R240 million upgrade to one of South Africa’s top World Cup stadiums

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28-10-2024
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The Moses Mabhida Stadium in eThekwini is set to undergo a R236 million upgrade, introducing numerous new features in hopes of making the stadium a premier tourist destination.

eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba said that the 60,000-seater stadium—built ahead of the 2010 Soccer World Cup—will undergo a routine maintenance programme while introducing numerous new features to “ensure that it remains world-class.”

The versatile basket-shaped stadium frequently serves as a venue for local Premier League finals.

This year, the Moses Mabhida Stadium hosted the Nedbank Cup quarter-final and the MTN 8 Cup, attracting ~ 60,000 fans.

A few months ago, the council approved R236 million to rehabilitate the stadium which has been in existence for 15 years, explained Xaba at a media briefing on 24 October 2024, .

Mayor Cyril Xaba conducting an oversight visit to the stadium. Photo: Supplied.

“We are introducing these features to make our iconic stadium one of the must-see sites in the city,” he added in hopes of reigniting tourism in eThekwini.

The upgrades include:

• Enhanced viewing platform with a 60% larger floor area and a cantilevered glass floor for an “air walk” experience


• Redesigned sky car with extended travel time and accessibility for individuals with disabilities


• Upgrades to the Big Swing for improved access to the launch platform


• New Zip Line ending at People’s Park for post-adventure refreshments


• Compression ring walk offering panoramic views and sea-facing bungee jump options

The upgrades will also include improvements to the arch and bowl lighting with reinstated arch lighting and option for colour-themed lighting.

“We have no doubt these upgrades will not only guarantee the commercial viability of the stadium, but they will also improve the safety of residents and visitors,” said the mayor.

“This is in line with our vision of building resilient infrastructure that is aligned with evolving technological advancements,” he added.

The refurbishments are expected to be ready for the 2025 festive season.

“We want to assure all our stakeholders that the venue is structurally sound, and it will continue to host major events while the repairs are ongoing [which] has been approved and certified by engineers,” said Xaba.