FEATURE has secured networking projects at two of these stadiums and is actively pursuing further opportunities. Together, these developments demonstrate how sports infrastructure is becoming a strategic investment in connectivity, tourism and the wider digital economy.
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in stadiums, entertainment destinations and tourism infrastructure. What role does networking play in delivering the kind of digital fan experience these new venues are expected to provide?
The network is the invisible foundation of the modern fan experience. Every fan-facing technology, from mobile applications and IPTV to wayfinding, digital payments and in-seat services, depends on reliable, highperformance connectivity.
In a venue with 90,000 spectators, the network must be capable of supporting thousands of people streaming, sharing content and making transactions simultaneously. It must also provide the resilience and performance required for operational systems that cannot afford disruption.
AI and analytics add another dimension by enabling venues to understand fan behaviour and deliver more personalised experiences. Location and spatial intelligence can support seamless navigation, reduce congestion and help optimise dwell time across the venue.
The network is therefore no longer simply a back-of-house utility. It is part of the product that the venue delivers. Before the game, it supports e-ticketing, transport management and admission queues. During the event, it enables wayfinding, in-seat food and beverage ordering and personalised digital signage. After the game, it can assist with vehicle location and continued engagement with fans.
The result is a connected experience that extends well beyond the match itself, while
Jacob Chacko, Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa at HPE Networking www. intelligentcio. com
INTELLIGENT CIO AFRICA
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