Iraq starts construction of two soccer stadiums
Work has begun on construction of two soccer stadiums in Basra and Najaf in Iraq.
The first stadium is being built in Al-Menaa, Basra at an estimated cost of $86 million while the other will be located in Najaf and is being built with an estimated budget of $83.75 million. Both the stadiums will be designed by Kansas-based architecture firm 360 Architecture and developed by Anwar Soura General Contracting Company. Both the facilities will have a seat capacity of 30,000.
The Al-Menaa facility will feature various intimate and pedestrian-friendly parks along with a unique exterior design. It will also comprise public areas which will connect the stadium to the encompassing district. This facility is expected to be ready by October 2013.
The Najaf stadium's exterior portion will incorporate a square shape. It will be adorned with latticework inspired by the region's Imam Ali Mosque. Further, the facility will add to the sustainability factor by making use of passive cooling towers to enhance the comfort level of its concourse. The completion date of the project is yet to be determined.
