The country's largest stadium
Iraq’s Tajiyat Stadium expected to accommodate 95,000 spectators
BAGHDAD — Construction is underway for the largest football stadium in Iraq, known as Tajiyat Stadium, located in northern Baghdad. The ambitious project aims to accommodate an impressive 95,000 spectators.
Recent activity at the construction site indicates a resumption of work, with the arrival of equipment and materials from the contracted company, signaling progress after an initial pause.
An official from the Iraqi Ministry of Youth and Sports, speaking to 964media on condition of anonymity, confirmed that all necessary legal procedures have been finalized to continue work on the site. Additionally, undisclosed issues with Bilind Baya, the Iranian company responsible for constructing the stadium, have been successfully resolved, the source said.
Engineers closely involved in the project corroborated the information, affirming that essential equipment and machinery were now in place at the site, poised for the next phase of construction.
The original plan for Tajiyat Stadium is also reportedly set set to undergo a significant expansion. Preliminary approval has been granted to boost its initial capacity from 60,000 to 95,000 spectators. The enhancement includes the addition of four main stands, as well as a secondary stadium capable of hosting 2,000 fans. Furthermore, plans include a luxurious five-star hotel and state-of-the-art training facilities.
In recent years, Iraq has made strides in sports infrastructure development and renovation. Notable projects include the Basra International Stadium, the Habibieh Stadium in Baghdad with a capacity for 30,000 spectators, the revitalization of the Zawra Stadium, construction of the Karbala Stadium, and ongoing efforts at the Olympic Stadium in Kirkuk.
Despite the investments, world football organization FIFA has granted official approval only to Basra and Erbil as venues for Iraqi national team matches and club competitions on both the Asian and global stages. Baghdad remains absent from the list of sanctioned locations.
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