Jeddah’s stadiums, hosting the knockout stages of the 2026 AFC Champions League Elite from April 13 to 25, have deployed advanced smart systems and artificial intelligence at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium to streamline the fan experience through digital recognition and sophisticated crowd-management solutions that ensure seamless entry, exit, and navigation for thousands of international spectators.
A key highlight of the tournament’s technological infrastructure is the Ahlan application, a unified digital platform that integrates ticketing, match schedules, transportation, and stadium access. This transition toward smart stadiums is complemented by interactive entertainment zones organized by the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Local Organizing Committee, offering fans digital sports experiences that enhance the festive atmosphere.
These innovations are part of a broader national strategy to modernize sports infrastructure. By implementing cutting-edge digital solutions today, the Kingdom is establishing a global benchmark in preparation for hosting major upcoming events, including the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Source: Riyadh Daily