FIFA World Cup 2026

Fan Zone at KAUST

June 11 to July 19, 2026 | Discovery Square

Watch. Play. Create. Celebrate.

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Football fever is back at KAUST!  

Following the success of the 2022 Qatar World Cup Fan Zone, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone is returning to campus. 

From June 11 to July 19, 2026, Discovery Square will transform into a vibrant hub of football, entertainment, and community spirit every day from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. 

More than just match screenings, the Fan Zone will bring the KAUST community together through interactive experiences, prediction challenges, exciting activations, and shared moments that make every game unforgettable. 


June 11 to July 19, 2026

6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Discovery Square

LIVE MATCH STREAMING

Experience the excitement of the FIFA World Cup in a shared community setting through the live streaming of matches at Discovery Square and other locations. 

Whether you prefer the energy of a large outdoor crowd or the comfort of an indoor venue, there is a viewing option for everyone.


Match Schedule

 

 

Live-streaming
Discovery Square
  • Main Fan Zone Venue
  • Arabic Commentary
  • All FIFA matches at all times

 

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Discovery Cinema
  • Indoor Venue
  • English Commentary
  • 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. daily
  • Cinema kiosk open daily until 1:00 a.m.
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Sports Lounge
  • Indoor Venue in Harbor Walk
  • English Commentary
  • 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. daily
  • Ideal for smaller groups

 

Explore Fan Zone Photos

PREDICTION CHALLENGE

 

Campus and Community (C&C) invites all KAUST residents and staff to take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Prediction Challenge.

Participants will predict the outcomes and scores of group-stage matches throughout the tournament.

Who Can Participate?

  • Open to all KAUST community.

Prizes

The top four participants with the highest scores will win exciting prizes.

Whether you're a football expert or simply enjoy the thrill of predicting results, this challenge adds another layer of excitement to every match.

 

Note: the Prediction Challenge will be open only from 10:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 10.

 

Join the Prediction Challenge

Daily at the Fan Zone

 

The Fan Zone is much more than match screenings. Every evening, visitors can enjoy a variety of interactive activities designed to bring football fans of all ages together.

GAME ZONE

The Game Zone is a high-energy activity area packed with football-inspired games, friendly competition, and interactive experiences.

It is free and open daily throughout the tournament.

Activities include:

 

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Foosball

Challenge friends and family in classic table football matches.

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Table Tennis

Fast-paced fun for players of all skill levels.

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Football Billiards

A football-themed twist on a traditional game where players use footballs instead of pool balls.

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Target Goal Challenge

Put your accuracy to the test and see how many points you can score.

 

 

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Connect 4 Basketball

A unique combination of basketball and strategy where every shot counts.

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PS5 FIFA Championship Pod

Compete against fellow community members in FIFA video game matches and prove your virtual football skills.

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Saudi National Team Corner

Celebrate Saudi football through themed activities, displays, and interactive experiences dedicated to the national team.

CREATION STATION

Take Home a Piece of the Tournament

Create personalized souvenirs that will help you remember your FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone experience.

Please note that fees apply to Creation Station activities.

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Create Your Jersey

Choose your design and personalize your own football jersey using custom heat-press printing.

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Paint Your Ball

Unleash your creativity by designing and painting your own football. Take your finished creation home as a memorable souvenir from the tournament.

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PHOTO BOOTHS

No FIFA Fan Zone experience is complete without photos.

Visitors can enjoy multiple immersive photo experiences across the venue including a GOOOAAL Photo Backdrop, Giant Trophy and more. 

Share your photos and moments from the Fan Zone using #KAUSTKickOff26 with us on Instagram @KAUST.Life. 

 

restaurant-web

FOOD AT THE FAN ZONE

Some restaurants and cafés at Discovery Square and Harbor Walk will extend their operating hours throughout the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone. From casual dining and coffee to family-friendly meals, there's something for every taste.

Please check each restaurant's operating hours before your visit, as hours may vary during the tournament.
Operating Hours

Temporary Food Trucks

For even more variety, stop by our temporary food trucks and pop-up vendors located throughout the Fan Zone. They're the perfect choice for a quick snack or a sweet treat while you enjoy the matches and entertainment.
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X-Bite Food Truck

Serving burgers, sandwiches, loaded fries, and more.

Operating Hours: 5:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.

Hours may vary depending on match schedules and visitor traffic.

Menu
Brain-freeze
Brain Freeze Ice Cream
Cool off with ice cream, frozen desserts, and refreshing treats throughout the evening.

Operating Hours: 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.


Menu
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Reda Al Waldeen

Treat yourself to Reda Al Waldeen's fresh homemade crème caramel (flan)

Operating Hours:

  • Sunday to Thursday - 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
  • Friday to Saturday - 4:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Menu

Special Entertainment Days

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Additional entertainment experiences will take place during select tournament milestones and key matches. Featured entertainment includes:

  • Roaming Football Musicians: bringing football-inspired music, energy, and excitement to the Fan Zone.
  • Interactive Characters: Unique performers will interact with visitors, host mini challenges, pose for photos, and create memorable experiences throughout the venue.
  • Live set by DJ Toluwa on Thursday, July 9

See Schedule below

🗓️
Opening Ceremony
Thursday, June 11
From 6:00 p.m.

 

 

🗓️
Saudi Arabia vs Spain
Sunday, June 21
From 6:00 p.m.

 

 

🗓️
Round of 16
Saturday, July 4
From 6:00 p.m.

 

 

🗓️
Quarter Final
Thursday, July 9
From 7:30 p.m.

 

 

🗓️
Semi Final
Tuesday, July 14
From 9:0 p.m.

 

 

🗓️
Final Match
Sunday, July 19
From 6:00 p.m.

 

 

Explore Event Photos

Flickr Album

Contact

For questions or enquiries, please contact community.events@kaust.edu.sa.

 

Save the dates and get ready to watch, play, cheer, and celebrate together. 

Stay connected through our Instagram (@KAUST.life) and Facebook channels for live updates and join the conversation using #KAUSTKickOff26.  

Feedback

For comments or feedback, please share them through the Campus and Community Service Experience Survey linked below. 

Campus and Community Service Experience Survey