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World Cup 2022: A Complete Guide to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar 

Whether you're tuning in from home or traveling to Qatar, we cover everything you need to know.

For months we have been counting down to the much-anticipated men's FIFA World Cup 2022, kicking off November 20, where qualifying teams from around the globe are gathering in Qatar to claim the coveted trophy. And Traveler is here to answer all of your World Cup 2022 questions. After all, whether you're a huge soccer fan or just enjoy the excitement the Cup brings out, the quadrennial event has an undeniable draw for travel-lovers. So, mark your calendars: The event will begin at 5 p.m. local time (9 a.m. EST) on Sunday, November 20, with matches leading up to the final showdown at 6 p.m. local time (10 a.m. EST) on Sunday, December 18.

While many have stake in their team winning, there's a lot of hype on Brazil and England this year. Or will France , who won the last men's FIFA World Cup hosted by Russia in 2018, make their country proud once again? No matter who wins, the global soccer competition is always a thrill to follow, even if you aren't making it to Qatar . Below, we answer every question you may have about the World Cup 2022, for both those planning a game-chasing trip to the event and those tuning in from elsewhere in the world. 

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

  All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When is the World Cup 2022?

So, when exactly does the World Cup start? The 2022 World Cup will begin with an opening ceremony scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. local time, (9 a.m. EST) Sunday, November 20, followed by the starting match between host country Qatar and Ecuador kicking off at 7 p.m. local time (11 a.m. EST) on Sunday, November 20. There will be a total of 64 games played over five rounds: The group stage, a round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final. The group stage matches will play out until Friday, December 2, then the round of 16 games will run from December 3 to December 6. The quarter-finals will take place on December 9 and December 10, and the semi-finals will consist of two matches—one on December 13, and one on December 14. The final match and closing ceremony will both take place on Sunday, December 18, with the last game starting at 6 p.m. local time (10 a.m. EST).

Where is the World Cup 2022? 

The 2022 World Cup is hosted by Qatar. The matches are going to be held between eight venues in the capital city of Doha , and the surrounding cities of Lusail, Al Khor, Al Rayyan, and Al Wakrah. Each of the Qatar World Cup stadiums completed construction in the past two years explicitly for the games, with the exception of the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, which was build in 1976.

The opening ceremony will take place at the 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, just outside of Doha, and the closing ceremony will be held at the 80,000-capacity Lusail stadium, also near Doha. 

Who is performing at the opening ceremony?

More than wanting to know when and where the opening ceremony will take place, the Internet is buzzing with an even bigger question: Who will perform at the World Cup opening ceremony? Ahead of official announcements from FIFA, K-Pop sensation BTS confirmed that Jung Kook, one of the band's seven members, will be performing at the ceremony. 

CBS Sports report that Lil Baby, who recorded a song titled “The World Is Yours to Take” for the 2022 World Cup soundtrack, will also be performing. The Telegraph has reported that Canadian actress Nora Fatehi is expected to sing the tournament's official song at the opening ceremony. Dua Lipa, The Cure, and Rod Stewart have all confirmed via their individual Twitter accounts that they are not performing. There's also online gossip of a Shakira performance—she recorded the World Cup 2010 theme song—though that has been chased by reports in Spanish media that she has since backed out. 

Other performances expected to take place during the Cup, according to the Telegraph, are concerts at the Doha Golf Club by British singer Robbie Williams (on December 8), the Black Eyed Peas performance (on November 20), and J Balvin  (on November 24). 

Who qualified for the World Cup?

There's always a lot of talk—and national pride—as we find out who qualified for the World Cup. There are 32 World Cup qualified teams representing every division: Africa (CAF), Asia (AFC), Europe (UEFA), North/Central America & Caribbean (CONCACAF), Oceania (OFC), and South America (CONMEBOL). FIFA has grouped the qualified teams into eight draws (for the sports laymen, that means the teams in each draw, or group, will face off against each other first):

Group A: Qatar, Ecuador, Senegal, Netherlands Group B: England, Iran, United States, Wales Group C: Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Poland Group D: France, Australia, Denmark, Tunisia Group E: Spain, Costa Rica, Germany, Japan Group F: Belgium, Canada, Morocco, Croatia Group G: Brazil, Serbia, Switzerland, Cameroon Group H: Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay, South Korea

Who is the favorite to win the world cup 2022 in Qatar?

Brazil, who has won the most World Cups with five trophies, is the favorite to win the 2022 World Cup, according to the latest polls by Bet365 . They are followed by Argentina , France, England, and Spain.

What are the chances of the United States winning the World Cup 2022?

We are the underdog.

Odds are very low that the U.S. wins the 2022 World Cup, according to Draft Kings . While there is always hope, the teams that the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is up against in group B are in much better standing. The USMNT is slightly favored to make it past the first group stage, though England is the rightful favorite to win the group. 

Where can I watch the World Cup?

The World Cup 2022 will be available live on FOX Sports and FS1 in the United States—available in English, as well as in Spanish on Telemundo. Both of these channels are available to stream on major platforms like Peacock TV , Hulu , YouTube TV , and Sling , among others.  

Where can I stream the World Cup 2022 for free?

The ad-supported streaming platform Tubi will broadcast all World Cup matches free of charge. There's a catch though, the matches will only be available as a replay, on-demand.  

(As you probably know, the streaming services above offer free trials—many of one month—which would make watching the 2022 World Cup free during the trial period.)

When is the next World Cup?

The FIFA Women's World Cup is taking place next year in Australia and New Zealand , from July 20, 2023 to August 20, 2023. There's still time to plan a memorable trip to watch the U.S. women's team compete—a team that is actually likely to take home the win, yet again. 

The next men's World Cup will be in 2026. For the first time ever, there will be three host countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Host cities will be Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey, Toronto and Vancouver. Tickets haven't gone on sale yet, but keep an eye on this page for details.

The Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, will host a number of World Cup 2022 games.

Traveling to the World Cup 2022?

Flights to qatar.

Most Qatar flights are offered on Doha's own, Qatar Airways . The airline partners with Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, JetBlue, and more. Of the four Qatar airports, only one is international: Doha's Hamad International Airport (DOH). Non-stop flights to Doha take 12 hours and 35 minutes from New York City , 15 hours and 40 minutes from Los Angeles , and 6 hours and 35 from London . 

What to do in Qatar

All international travelers heading into Qatar will need to fly via Doha, and that's a good thing—the city has rich offerings when it comes to fantastic hotels, world class restaurants, and cultural draws. There has been a ton of activity on the museum front, for starters: the Jean Nouvel-designed National Museum of Qatar opened in 2019, the very on-theme Olympic Museum opened this April ahead of the Cup, and the latest, the Museum of Islamic Art—credited with establishing Doha as a creative hub—reopened this October in a five-story limestone building designed by I.M. Pei. 

When you've finished working your way through the above, make a point to shop at Souq Waqif, a century-old shopping landmark, or earmark a day for a desert safari to get you out of the city. Read more about the best things to do in Doha in our just-updated guide, below. 

Qatar hotels

As with most major global sporting events, the host country prepares for years to show off the best of their nation. That usually means improving infrastructure, building top-of-the-line sports arenas, and, yes, investing in luxurious, world-class accommodations. Given that this is the biggest event ever hosted by Qatar, U.S. heavy-hitters and international brands went all in. 

While new properties like the Banyan Tree Doha and Zulal Wellness Resort are making big splashes, the grande dame in the city has long been the St. Regis Qatar . Known for housing some of the best restaurants in the urban center, like Chef Ho Yiek Chung's contemporary Chinese spot Hakkasan, the Marriott property is an ideal choice. If you want to stay closer to the Lusail Stadium, where the final—and biggest—matches will take place, the U-shaped architectural feat of the Katara Towers (one side is Raffles Doha , the other Fairmont Doha ) is opening right in time for the action. Or, check into the expansive Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha set to open in October 2023. 

Get the full rundown on the best hotels in Doha through our new guide, where we cover wellness resorts, historic guesthouses, and much more. 

