WSP Flack + Kurtz has started design work for a new $500m football stadium in the southern Iraqi city of Basra.

The engineering firm, which is part of UK-based engineering consultancy WSP, will design a 65,000-seat stadium that will be used for the 2013 Gulf Cup. 

The project also includes a 10,000-seat practice stadium, training facilities, parking, athletes’ accommodation and a fire station.

WSP  Flack + Kurtz is working with US-based 360 Architecture, which is designing the mechanical and electrical systems, plumbing and lighting.

Other stadium developments in the region include Abu Dhabi’s plans to build two new sports venues. Abu Dhabi General Services (Musanada) received bids in late November from contractors for a deal to build an estimated AED350m ($95m), 20,000-seat football stadium at Baniyas City, between Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain.

Abu Dhabi government-controlled investment vehicle Mubadala Development Company has invited companies to prequalify for a much larger football stadium. It will be built in the Capital City District and will seat 65,000 people. UK-based Mott MacDonald is the project manager (MEED 3:12:09).