Top 10 Most Expensive Stadiums in Africa and Their Prices (2025)

Africa is home to some of the world’s most impressive sports arenas. While football (soccer) remains the most popular sport on the continent, the need for modern facilities has led to massive investments in stadium construction. These stadiums are not just sporting grounds; they are national symbols, cultural hubs, and sources of international pride.

In recent decades, African governments and private investors have spent billions of dollars to build world-class stadiums that meet FIFA and Olympic standards. Many of these facilities host international tournaments, major concerts, and political events.

In this detailed article, we rank the Top 10 Most Expensive Stadiums in Africa (2025). You will learn about their construction costs, unique features, capacity, and the role they play in the continent’s sports and entertainment industry.

Summary Table of the Top 10 Most Expensive Stadiums in Africa

How Stadium Costs in Africa Are Determined

The cost of building a stadium in Africa depends on several factors, including:

• Capacity: The larger the stadium, the more expensive it is to build.

• Design and Architecture: Unique features like retractable roofs, giant screens, and VIP lounges increase costs.

• Technology: Modern stadiums integrate advanced security, sound systems, and lighting.

• Location: Costs are influenced by land prices, construction materials, and labor in each country.

• Purpose: Multi-purpose stadiums built for both sports and entertainment events are more costly.

1. FNB Stadium (Soccer City) – South Africa

The FNB Stadium, also known as Soccer City, is Africa’s largest stadium. It was originally built in 1989 but underwent massive renovations ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, costing $440 million.

• Capacity: 94,736

• Key Features: Calabash-inspired design, world-class seating, advanced lighting systems, VIP lounges.

• Events: Hosted the opening and final matches of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, concerts, and national events.

• Significance: This stadium is not only the pride of South Africa but also one of the most iconic football arenas in the world.

2. Cape Town Stadium – South Africa

Located in Green Point, Cape Town Stadium is one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world, built specifically for the 2010 World Cup.

• Construction Cost: $600 million

• Capacity: 55,000

• Key Features: Ocean-facing location, modern bowl design, premium hospitality suites.

• Events: FIFA World Cup matches, Rugby Sevens, major concerts (U2, Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran).

• Unique Factor: Its high cost is due to complex engineering challenges and luxury finishing.

3. Moses Mabhida Stadium – South Africa

The Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban is famous for its spectacular arch design.

• Cost: $450 million

• Capacity: 56,000

• Key Features: SkyCar cable ride over the arch, flexible seating, eco-friendly design.

• Events: 2010 FIFA World Cup matches, concerts, and cycling events.

• Tourism Impact: Its SkyCar has made it a top tourist attraction in South Africa.

4. Borg El Arab Stadium – Egypt

The Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria is the largest in Egypt and the second-largest in Africa.

• Cost: $200 million

• Capacity: 86,000

• Key Features: Military-built, Olympic track, advanced security systems.

• Events: Egypt’s national team matches, continental tournaments.

• Strategic Role: Often serves as Egypt’s national stadium when Cairo International Stadium is unavailable.

5. Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium – South Africa

Built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, this stadium is located in Port Elizabeth.

• Cost: $270 million

• Capacity: 46,000

• Key Features: Lake-side location, modern roof structure, multi-purpose design.

• Events: FIFA World Cup matches, rugby tournaments, music concerts.

• Legacy: First world-class stadium built in the Eastern Cape province.

6. Peter Mokaba Stadium – South Africa

Another World Cup stadium located in Polokwane.

• Cost: $150 million

• Capacity: 45,000

• Key Features: Baobab tree-inspired roof supports, modern seating, LED lighting.

• Events: Group matches of 2010 FIFA World Cup, PSL games.

• Importance: Boosted sports infrastructure in South Africa’s Limpopo Province.

7. Estádio 11 de Novembro – Angola

This stadium was built for the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Angola.

• Cost: $227 million

• Capacity: 48,000

• Key Features: Chinese-funded construction, modern athletic facilities, floodlights.

• Events: AFCON matches, national team games.

• Symbolism: Named after Angola’s independence day (11 November 1975).

8. Abuja National Stadium – Nigeria

Nigeria’s Abuja National Stadium is one of Africa’s most iconic sporting facilities.

• Cost: $360 million

• Capacity: 60,000

• Key Features: Retractable roof, Olympic-size swimming pool, advanced pitch technology.

• Events: All Africa Games 2003, Super Eagles matches, political events.

• Challenge: Maintenance issues have reduced its prestige, but it remains among the most expensive.

9. Stade d’Angondjé (Libreville) – Gabon

Also known as the Gabon National Stadium, this was constructed for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

• Cost: $200 million

• Capacity: 40,000

• Key Features: Modern design, fully air-conditioned VIP areas.

• Events: AFCON final 2012, Gabon national team matches.

• Note: Built with Chinese partnership and remains Gabon’s largest stadium.

10. Stade Olympique de Radès – Tunisia

The Stade Olympique de Radès is Tunisia’s largest stadium and a key venue in North Africa.

• Cost: $110 million

• Capacity: 60,000

• Key Features: Olympic facilities, retractable seating, multipurpose use.

• Events: 2001 Mediterranean Games, CAF Champions League finals.

• Importance: Continues to serve as Tunisia’s national stadium.

Comparison with Other Global Stadiums

While these African stadiums are impressive, their costs are relatively modest compared to some global stadiums. For example, the SoFi Stadium in the USA cost $5.5 billion, while Wembley Stadium in the UK cost $1.5 billion. Still, Africa’s stadiums represent a huge investment in sports development.

Key Factors Driving Stadium Investments in Africa

• Hosting international tournaments (World Cup, AFCON).

• Improving national image and tourism.

• Attracting global concerts and entertainment events.

• Modernizing sports infrastructure for local clubs and national teams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the most expensive stadium in Africa?
Cape Town Stadium in South Africa, costing $600 million.

2. Which African country has the most expensive stadiums?
South Africa, due to massive investments for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

3. What is the biggest stadium in Africa?
FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, with a capacity of 94,736.

4. Which is the most modern stadium in Africa?
Moses Mabhida Stadium, with its iconic arch and SkyCar ride.

5. How much did Abuja National Stadium cost?
It cost about $360 million.

6. Why are stadiums so expensive to build?
Due to land costs, architectural design, modern technology, and high-capacity seating.

7. Which African stadium hosted a FIFA World Cup final?
FNB Stadium hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup final.

8. Are all expensive stadiums in Africa well maintained?
Not always. Some like Abuja Stadium face maintenance challenges.

9. What role do Chinese companies play in African stadiums?
Many stadiums, like in Angola and Gabon, were built with Chinese funding and expertise.

10. Do expensive stadiums in Africa make money?
Yes, through hosting football matches, concerts, political rallies, and tourism.

Conclusion

The construction of these Top 10 Most Expensive Stadiums in Africa shows the continent’s growing ambition in sports and infrastructure development. These stadiums are more than football arenas—they are cultural landmarks and sources of national pride.

While some face challenges of maintenance and underuse, their contribution to sports, tourism, and Africa’s global image is undeniable. As Africa continues to grow, more investments in world-class facilities will further cement its place on the global sports map.