Construction is underway in Bishkek on what will be the largest sports facility in Central Asia — an international-class stadium built to FIFA standards. Designed to hold 51,000 spectators, the arena is expected to become the flagship of Kyrgyzstan’s sports infrastructure.
Bishkek Arena
Plans for the stadium were first announced in April 2024. The project is located in the village of Orok, on the outskirts of the capital. Its most distinctive element is a sweeping, circular design modeled after the traditional Kyrgyz yurt, a nomadic dwelling.
The eight-level structure will measure 280 meters in diameter and 70 meters in height, meeting updated Asian Football Confederation requirements. Originally planned to seat 45,000, the capacity was later increased to 51,000 to accommodate major events such as the Asian Cup’s opening and final matches.
FIFA standards
The stadium’s scale is impressive: a total green area of 70,000 square meters, a development footprint of 180,000 square meters and a stadium floor space of 85,000 square meters. Plans include a covered parking facility for 3,600 vehicles and 60,000 square meters of technical and service areas.
The field will feature an A-category LED lighting system under FIFA’s classification and hybrid turf technology suitable for international matches.
The venue will be part of a larger multi-use sports facility that will also include shopping centers and sports retail spaces covering 35,000 square meters.
Construction timeline
Completion is scheduled for fall 2026. The reinforced concrete frame is slated for completion in 13 months, followed by seven months for roof installation and electromechanical systems and six months for finishing work. Local media report that construction is on schedule.
Most building materials are being sourced from Kyrgyz suppliers, and the majority of workers are local. However, architects, engineers and designers from Turkey are leading key aspects of the build, with additional consulting from experts in Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Cost and oversight
Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov has said the project’s funding was secured before work began. While the official price tag has not been released, local media have cited an estimated cost of $60 million.
In addition to the president, oversight is being provided by Kamchybek Tashiev, chairman of the State Committee for National Security and president of the Kyrgyz Football Union.
Officials are already calling the arena a symbol of Kyrgyzstan’s sports revival and a potential host for major international tournaments. The government also anticipates a boost in tourism once the stadium opens.
