Join us for the Opening Ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone at KAUST

10 June, 2026

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. 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. 

 
Fan Zone Hours 

  • Daily from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. 
  • Game Zone and Creation Station open daily 

Live Match Screening 

  • Discovery Square: Streaming all FIFA World Cup matches with Arabic commentary all day.  
  • Discovery Cinema: From 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. with Arabic commentary 
  • Sports Lounge: From 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. with English commentary 

To view the full match schedule, activity details, entertainment dates, venue information and more, visit the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone webpage below. 

 

 

Opening Ceremony 

Join us as we officially kick off the Fan Zone with special entertainment and live streaming of the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

Date: Thursday, June 11 
Location: Discovery Square 
Schedule 
  • From 6:00 p.m. - Roaming Entertainment, Interactive football games and challenges 
  • 9:00 p.m. - FIFA 2026 Opening Ceremony
  • 10:00 p.m. - Mexico Vs South Africa 

Daily at the Fan Zone 

Every day, community members can enjoy:  

  • Live match screenings  
  • Free Game Zone experiences 
  • Creation Station activities  
  • Photo booths and immersive experiences 

Prediction Challenge 

Think you know football? 
Campus and Community (C&C) invites all KAUST residents and staff to predict how the FIFA World Cup 2026 will unfold. 
Predict match results and scores throughout the group stage for a chance to win exciting prizes. 


Click here to predict

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

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.  

CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY