[2][3] It is used mostly for football matches, and serves as the home stadium of Al-Najaf FC and Naft Al-Wasat SC.

[6] The final design by Kansas City-based 360 Architecture won the competition, and was selected by the Iraqi Ministry of Youth and Sports.

[9] The religious ornaments and mosaics on the outer façade are inspired by Imam Ali's mosque which is 10 km from the stadium.

[10] Al Najaf International Stadium has been nominated among five other finalists to win the 2019 Prix Versailles for the most beautiful sporting facility in the world (architecture and design).

[11][12] The committee considered various criteria including innovation, creativeness, attention to landscaping, recognition of local, natural and cultural patrimony, and environmental efficiency.