.