Construction has begun on a new football stadium in Almaty with a capacity of 45,000 spectators. The UEFA Category IV arena will be built in the Medeu District and will be capable of hosting the biggest international football matches, El.kz reports.
Construction
Work is underway on a 32-hectare site located between the Kulja Highway and the Talgar Highway. According to the Almaty Construction Department, engineers are currently conducting geotechnical surveys and installing test piles to assess soil conditions before the main foundation is laid. Particular attention is being paid to seismic safety due to the region’s earthquake risk.
A World-class arena
The new stadium will be awarded UEFA Category IV status - the highest stadium classification under UEFA regulations. This will enable Almaty to host UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa Leaguegroup-stage and knockout matches, as well as official fixtures involving national teams.
The project includes modern infrastructure for both spectators and athletes. In addition to football matches, the venue will be designed to host major sporting events, concerts, and other large-scale public gatherings.
Metro, parking, and a transport hub
The surrounding area will also undergo significant development alongside the stadium’s construction. A transport and logistics hub will be built next to the complex to help reduce traffic congestion during major events.
The project also includes a parking facility with more than 1,000 parking spaces, allowing the venue to accommodate large crowds while minimizing the impact on nearby neighborhoods.
What will happen to Almaty’s central stadium?
Almaty’s existing Central Stadium, which has been in operation for more than 65 years, will remain open and will not be demolished.
Following modernization, the venue will retain its sporting function, with a stronger focus on track and field athletics and hosting athletics competitions.
When will construction be completed?
The final cost of the project will be determined after the project documentation successfully passes the state expert review.
The new arena will significantly expand Almaty’s ability to host international football tournaments and other major sporting events. Once completed, the city will have a modern stadium that meets European football standards and is designed to host competitions at the highest international level.