Qatar restaurants

If you were planning on just grabbing a quick bite at the hotel between matches, think again. The food scene in Doha has undergone somewhat of a renaissance as of late (not unrelated to that aforementioned investment poured into every corner of the hospitality sector ahead of the Cup). Expect to find local flavors like spiced karak tea and machboos (reminiscent of biryani) in the form of Qatari street food, and elevated dishes at restaurants like Jiwan by Alain Ducasse, which serves Qatari dishes with French flair (think desserts that combine strawberry and labneh, for example). There are of course more international flavors, such as Syrian food at Damasca One , and Sri Lankan at contemporary Nourlaya . And if it is great hotel dining you're after? Make a beeline for Jean-George Vongerichten’s South American Curiosa in the Four Seasons hotel on West Bay, or Gaston Acurio's ceviche haven La Mar at the InterContinental . 

Get more tips on the best restaurants in Doha, Qatar , through our complete dining guide. 

What are Qatar's travel requirements?

As for the standard Qatar travel requirements, your passport will need to be valid at least six months after your return date. Though Qatar usually requires a tourist visa upon entry (it costs roughly $27), only travelers with a ticket or approved by someone with a ticket can enter the country around the World Cup 2022, from November 1 to December 22. If you have a World Cup game ticket, or are traveling with a ticket holder, apply for your Hayya Card before traveling—this will function as your visa for entry to the country, and ticket into the World Cup stadiums. (It also grants fee metro and bus access in the country.) Travelers without a Hayya Card will not be permitted entry.

Additionally, COVID-19 travel restrictions for U.S. visitors to Qatar have been essentially eliminated—a vaccination certificate is no longer required to enter the country, nor are negative test results. Travelers no longer need to use the Ehteraz health certification app upon arrival, but are required to show it if/when entering public and private healthcare facilities. 

Keep tabs on the most up-to-date Qatar travel requirements and restrictions on the Qatar's website.

What is Qatar's weather like?

In November and December, temperatures are very pleasant at an average of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. While the country gets quite hot in the Summer months (think 106 degrees Fahrenheit), from November to March the weather is warm and perfect for travel.

What is the currency in Qatar?

The Qatari riyal is the official currency in the Middle Eastern country. At the time of publishing, the exchange rate is USD 1 = QAR 3.64. As is always the case when traveling abroad, try to bring at least $50 to $100 per person, per day—you never know when a restaurant isn't going to take your credit card or when an ATM might be hard to find. 

Can you drink in Qatar?

Yes, alcohol is available at licensed restaurants and bars for those over the age of 21. Each stadium will have areas where sports goers can grab a beer or Jack Daniels. Drinking is illegal outside of these licensed spaces (like, in your hotel room). 

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Qatar Airways Holidays Launch FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Fan Travel Packages

‎ 29 September 2021

With the option for refund and booking flexibility, fans can pick their team of choice to cheer now, or change teams later

Packages include official match tickets, return flights, hotels and more

DOHA, Qatar –  With just over a year to go until the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ kicks-off, Qatar Airways Holidays is excited to announce the launch of its unique fan travel packages, inclusive of   match tickets, return flights and accommodation options. Fans can now guarantee their match tickets to support their favourite team during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ with the option to choose additional services to explore the stunning host country.

With a few easy steps to follow, fans across the world will need to first join Qatar Airways Privilege Club, to have access to unique travel packages with booking flexibility and get their seats reserved at their preferred matches.

The journey then begins with fans selecting their favourite team, whose participation in the tournament will be decided based on ongoing FIFA World Cup™ qualifiers. In the event that the chosen team does not qualify for the tournament, a full refund option will be offered, or fans have the flexibility to choose a different team’s matches (subject to availability).

To guarantee their experience fans can choose from seven-tiered travel packages, with attractive prices starting from USD $3,800*. Guests wishing to discover Qatar during their trip can also choose to add supplementary services such as airport transfers and sightseeing tours.

Each fan can book a total of seven matches by combining more than one package. In the case that their  favourite team is defeated in the advanced tournament stages, tickets will be issued to matches of one of the prevailing teams from the same group or knock-out path.

Additionally, fans can specify how many guests they are travelling with and the number of rooms they would like to stay in. They can choose from standard to premium accommodation based on their budget. To book or learn more, please visit:  https://www.qatarairways.com/app/fifa2022/

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “It makes us proud to be the Official Airline for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and for the first time ever, the Middle East will take centre stage with Qatar set to host the world’s most prestigious sporting event. We anticipate unprecedented demand throughout the tournament, and as part of our agreement with FIFA, fans can rely on us to enjoy a seamless journey from more than 140 destinations across the globe. The fan travel packages will guarantee customers a fulfilling experience where every step of their journey will be hassle-free, and with a few easy steps, they can secure seats for their favourite team’s matches.”

The travel packages are currently live and accessible in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Romania, Spain, Sweden and Thailand. Additional markets will be added in the coming months (subject to licensing agreements). 

The airline sponsored the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup and the UEFA Euro 2020™, and has an extensive global sports partnership portfolio that includes football-governing bodies such as FIFA, CONCACAF and CONMEBOL. As FIFA’s Official Partner, Qatar Airways has sponsored mega events including the 2019 and 2020 editions of the FIFA Club World Cup™, and will sponsor the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. Qatar Airways also sponsors some of the world’s biggest football clubs including Al Sadd SC, Boca Juniors, FC Bayern München, K.A.S. Eupen, and Paris Saint-Germain.

The national carrier of the State of Qatar continues to rebuild its network, which currently stands at over 140 destinations. With more frequencies being added to key hubs, Qatar Airways offers unrivalled connectivity to passengers, making it easy for them to connect to a destination of their choice, seamlessly.

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was announced as the ‘Airline of the Year’ by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax, in addition to securing five additional awards including World’s Best Business Class, World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge, World’s Best Business Class Airline Seat, World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering and Best Airline in the Middle East. The airline continues to stand alone at the top of the industry having won the main prize for an unprecedented sixth time (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021). The airline’s hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), was also recently recognised as the ‘Best Airport in the World 2021’, ranking at number one in the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2021.

In addition to this, Qatar Airways is the first global airline in the world to achieve the prestigious 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating by Skytrax. This follows the success of Hamad International Airport (HIA) as the first airport in the Middle East and Asia to be awarded a Skytrax 5-Star COVID-19 Airport Safety Rating. These awards provide assurance to passengers around the world that the airline’s health and safety standards are subject to the highest possible standards of professional, independent scrutiny and assessment. For full details of all the measures that have been implemented on board and at HIA, please visit  qatarairways.com/safety .

FAN TRAVEL PACKAGES

*Starting price per person in a double room for comparison purpose only. This is subject to change depending on your city of departure and exchange rate.

About Qatar Airways

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Business Class’ for the tenth time at the 2023 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. The airline continues to be synonymous with excellence, also taking home, Best Airline in the Middle East, World's Best Business Class Lounge and World's Best Business Class Lounge Dining at the prestigious awards held during the 2023 Paris Air Show. Qatar Airways is an unprecedented seven-time winner of the “World’s Best Airline” voted by Skytrax (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021 and 2022). As leaders in industry innovation and digital adoption, Qatar Airways was recently voted the world’s best airline website by World Travel Tech Awards.

Qatar Airways was the first Airline in the Middle East to be certified to the highest level of IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme, based on recognised environmental management system principles (such as ISO 14001). As an inaugural signatory to the Buckingham Palace Declaration in March 2016, Qatar Airways became the first airline globally to be certified to the industry standard for the prevention of illegal wildlife trafficking in aviation.

Qatar Airways currently flies to nearly 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, voted by Skytrax as the ‘World’s Best Airport’ in 2021 and 2022 consecutively. In 2023, Hamad International Airport was ranked by Skytrax as the second-best airport in the world, and received the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ accolade for the ninth time in a row, as well as ‘World’s Best Airport Shopping’.

Contact details

• Qatar Airways Group
• Corporate Communications Department
• [email protected]
• +974 4022 2200

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World Cup 2022: What to do, see and eat in Qatar

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It was 115 degrees on the summer day I arrived in Qatar. That answered my first question: Why had FIFA, among the most hidebound and conservative of international sports bodies, agreed to buck nearly a century of tradition by playing the World Cup in the winter?

The second question was a bit more complicated: Why had Qatar, a tiny, conservative, Islamic emirate in the Persian Gulf worked so hard and spent so much to play host to the tournament?

The World Cup kicks off Nov. 20 and over the following 28 days, more than 1.2 million people are expected to flood into a country that is smaller than Connecticut and has a population about equal to Chicago’s. The country and its unfailingly polite people have neither the space nor the patience to deal with more than a million rowdy soccer fans, many of whom know nothing of the country or its culture.

That, however, is the point, said Fatma Al-Nuaimi, executive communications director of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, the local World Cup organizing body.

“A lot of people will be coming here and they might have their own perceptions from what they read and what they hear,” she said after a late dinner at an Armenian-Lebanese restaurant in the trendy Katara Cultural Village, a sprawling waterfront collection of shops, restaurants and museums. “When you come here, it’s totally different. You learn about new things, new culture, new traditions. It gives you a different perspective. For a lot of travelers, this is what they would be keen to look for and to explore and to enrich the experience they have outside the stadium.”

But will it be a Faustian bargain? By law and custom, alcohol consumption is tightly controlled in Qatar, homosexuality is prohibited, public displays of affection are a serious faux pas and some labor regulations are just a small step above indentured servitude.

To welcome the world, the country has given in on all those things. And while that was done to appease international critics, it hasn’t played well at home.

Then there’s the organization.

The final test event in September, a soccer match that drew 78,000 people, was beset by a series of logistical disasters, from long lines and air conditioning and PA system failures to concession stands selling out of water by halftime. In response, hundreds of civilians, including diplomats summoned back from overseas, have been called up for mandatory military service operating security checkpoints at World Cup stadiums.

But there’s also an upside. Qatar has become one of richest countries in the world thanks to large deposits of oil and natural gas, resources the government knows are nonrenewable. So it has already begun the long and laborious task of diversifying the economy.

Two years before the controversial vote that awarded the World Cup to Qatar, the country launched National Vision 2030, a multipronged plan to invest $200 billion in economic, social, human and environmental development and one designed, in part, to make the desert emirate a global destination for tourism, education and culture.

Qatar also invested heavily in sports tourism, staging more than 600 international events in the last decade, from the world track championships and a Formula 1 Grand Prix to international bowling, squash, table tennis and equestrian events. That has hurried along infrastructure spending on highway and light-rail construction and expansion of Hamad International Airport.

“These mega-events, there is part of it where it’s actually helping bridge gaps and cultures and bringing people closer together,” Al-Nuaimi said. “There is always a misperception of this part of the world, the Arab world, the Muslim world. Having 1 million fans coming to Qatar from all parts of the world, they will see a different image and having firsthand experience of the country itself.”

The real goal, she said, is to get the world to come sample Qatar, learn about its rich history and culture and hopefully shed prejudices.

But whether Qatar is ready or not, the 32-team tournament will kick off next month and if you’re one of the more than 2.8 million people who have tickets — or if you plan on skipping the madness and visiting the country sometime after the tournament — here’s a guide to help you navigate a most compelling and complicated country.

What you need to get into Qatar

If you don’t have World Cup tickets by now, you’re probably going to have a hard time getting them. More than 90% of the approximately 3 million tickets had been claimed by mid-October, but FIFA is promising to continue selling at FIFA.com/tickets, through the end of the tournament on Dec. 18. Some tickets can also be found on the secondary market, although FIFA is urging fans to stay away from unauthorized websites.

But a ticket won’t be enough to get you into a game — or even the country. For that you’ll also need a digital Hayya fan ID card, which can be applied for at hayya.qatar2022.qa . World Cup visitors will need a valid ticket application number and a Hayya voucher code to book accommodations.

To enter the country under normal circumstances (a.k.a. when there is no World Cup), U.S. citizens need a visa waiver, also known as visa on arrival. You don’t have to apply for that ahead of time as the entire process takes place when you arrive in Qatar. You will need a valid passport, good for at least six months, confirmation of a return ticket and a debit or credit card to pay the $28 fee for a tourist visa. The visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended.

Starting Nov. 1, you will not need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination and a negative PCR test to enter the country.

Here’s a tip for those traveling to Qatar on Qatar Airways: The airline offers something called Al Maha Services. For an additional fee, a dedicated airline employee will guide travelers through expedited immigration and customs formalities both on arrival and at departure. That can be a lifesaver, especially after the nearly 17-hour flight from Los Angeles.

Where to stay

Despite a massive construction boom during the 12-year run-up to the World Cup, Qatar has just more than 40,000 hotel rooms, far short of the inventory needed for an event like the World Cup. So the country has come up with a number of novel options that include housing visitors in fan villages and Bedouin-style desert tents. There are also apartments and villas with one to six bedrooms at prices ranging from $84 to $875 a night, and 4,000 staterooms on two cruise ships anchored in Doha Bay.

More than a half-a-dozen airlines have added 160 short daily shuttle flights from Dubai, Jeddah, Kuwait, Muscat and Riyadh, allowing fans to stay in neighboring countries and fly into Doha before and after games.

If all that sounds like too much of a hassle, or if you really don’t like soccer, visiting Qatar after the World Cup is a breeze.

What to do and see in Qatar besides the World Cup

Sampling Qatar means sampling its history, and Qataris are only too happy to share. My favorite haunt, a place I couldn’t spend enough time in, was the Souq Waqif, the city’s ancient marketplace.

A maze of narrow alleyways linked to a wide main plaza, the Souq long served as a trading post for Bedouin arriving by camel and travelers in small boats. Its merchants still gather every day, as they have for centuries, dressed in the traditional long white thobe and a loose headdress called a gutra , drinking strong Qatari coffee and arguing about the day’s news while selling traditional garments, jewels, spices, handicrafts and souvenirs.

The Souq, now easily accessible on the metro’s gold line, is also home to an array of dining options featuring food from Thailand, Turkey, India, Iran, Italy, Lebanon, Latin America, Morocco and Syria and elsewhere.

On one edge of the marketplace is the Falcon Souq — the word “ souq ” translates as marketplace — where you can view, photograph and even hold the birds, which have a revered place in Qatari culture. Nearby is a state-of-the-art falcon hospital and just beyond that is a camel pen, home to dozens of animals.

If the Souq Waqif is a real-life history lesson, in recent years Qatar has also built several world-class museums to teach the country’s culture and heritage in a more formal way.

The National Museum of Qatar, which opened in 2019, is worth a visit just for the stunning work of architect Jean Nouvel, whose design was inspired by the desert rose. Inside, the museum tells Qatar’s story in a milelong journey through a series of galleries that provide multisensory experiences from multiple perspectives.

Equally impressive is the nearby Museum of Islamic Art, another architectural wonder by I.M. Pei, who was coaxed out of retirement at 91 to design the building. Constructed on an island off an artificial peninsula, the museum sits at the end of the Corniche, Doha’s scenic bayside promenade, and is accessible by two small bridges.

The 480,000-square-foot museum, which reopened in early October after an 18-month renovation, houses more than 14 centuries of Islamic art from three continents, including metal work, ceramics, jewelry, textile and glass, as well as a priceless Quranic manuscript.

A more unique experience can be had at the Msheireb Museums, four historic heritage houses in the old part of the capital dedicated to the cultural and social development of Qatar. Of the four the Bin Jelmood House, which focuses on the history of slavery in the Arab Gulf, a practice that wasn’t outlawed in Qatar until 1952, is a must-see.

Inside, a projector beams a passage from an 1864 letter written by Abraham Lincoln: “If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong.” The exhibitions are particularly timely since much of Qatar’s World Cup infrastructure was built by migrant workers employed under the kafala system, an exploitative and barely-legal form of indentured servitude that, in many ways, replaced slavery. International criticism ahead of the World Cup led to reform of the kafala system and a new minimum-wage structure, though abuses remain widespread.

Another unique gem is the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum housed in Khalifa International Stadium, site of eight World Cup matches. At more than 200,000 square feet, the museum, which opened in March, is one of the largest in the world dedicated to sports. Among the items in the collection are a soccer ball from England’s 1888 FA Cup final, the bobsled used by the Jamaican team in the 1988 Winter Games, a baseball bat from Babe Ruth, boxing glove from Manny Pacquiaoand a Steffi Graf tennis racquet.

And while the focus of the interactive exhibits and artifacts is on global sport, the museum includes sections on such traditional Qatari favorites as falconry, pearl diving and camel racing .

Speaking of history, before the discovery of oil and natural gas Qatar’s economy was built around pearls. In the latter half of the 19th century, nearly half the population was involved in the pearl trade, with divers sailing dhow boats into the warm gulf waters and descending as deep as 130 feet to harvest clams for the treasure they hid inside.

That’s gone now but the old dhow harbor remains. Bay cruises in the long, thin-hulled boats with Doha’s futuristic skyline as a backdrop are a good way to mix the past and present.

Part of that modern skyline is the Pearl, a small man-made island divided into 12 districts of residential towers, hotels, luxury-brand shops from Maserati and Rolls-Royce showrooms to trendy restaurants and cafes offering everything from South American and Lebanese cuisine to confectioneries.

Between the Pearl and the towering office buildings of the West Bay is the Katara Cultural Village, home to restaurants, art galleries and cultural organizations as well as an open-air amphitheater , an opera house, a multipurpose cinema, a multipurpose conference hall and a beach.

Want to live the history of Qatar? Well, time recedes quickly when you leave the city for the desert. Consider a half-day sunset safari, camel rides, sandboarding or a tour of the inland sea, a Persian Gulf inlet at the border between Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

During the World Cup, more than 90 special events including music festivals, cultural displays and street performances will also take place.

Where to eat

Qatari cuisine is mix of traditional Arab food. Machboos, the national dish, consists of rice and vegetables and either lamb or chicken. Seafood and dates are also staples. But given the ethnic makeup — more than 2.5 million of the country’s 2.9 million residents are not Qatari citizens — the country has become a gastronomic melting pot featuring world-class offerings from dozens of countries.

As mentioned earlier, the Souq Waqif has a wide array of options served in a comfortable but traditional (read: budget-conscious) style. I’d recommend starting there since even the most finicky palates will find something to their tastes.

The Katara Cultural Village is another reasonably priced food court worth roaming, with cafes, chocolatiers, sandwich and fast-food places serving Greek, Italian, Egyptian, Mexican dishes and more, as well as upscale restaurants offering Palestinian, Western European, Italian and Asian food.

My favorite place was Mamig, a home-style restaurant — the name means grandmother in Armenian — serving a deep menu of Armenian and Lebanese offerings.

Many of Doha’s pricier restaurants are located in hotels, beginning with the Saffron, which offers both delectable Thai food and a breathtaking view from the top floor of the 31-story Banyan Tree hotel in Mushaireb, the heart of the old city.

The Spice Market in the Doha Hotel and Residences in the West Bay serves Southeast Asian-inspired fare from chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Also in the West Bay, Hakkasan, a Michelin-starred brand with locations worldwide, serves Chinese food in a uniquely designed dining room or on the terrace.

Nobu, the Japanese restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel on the Corniche, offers a unique experience beginning with your entrance up a floating driveway, over a bridge crossing a reflecting pool and into a three-story building designed by David Rockwell. The most popular dishes are black cod yuzu miso and wagyu beef tacos.

In the trendy Pearl District, Toro Toro serves authentic Latin American dishes from chef Richard Sandoval before a stunning view of the bay. Sandoval has another place in the West Bay called Zengo that serves Asian fare, including sushi, sashimi and curry on the 61st floor of the Kempinski Residences & Suites.

Where to drink

Qatar is a Muslim country where Sharia law holds sway, so alcohol consumption is tightly controlled and it cannot be purchased in stores.

Licensed hotel bars and restaurants are the only places allowed to sell alcohol, but not all of them do. It’s not available in the Souq Waqif, for example, and of the restaurants listed above, Mamig does not serve alcohol. Call ahead or check a restaurant’s policy before making reservations — and if you do find a place that serves alcohol, be prepared to pay $15 or more for a simple beer unless you take advantage of happy hour, which most bars and restaurants offer.

Local laws have been eased somewhat for the World Cup, with organizers allowing beer consumption at the Arcadia Electronic Music Festival, a fan fest about two miles outside Doha, will feature three performance stages and beer will be served there between 10 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Beer is also available at the official FIFA fan festival at Doha’s Al Bidda Park and to ticket-holders at select areas inside the perimeters of World Cup stadiums prior to kickoff and after the final whistle. Only nonalcoholic beverages will be served inside the stadiums themselves.

Keep in mind there is zero tolerance for drinking in public outside these areas and being drunk in public is a crime in Qatar.

Need more information? The Qatar 2022 Contact Center offers 24/7 support in eight languages.

Additionally, from Nov. 1 to Dec. 25, there will be a Consular Services Center at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center which will provide direct access to embassy staff from the 32 qualified countries and countries with the highest number of ticket sales. The center will operate daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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Guide to Qatar: Cities, stadiums, attractions and activities

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With futuristic cities, desert adventures and endless shopping opportunities, Qatar has something for everyone

From sightseeing trips and nature tours that cover all aspects of local life to unlimited shopping opportunities, Qatar offers visitors a wide variety of activities, with something for everyone.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ will undoubtedly afford football fans everywhere the chance to enjoy a unique experience in this Gulf country.

Here are five things fans can expect when visiting Qatar during the World Cup.

Generosity and hospitality Generosity and hospitality

Bedouins are known for their hospitality and traditionally sharing their food with their guests. This culture is still deep rooted in Qatari society and permeates all aspects of life in Qatar. Offering Arabic coffee and sweets to guests remains an expression of hospitality. Qatari cuisine is rich and unique, with its dishes influenced over the years by the gastronomical delights of the Indian Subcontinent, Iran, the Levant and North Africa.

Resorts and beaches Resorts and beaches

Qatar has many wonderful resorts where people can relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These include the Sealine Beach Resort, one of the finest coastal strips near the capital. Visitors can also spend time at the Al Ghariya Resort on the seafront, where there are many walk areas like the Doha Corniche, a waterfront promenade extending for several kilometres along Doha Bay in Qatar’s capital.

Islands and water sports Islands and water sports

Given its geographic location, rich marine life, and crystal-clear waters, Qatar is an ideal destination for water sport lovers, who can enjoy fishing trips, rowing boats, water skiing, kitesurfing, paragliding, and scuba diving among shipwrecks or coral reefs. Qatar also has a number of unique islands like Palm Island, the artificial Pearl Island, and the Zekreet peninsula, which boasts picturesque beaches and natural rock formations.

Historical sites and castles Historical sites and castles

Lovers of archaeology and antiquity can see many historical sites telling the story of Qatar’s distant past, such as the UNESCO world heritage site Al Zubarah and its unique fort. There is also the Museum of Islamic Art, Katara Cultural Village, and Souq Waqif, all among Qatar’s most popular tourist attractions. The country is also home to several ancient forts that were used as military or civilian installations, such as the Doha Fort, Barzan Towers and Umm Salal Fort.

Desert adventures and dune challenges Desert adventures and dune challenges

In addition to the spectacular beaches and islands, Qatar also has some beautiful desert and rocky terrain. Visitors can enjoy desert safari trips, ride camels and camp under the stars in a Bedouin tent, or perhaps visit Khor Al Udayd, which features sand dunes in stunning formations and has been dubbed ‘the Inland Sea’. There is also Al Jassasiya, a magnificent area of rock carvings, where visitors can see examples of pre-historic sculptures.

What are Qatar’s COVID, travel requirements for World Cup 2022?

Visitors no longer need a negative COVID test or download the Ehteraz app.

Football fans travelling to Qatar for the World Cup will no longer need to present negative COVID tests and preregister on a government app to enter the country.

The Qatari government has cancelled the majority of travel restrictions related to COVID-19 ahead of the start of the World Cup that kicks off on November 20.

Keep reading

Qatar timeline: from winning the world cup bid in 2010 to now, qatar emir slams ‘ferocious’ campaign against world cup host, how qatar is planning to ensure security at world cup 2022, gcc condemns german minister’s remarks on qatar world cup 2022.

From November 1, travellers no longer need to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or Rapid Antigen tests to enter the country.

Visitors entering Qatar are not required to preregister on the government’s Ehteraz health application before their arrival.

A green health status on Ehteraz is now required only to access the country’s health facilities.

A COVID vaccination certificate is also no longer required to enter Qatar.

The arriving fans, players, officials, staff and media are by far the biggest influx of visitors seen in Qatar, which has a population of approximately 2.9 million.

Qatari citizens and residents also no longer need to take a PCR or rapid antigen test within 24 hours of returning from abroad, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) said.

The measures cover all visitors arriving from November 1, when Qatar will be closed to anyone without a Hayya card – the mandatory document issued to players, officials, staff, media and ticket holders and their guests.

Qatari organisers and football’s governing body, FIFA, have said they want the event to be a sign the world is getting over the devastating pandemic.

But MoPH has previously warned that special measures would be ordered “in the event of a worsening pandemic situation in the country”, such as the emergence of a threatening new variant.

Players and match officials may be forced into a secure “bio-bubble” if COVID cases take off again, with the threat of expulsion from the tournament for those who breach the secure environment, the ministry said last month.

A requirement to wear masks on public transport was scrapped in October and masks are also not compulsory inside the eight World Cup stadiums.

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Thinking About Going to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar? Here’s What to Know.

Tickets are on sale for the world’s most popular sporting event, but concerns over worker exploitation and laws against homosexuality have complicated the decision to attend for some fans.

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By Jeff Z. Klein

The most avidly followed sports event on earth, the FIFA World Cup , returns this fall — another chance to find out if what’s often been said about soccer is true: That 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes, and the Germans always win.

At the last World Cup, in 2018, the Germans didn’t win . The French did, and they’ll be back for this year’s tournament in Qatar, along with their young superstar Kylian Mbappé. So will Argentina’s incomparable Leo Messi and Portugal’s icon Cristiano Ronaldo in what could be their World Cup swan songs. A new star is sure to rise into the footballing firmament this year — will it be Canada’s Alphonso Davies, born to Liberian parents in a Ghanaian refugee camp and raised in Alberta, now shining for Bayern Munich? And how will the Americans do after failing to qualify for the 2018 tournament?

These are some of the many reasons for fans to head to the 64 matches of the 2022 World Cup tournament in Qatar, where the desert heat has pushed the schedule back from its customary summertime window to Nov. 21 to Dec. 18.

For those planning to attend, the time to get tickets and a place to stay is now. But there are also some compelling reasons not to attend. Below, a primer on Qatar 2022: where to go, how to go and, crucially, should you even go at all.

Human rights concerns have clouded this year’s World Cup.

Concerns arose soon after Qatar was named host in 2010. As the tiny Persian Gulf nation rushed to build seven new soccer stadiums, an airport, transit system, hotels, apartments and other infrastructure, allegations quickly followed that many of the country’s 2 million migrant workers were being forced to endure deplorably dangerous conditions.

The human rights organization Amnesty International detailed “ rampant ” exploitation and abuse, with reports of migrant laborers being unpaid and working excessive hours, often in oppressive heat. The country responded to the scrutiny by introducing labor reforms in recent years, and tournament organizers say that they have improved conditions for workers.

The country’s treatment of L.G.B.T.Q. people has also sparked criticism. Qatar has said it will welcome L.G.B.T.Q. fans at the tournament, but the country’s laws make male homosexuality illegal and punishable by up to three years in prison. Qatar does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil partnerships, and demonstrating for gay rights is prohibited. Even while insisting that L.G.B.T.Q visitors would be accepted, a senior Qatari security official, Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Ansari, said this month that rainbow flags might be confiscated to “protect” fans.

Concerns over Qatar’s human rights record have spurred some of soccer’s leading figures to speak out. Lise Klaveness, the president of Norway’s soccer federation, scolded FIFA for allowing Qatar to host the tournament in a speech this month, calling it “ unacceptable .” Gareth Southgate, the manager of England, called for assurances for the safety of traveling fans. “It would be horrible to think some of our fans feel they can’t go because they feel threatened or they’re worried about their safety,” he said.

A spokesman for the Qatari organizers said in an email that Qatar has hosted other sporting events since it was awarded the rights to the World Cup without incident. “Everyone will be welcome to Qatar in 2022,” he wrote. “FIFA and Qatar are committed to delivering a discrimination free tournament that is welcoming to all.”

So, you want to attend. How will this year’s World Cup tournament work?

This year’s World Cup comprises 32 teams, 31 of which have survived the two-year qualifying process. (The 32nd, Qatar, qualified automatically as hosts.) They are placed in eight groups of four teams each, with each team guaranteed at least three matches.

The top 16 advance to the knockout phase — followed by the quarterfinals and semifinals — with the world champion crowned at the grand finale at the 80,000-seat Lusail International Stadium in Lusail, a city just north of Doha, the country’s capital, on Dec. 18.

Qatar is by far the smallest country ever to host the tournament, so in some ways this should be the easiest World Cup to attend. All eight stadiums are within a 35-mile radius of Doha, so instead of needing to hop on planes and trains to follow their team over hundreds or even thousands of miles, fans at Qatar 2022 will hardly have to travel at all. In fact, five of the eight stadiums are accessible via the Doha Metro (shuttle buses will take fans to the outlying stadiums).

Even though the tournament will be played in November and December, it will still be hot, with an average high of 85 degrees at the start of the tournament and 75 by the end. But games will kick off in the late afternoon and evening, and all the stadiums (only one has a retractable roof) will be air-conditioned, using solar-powered ventilation and cooling systems designed to keep spectators comfortable.

How do you get tickets?

You can enter the ticket lottery until April 28 at 5 a.m., E.D.T. After that, FIFA will conduct a random selection draw, with successful applicants being notified starting May 31. You can apply for tickets to individual matches, or all matches a particular team will play. There is also a way to reserve provisional tickets if your team advances to the knockout phase.

Prices range from $70 to $220 for individual tickets to group matches and escalate through the knockout phase. Tickets for the championship final will cost from $600 to $1,600.

What about traveling to Qatar?

If you succeed in getting tickets, the next thing to do is get a Hayya Card — a mandatory all-purpose identification card for the World Cup visitor. The Hayya Card (Hayya means “let’s go”) not only acts as an entry visa to Qatar but it must be presented — in addition to your ticket — to get into the stadium on match days.

Several airlines fly from New York to Doha, including American, Finnair, Turkish and Royal Jordanian. Qatar Airways offers more than 100 weekly flights from 12 cities in the United States.

Qatar Airways also offers all-inclusive packages that come with match tickets, flights and accommodations. One package featuring tickets to all the U.S. matches (three group games plus a round-of-16 game, if the United States advances) is advertised from $6,950 per person. Other packages range from $4,050 to $7,300, for the one that includes tickets to the championship final.

As for the country’s coronavirus rules , Qatar currently requires adult visitors to show either proof of vaccination or a certificate of recovery to avoid quarantine, as well as negative results from a test taken within 48 hours of departure. Current in-country regulations require masking on public transport and in stadiums, stores and hotels. Proof of vaccination is required to enter many buildings, and travelers are required to have Ehteraz , a Covid-19 notification app, on their phones.

How about accommodations — can Qatar handle the influx?

Beds may be hard to come by, with just 130,000 rooms for the up to 1.5 million visitors expected over the tournament. Apartment complexes meant to house fans are still being built, many near expressways and in dusty industrial zones.

The Qatar 2022 website has an accommodations portal that is the best place to start your search for lodgings. The website features listings at hotels, apartments and villas or aboard two large cruise ships docked at Doha for the duration of the tournament. There is also an option to stay at “fan villages,” which the site describes as “a variety of casual camping and cabin-style accommodation for the avid fan,” accompanied by a photo of a tent amid vast sand dunes . “More information coming soon,” says the caption.

A recent search on the site for hotel rooms showed nothing available, a disappointment for those who’d fancy a room at the Four Seasons Doha. But even the lowly three-star listings showed no vacancies.

However, some apartments and villas were available. On the low end was an apartment in Al-Wakrah, a suburb of Doha, for $84 a night. On the high end, a villa in Doha was going for $920 a night.

Cabins aboard the MSC Poesia, moored at Doha port, start at $179 on the website; aboard the MSC World Europa they’re $347.

Airbnb had some bookings in Qatar for the World Cup, tending to consist of tents going for $100 a night or apartments starting at $500 a night. Some fans may have to resort to staying in the United Arab Emirates at Abu Dhabi, 330 miles from Doha, or Dubai, 390 miles away, and take a car, bus or plane to the game.

Any other tips for staying in Qatar?

Fans attending the World Cup should be mindful that while the country is making some allowances for the coming influx of tourists, Qatar is a conservative Muslim country and visitors should be aware of its laws and customs.

For instance, it is illegal to drink in public. During the World Cup, alcohol will be available in designated areas, like hotels and special “fan zones,” but public intoxication can carry a six-month jail sentence.

“Visitors (men as well as women) are expected to show respect for local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothing in public,” the official Visit Qatar website advises. “It is generally recommended for men and women to ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.”

Public displays of affection between men and women are “frowned upon,” according to Visit Qatar.

Even if you are a super fan of soccer with the funds to travel, deciding whether to go to this year’s World Cup could be fraught. Remember, you can always wait for 2026, when the World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

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FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 travel and visa options: How to plan your trip to Qatar

Qatar world cup 2022, qatar world cup 2022 travel.

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Qatar offers visa-waivers and visa-free travel options for many nationalities

Dubai: With airlines and hotels amping up travel packages for football lovers heading to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, you may be wondering if you need a visa to travel to the country. Qatar has visa waivers in place for citizens from many countries including india and Pakistan, along with a GCC resident visa option.

Citizens of over 95 countries are eligible for visa-free entry into Qatar. Allowed lengths of stay vary, so check with authorities before you book your trip.

Hayya for travel from November 1 onwards

These visa rules apply for travellers headed to Qatar before November 1.

For those headed to Qatar from November 1, 2022 to January 23, 2023, all travellers need a Hayya card. No other standard visit/travel/visa-free permits will be issued during this period and Hayya will be considered the entry permit.

UAE and GCC residents will also need a Hayya card to enter Qatar starting from November 1.

This also applies to travellers intending to visit Qatar for any other purpose, but those who don’t have match tickets will have to wait to apply for the Hayya card. Qatar authorities are currently encouraging those with confirmed match tickets to apply for Hayya. Their accommodation will also need to be validated during the process.

All football fans intending to attend matches also need Hayya to enter the stadium, including Qatar residents.

So, if you intend to travel before November 1, you could gain entry based on the below categories of visas. If you intend to attend matches, you would still need Hayya to access the stadium.

Visa waiver - 90 days

For nationals of the countries listed below, the waiver will be valid for 180 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 90 days in Qatar, during either a single trip or on multiple trips.

1. Antigua and Barbuda 2. Argentina 3. Austria 4. Bahamas 5. Belgium 6. Bulgaria 7. Croatia 8. Cyprus 9. Czech Republic 10. Denmark 11. Dominican Republic 12. Estonia 13. Finland 14. France 15. Germany 16. Greece 17. Holland 18. Hungary 19. Iceland 20. Italy 21. Latvia 22. Liechtenstein 23. Lithuania 24. Luxembourg 25. Malaysia 26. Malta 27. Netherlands 28. Norway 29. Poland 30. Portugal 31. Romania 32. Serbia 33. Seychelles 34. Slovakia 35. Slovenia 36. Spain 37. Sweden 38. Switzerland 39. Turkey 40. Ukraine

Visa waiver - 30 days + extendable 30 days

For nationals of the countries/regions listed below, the waiver will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 30 days in Qatar, during either a single trip or on multiple trips. This waiver may be extended for a further 30 days.

1. Andorra 2. Australia 3. Azerbaijan 4. Belarus 5. Bolivia 6. Brazil 7. Brunei 8. Canada 9. Chile 10. China 11. Colombia 12. Costa Rica 13. Cuba 14. Ecuador 15. Falkland Islands 16. French Guiana 17. Georgia 18. Guyana 19. Hong Kong, China 20. India 21. Indonesia 22. Iran 23. Ireland 24. Japan 25. Kazakhstan 26. Lebanon 27. Macau 28. Macedonia 29. Maldives 30. Mauritius 31. Mexico 32. Moldova 33. Monaco 34. Montenegro 35. New Zealand 36. Pakistan 37. Panama 38. Paraguay 39. Peru 40. Russia 41. Rwanda 42. San Marino 43. Singapore 44. South Africa 45. South Korea 46. Suriname 47. Thailand 48. United Kingdom 49. United States 50. Uruguay 51. Vatican City 52. Venezuela

India, Pakistan

Citizens of India and Pakistan are eligible for the 30-day visa waiver for single or multiple-entry visits during the 30 days. However, there are some additional rules in place for these travellers.

• Travellers from India and Pakistan should have passport validity for a minimum of six months
• You must carry confirmed return tickets
• Hotel quarantine booking for the number of days advised (one day as of now which ends after negative test)
• The traveller must carry a valid credit card or a minimum cash amount of USD 1400 (varies, so confirm before making travel plans)
• Hotel bookings for the duration of the stay must be booked in advance as well, through the Discover Qatar website.
• Travellers from both countries should have a certificate confirming negative PCR test completed during the 72 hours from the time of arrival
• Travellers must be fully vaccinated with vaccines approved by the Ministry of Public Health and have completed a period of 14 days after the last dose
• Those coming directly from Pakistan should also present a certificate of vaccination against polio.
• Passengers arriving in Qatar must download and activate the Ehteraz app upon arrival at Qatar’s entry ports

Visa-free entry for GCC nationals

GCC nationals do not need a visa to travel to Qatar. This applies to citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. 

No visa-free entry? Try ETA

If you're not eligible for a visa waiver or visa-free entry, you may be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). If you already have a valid residence permit, or visit visa, to Schengen countries, Australia, Canada, UK, USA or New Zealand, you can apply for a free ETA to travel to Qatar.

To get the ETA, you would need to show proof of confirmed accommodation, return/onward travel plans, visa validity (residence or visit based on which ETA is approved) of 30 days, and a copy of your passport ((minimum validity of six months at the time of application).

Qatar tourist visa and GCC resident visa

If you're not eligible for any of the above options, your next best option is to apply for a Qatar tourist visa. The visa cost is QR100 (Dh100.75) and is valid for a stay of 30 days inside the country. The application can be done online through the Qatar Visa Service portal. Make sure you keep your documents and photos ready to upload while applying, and the payment should also be done online.

If you are a GCC resident, you could be eligible for the single-entry GCC resident visa which also costs Dh100.75. You can also extend your stay on this visa. On entry, you may be asked to provide proof of profession. 

COVID-19 rules

There are additional rules in place given the COVID-19 pandemic with a few countries on Qatar's red list - citizens from these countries are required to be fully vaccinated (second dose completed 14 days before date of arrival) or recovered travellers. In the case of a recovered traveller, he or she is required to show proof of COVID-19 infection within 12 months of the date of arrival. 

They must also submit a negative pre-travel PCR test result on arrival and undergo a one-day hotel quarantine. A rapid antigen test will be conducted at the end of the quarantine. The cost of the test is QR 50 (Dh50.37). 

The countries on Qatar's red list as of now are Egypt, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines and Sri Lanka. Visitors from red-list countries who are not vaccinated or recovered as per the rules will not be granted entry to Qatar.

COVID-19 pre-travel registration and exemptions

Passengers arriving in Qatar must register via the pre-travel registration system for people entering Qatar on www.ehteraz.gov.qaonline to prove their vaccination or COVID-recovery status. They must upload all relevant official documents, where applicable, such as vaccination certificates, evidence of previous COVID-19 infection, serology antibody test results (for conditional vaccines), and PCR lab result at least 3 days before arrival.

Although uploading the PCR test result is not mandatory during the electronic pre-registration process, travelers who are required to have pre-travel PCR test, must present the original copy of the PCR test result to the airlines in order to allow them to board the plane, or at the country’s ports (land and sea).

They must also download and activate the Ehteraz app upon arrival at Qatar’s entry ports.

However, GCC residents/citizens and EU nationals/EU residents are exempt from pre-entry online registration if they use other apps to prove immune status as Qatar recognises certain apps used in other countries or regions. 

For GCC residents, you can use COVID health apps used in GCC countries as proof of vaccination/immune status. This includes the Al Hosn app used in the UAE. For visitors from the European Union, the European pass app is accepted while UK visitors can use the NHS COVID Pass. These travellers may also download the Ehteraz mobile application on arrival using an international SIM card to show vaccination status.

These visitors (GCC residents/citizens and EU nationals/EU residents) have the option to submit a pre-travel negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure to Qatar. In case this optional negative PCR test is not available, they can head directly to an authorised private clinics for Rapid Antigen Test within 24 hours of their arrival in Qatar.

Non-immune (not vaccinated or recovered) visitors in all of these categories are required to submit pre-travel PCR test negative results taken within 8 hours of their departure from country of origin. They are also required to undergo 1 to 5 days of quarantine (differs based on nationality/residence status) followed by a COVID-19 test. Visitors from red-list countries who are not vaccinated or recovered as per the rules will not be granted entry to Qatar. 

