U.S.-based design publication Architectural Digest (AD) has spotlighted Morocco’s planned Grand Stade Hassan II, describing the 115,000-seat venue near Casablanca as one of the most ambitious stadium projects linked to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The stadium, currently under construction in Benslimane, around 40 km from Casablanca, is expected to become the world’s largest football-specific stadium when completed and will serve as a flagship venue for the tournament, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
Designed by international architecture firm Populous in partnership with Moroccan architect Oualalou, the project draws inspiration from the traditional Moroccan Moussem, a cultural and social gathering often associated with large tent structures.
The design features a vast aluminum lattice roof resembling a monumental tent, intended to blend contemporary engineering with Moroccan cultural heritage.
According to project details, the stadium will have a capacity of 115,000 spectators, surpassing most football venues worldwide. The structure will include multi-tiered stands, VIP hospitality areas and a royal box, while forming the centerpiece of a larger sports and entertainment district.
AD noted that the project reflects Morocco’s broader ambition to use architecture and infrastructure to showcase its identity on the global stage ahead of the 2030 World Cup. The stadium has also been widely seen as a contender to host the tournament’s final, although FIFA has yet to announce venue allocations.