The design is unique and specific to Iraq. It reflects Arab architectural influences as well as age-old regional icons, recalling a proud past while serving as a bridge to a modern era focused on renewal.

The project was initiated by Iraq's selection to host the 2013 Gulf Cup of Nations, or Khaleeji, a biennial soccer tournament for Arab countries. The centerpiece of the initial, $500 million phase of the project is the 65,000-seat main stadium, which is surrounded by a man-made lake in the shape of Iraq. The first phase also includes a 10,000-seat secondary stadium, four training soccer fields, team housing, and a fire s tation, among other facilities and infrastructure. 360 Architecture also master planned the site.

The project is the largest of its kind that the country has ever built. It is a design-build project, with Iraq's Ministry of Youth and Sport as the client, 360 Architecture teamed with Iraqi contractor Al-Jiburi, and design members from around the world. Working across numerous borders, not only geography but also language, security and technology, the team is meeting an aggressive schedule in a region recovering from war and unaccustomed to construction projects of this complexity.