These are the applicable rules at the time of publishing this guide, but the rules are subject to change. Always check with authorities and airlines for the most recent updates to the travel rules before making any bookings/plans to travel. 

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How to Travel to Qatar for World Cup 2022

With the USMNT returning to World Cup action, fans will be wondering how to travel to Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.

For many, it is a foreign land, and that includes FIFA. This is the first time the tournament is in the Middle East, and just the second trip to Asia. Of course, the previous time was practically on the other side of the continent in 2002. That year, a collaboration of South Korea and Japan hosted the World Cup.

Due to a number of conflicts in the area, U.S. fans may question the safety of travel to Qatar. Data released by Global Finance Magazine listed Qatar as the third-safest country in the world . Iceland and the United Arab Emirates were the first and second countries on that list.

Where Is Qatar?

Traveling to Qatar is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many Americans. Part of that comes from the fact that Qatar is halfway around the world.

Qatar is by far the smallest country to host the World Cup. In fact, it is smaller than each U.S. state except for Delaware and Rhode Island. The small nation located on the west side of the Persian Gulf is connected by land to Saudi Arabia. Its population is just under three million, with the majority of that living in or around Doha, the capital.

Despite the small size, 32 countries will be represented during the 65 matches of the 2022 World Cup. The small nature of the country does have one added benefit. There are just eight stadiums in use, the fewest for a World Cup in history. Plus, each stadium is easily commutable for fans and teams during the tournament.

Qatar World Cup Stadiums

The eight stadiums in use are separated by at most 46 miles. Most of that comes from Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor. The other stadiums are in the greater Doha area.

Lusail Stadium, which hosts the most games of the eight venues, hosts the Final on December 18. Another interesting note is Stadium 974. This stadium is constructed out of recycled shipping containers. It will be fully deconstructed after the World Cup for reuse in another country.

These lavish stadiums each have interesting looks , despite the controversy surrounding their construction.

Qatar Travel Restrictions

When traveling on a U.S. tourist passport, the Government of Qatar does not require prior visa arrangements. You may obtain a free visa waiver upon arrival, stringent upon certain circumstances. To obtain a free visa waiver, you must possess:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months,  AND
• A confirmed onward or return ticket.

The release is valid for thirty days from the date of issuance and entitles the holder to spend up to thirty days in Qatar.

A U.S. citizen will need an approved Hay’ya Card (Fan ID) card application number for entrance to the stadiums and just to even enter the country. Fans must request it once they have paid for their tickets .

If you need to bring controlled/prescription medication into Qatar, the medicine should be in its original packaging and you should carry your original prescription.

Qatar COVID-19 Travel Requirements

Everyone will have to download the Ehteraz app to their phones. Using this app, fans must upload all the information related to their stay and vaccination status. Only vaccinated fans are allowed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Masks are mandatory in all public places.

Passengers traveling to Qatar should consult Qatar’s Travel and Return Policy website for the latest requirements or the Qatar Airways COVID-19 updates .

FIFA World Cup Travel Packages

Qatar Airways, the official airline of the country, is offering up a host of packages that include flights, accommodation, and match tickets .

Travel packages for the World Cup range from week one of the tournament right through to the final.

FIFA is also offering several packages for the tournament; however, flights, accommodation, and tickets will all need to be bought separately for the finals in Qatar.

Find Your Flight

Qatar Airways connects over 160 destinations worldwide to Doha (Qatar’s capital). In fact, direct flights out of the United States come from 12 cities. Those are Atlanta, Boston, Chicago (O’Hare), Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York (JFK), Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C. (Dulles).

Qatar Airways flight status generally lists out Hamad International Airport as the point of entry. It is just east of Doha, bordering the Persian Gulf. You can make a Qatar Airways reservation out of those 12 cities on more than 100 weekly flights. The Qatar Airways ticket price list out of the United States is anywhere from $1,900 to $2,800, depending on departing airport.

Of course, there are other airlines available. For direct flights from New York , American , Finnair , Turkish and Royal Jordanian all fly direct routes to Doha.

How to Get Around Qatar

The maximum distance between any of the eight stadiums is 45 miles. As an added bonus to the close nature of the stadiums, public transport is free on game days.

For the venues located in and around Doha, there is a strong metro system. The metro network has stops from the airport into the capital and connections to several of the stadiums. For those looking for a more privatized way to get around, Uber is an option. However, these prices could be higher especially with the quantity of people looking to get around the country.

An alternative for those who enjoy driving is a simple bus to get around the venues and city.

Where to Stay in Qatar

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy expects 1.5 million visitors during the World Cup.

In 2019, Qatar had just 35,000 hotel rooms. However, the Qatari government says it is adding more to accommodate the influx of tourists.

The busiest days for traveling should be November 27 and 28. This is when the group stage is wrapping up. Expect somewhere in the range of 275,000 fans in the country.

The Qatar 2022 website has an accommodations portal that is the best place to start your search for lodgings. The website features listings at hotels, apartments and villas or aboard two large cruise ships docked at Doha for the duration of the tournament. There is also an option to stay at “fan villages,” which the site describes as “a variety of casual camping and cabin-style accommodation for the avid fan.”

Other options to consider for hotels are Expedia and Priceline .

Getting Match Tickets

The Qatar 2022 World Cup features four types of tickets . Individual Match Tickets (IMTs) are tickets for one specific match. Then, Supporter Tickets (STs) are tickets for each group stage match of one specific nation. Another option is the Conditional Supporter Tickets (CSTs), which is basically an ST for the second round. Should the team that the purchaser supports be eliminated, they receive a refund for any games that the team does not qualify for. Finally, there is a Four-Stadium Ticket series. This option has 14 different packages that guarantee four games at four different stadiums during the group stage of the World Cup.

Prices range from $70 to $220 for individual tickets to group matches and escalate through the knockout phase.

Tickets for the championship final will cost from $600 to $1,600.

How to Travel to Qatar for World Cup 2022: More About Qatar

The Qatar official language is Arabic. However, English is also spoken widely throughout the small nation. Plus, English is common throughout FIFA competitions.

The Qatar currency is the Qatari Riyal. As of May 2022, $1 USD is equivalent to 3.64 Qatari Riyal.

There are five ‘locations’ hosting World Cup games. Al Wakrah, Al Khor, Al Rayyan, Lusail and Doha all have venues. Of course, these are all in close proximity to one another.

Al Wakrah, to the south of Doha, has Al Janoub Stadium. That is just a 51 minute drive from Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor.

Doha will be the main port of call for soccer fans heading to the tournament.

Culture & Dress Code

Qatar does have restrictions on filming and taking pictures, so make sure you have permission.

Neither the natives nor the visitors can pass any vulgar remarks, gestures or use any inappropriate language at public places.

Public displays of affection or intimacy between any couple can lead to arrest.

Religion is a sensitive issue in Qatar; treat any discussions on religion with care and caution.

It is against the law to drink alcohol or be drunk in public in Qatar. During the World Cup, alcohol will be available in designated areas , like licensed hotel restaurants and special “fan zones.” It is important to remember that public intoxication can carry a jail sentence.

Respect the local dress codes and cover your shoulders and knees. Women traveling to the country for the World Cup should wear long skirts and maxi dresses and avoid tank tops. Men should wear shorts that come just below the knee (or wear lightweight pants).

How to Travel to Qatar for World Cup 2022: Things to Do in Qatar

Outside of watching the world’s best compete, there are plenty of opportunities for activity in Qatar. Here are just a few examples:

• The National Museum, which tells the Qatar story from the beginning to its wealth from oil.
• Museum of Islamic Art
• Shopping malls in Doha
• Souq Waquif , one of the most famous marketplaces in Qatar, similar to the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
• Book a tour to drive up and down the sand dunes or try sandboarding

Because it is already dark before 7:00 p.m., Qataris start their day early.

Most office jobs end between 2pm and 3pm, and nightlife starts early.

The matches will be played at 13:00, 16:00, 19:00 and 22:00 local time. Therefore, the main tourist spots and fan fest will be filled not only with foreign fans, but also local fans.

Fridays between 11:00 and 13:00 is the time of the main prayer of the week, so almost everything closes then.

Qatar Weather

The 2022 World Cup will take place in Qatar’s winter season. Reason being the scorching desert heat is not exactly compatible with 90-minute soccer games. The milder temperatures are more favorable to the players and the tourists visiting the country.

Average daytime highs in November and December in Qatar range from mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. There is also minimal precipitation.

Stadiums will be air-conditioned, using solar-powered ventilation and cooling systems designed to keep spectators comfortable.

How to Travel to Qatar for World Cup 2022: Questions?

Feel free to let us know if you have any questions about how to travel to Qatar for World Cup 2022. Just let us know in the comments section below.

Guide to World Cup 2022

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Qatar travel guide: Where to stay, eat and drink if you’re visiting for the 2022 World Cup

After over a decade of controversy since qatar was awarded the tournament, the 2022 fiifa world cup is now just around the corner.

With more than 800,000 match tickets already snapped up and the final draw announced on 1 April pitting England against Iran on the first day of competition on 21 November, the race is on for fans to firm up Qatar travel plans. Here’s what to expect in the host nation.

Accommodation

It’s no secret that the availability and cost of accommodation in Qatar during the World Cup has been one of the biggest challengers for organisers. Approximately 80 per cent of the 130,000 rooms promised by Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy are bookable via the Qatar 2022 website ( qatar2022.qa ), but with most of the cheaper rooms now taken, and the average cost of a basic room in a shared apartment on Airbnb currently listed at £300 per night, ticket holders without accommodation will need to move fast to secure an affordable option.

All connected by metro, Qatar’s four main accommodation centres are, heading north from Hamad International Airport : central Doha, West Bay, The Pearl-Qatar and Lusail, which will host the grand final on 18 December. Each location has its benefits: central Doha is handy for cheap eats and visiting attractions including Souk Waqif , the National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art between matches, while West Bay is home to the lion’s share of Qatar’s bars.

Cradling a marina bulging with multi-million-pound yachts, the artificial island development known as The Pearl-Qatar has mostly apartment-style accommodation and a decent range of restaurants, while Lusail – technically an independent city to Doha, if still in-the-making – is home to the brand new Place Vendôme Qatar luxury mall.

Getting around

Prices for most things in Qatar are generally higher than what you’ll pay in the UK, but transport is a notable exception.

Ticket holders get free public transport on match days (download the Hayya to Qatar app to plan your journey). At other times, trips on Doha’s efficient, state-of-the-art metro system opened in 2019 cost just two riyals (40p) per journey (even from the airport), with a maximum daily cost of six riyals (£1.30). Railcards (which can be topped up online or at stations, just like an Oystercard) cost 10 riyals (£2.10). There’s also a free tram in central Doha’s snazzy Msheireb downtown district.

The maximum distance between World Cup stadiums is just 41 miles, but with only four of the eight stadiums within an easy stroll of metro stations (Ahmad Bin Ali, Education City, Khalifa and Lusail), fans headed to other venues may need to factor in extra travel time – particularly if you’ve got tickets to the England vs USA Group B match on 25 November at Al Bayt Stadium , 31 miles (nearly an hour’s drive) north of central Doha.

Qatar also has a good bus network. A Karwa Smartcard is required for all trips; the Unlimited Card (20 riyals/£4.20) gets you unlimited journeys within 24 hours of purchase.

Uber and Careem are the main ride-sharing apps and both are cheap as chips; an Uber from central Doha to Lusail Stadium costs just 40 riyals (£8.50). Metered turquoise-coloured Karwa Taxis (which take cash or card) are more expensive but still affordable by UK standards.

You can also drive in Qatar with a valid UK licence and an international drivers permit, but between the poor road discipline and high incidence of accidents, you may want to reconsider hiring a car. Accidentally run a red light, and you’ll be left 6000 riyals/£1,265 poorer.

Eating out (and in)

While pork is off the menu, Doha has a diverse culinary scene owing to its multicultural make-up – Qatari nationals comprise less than 12 per cent of the nation’s population.

Most of Qatar’s fine-dining restaurants (from Nobu to CUT by Wolfgang Puck) and all of its pubs are found in international hotels. Mid-range western restaurants and cafes can also be found in hotels as well as malls including City Centre Doha (where you’ll even find a Jamie’s Italian – remember those?). All have English menus.

A short stroll from Msheireb, buzzy Souk Waqif is packed with touristy, mostly Middle Eastern restaurants. Cheaper eats can be found a little further out from the downtown core, with top picks including Mama Rozie for Indonesian, Malaysian and Filipino dishes, and Bombay Chowpatty for authentic Indian favourites.

Self-caterers will find a huge Carrefour supermarket in West Bay as well as Monoprix supermarkets in Msheireb, The Pearl-Qatar and Lusail. Less central but cheaper are several outlets of Indian supermarket chain LuLu.

Where to drink

Licensed hotel bars and restaurants are currently the only places in Qatar where visitors over 21 can buy alcohol. At around £10 for a pint of Stella Artois, it’s not cheap to drink here, but there is a decent array of watering holes to choose from, many with discounted happy hours. Just a few popular bars with sports screens include the Belgian Café , SHOTS , Champions Sports Bar , Boston’s , the Irish Harp , Hudson Tavern and Mulberry Tavern . There is also a single state-controlled off-licence in Qatar, but it’s not open to tourists.

In good news for thirsty fans, there will be additional places to drink during the World Cup. Alcohol will be available at (but not inside) stadiums, but so far only to those purchasing hospitality packages.

Alcohol is also expected to be available at fan zones including the main Fifa Fan Fest site at Al Bidda Park , just north of central Doha, which local sources say will be transformed into a temporary entertainment precinct with capacity for 80,000 fans.

Local laws and customs

· All ticketholders must apply for a Hayya Card via the Qatar2022 website, which serves as an entry permit to Qatar as well as stadiums (along with your match ticket)

· The Qatar working week runs from Sunday to Thursday, with many businesses closing until at least noon on Fridays, though this may change during the World Cup

· Being drunk in public is a crime in Qatar that carries a prison sentence of up to six months and/or a fine up to 3,000 riyals (£634)

· As a general rule, clothing for men and women should cover the shoulders and knees when you step outside your hotel

· English is widely spoken in Qatar

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FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Documents List

Did you know Qatar Airways is the official airline of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and is offering one-stop-shop packages for fans to travel to Doha and experience matches live? The airline operates over 100 weekly flights from 12 US gateways, including New York JFK.

As you might be aware, the FIFA World Cup is a historic tournament that, in 2022, will be held in Doha— the most populous city of the peninsular Arab country of Qatar. With a population of a little over 2.3 million people, the modern city is still developing and competing among the most luxurious destinations, even though travelers can find tons of affordable options.

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With months away from the anticipated sports event (Mon, Nov 21, 2022 – Sun, Dec 18, 2022), fans across the globe will be traveling to Doha and enjoying live the first World Cup ever to be held in the Arab world.

We have made a list of the information you need to travel to make things easier.

Documents Information provided by the U.S Department of State

Requirements for entry.

• Passport valid for at least six months

For further information, see the Qatari government website.

Tourist visas

When traveling on a U.S. tourist passport, the Government of Qatar does not require prior visa arrangements, and travelers may obtain a free visa waiver upon arrival, provided the traveler has six months validity in their passport and a return or onward ticket. The release is valid for thirty days from the date of issuance and entitles the holder to spend up to thirty days in Qatar or multiple entries during the 30-day validity. The waiver may be extended for an additional thirty days. You can find more information on the Qatari government website.

Former Residency Permit Holders

Former resident permit holders seeking to return to Qatar should carry a “no objection letter” issued by their former sponsor. See the Qatari government or U.S. Embassy website for further information on residence permits.

In general, you will need:

• Police clearance certificate
• Authentication of education degrees
• Certified true copies of civil documents (marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc.)
• Occupational certifications from your home country

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Qatar does not recognize dual nationality

If you hold Qatari citizenship, Qatari law requires entry and exit on your Qatari passport. Qatari authorities may confiscate your U.S. passport if you have dual nationality. Contact the U.S. Embassy.

Military Personnel

Before traveling, military personnel should consult the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide since different entry/exit requirements may apply. For further information, call the Host Nation Coordination Cell of the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing at 011-974-5551-0815.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreign residents of Qatar. Medical exams are required for all long-term visitors and residents. For more details, please obtain information from the Embassy of Qatar before traveling.

Customs regulations are strict regarding alcohol, narcotics, pork products, weapons or weapons-related articles (handcuffs, laser pointers, etc.), and pornographic/sexually-related materials.

World Cup Accommodations Information

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 officially launched its accommodations portal for fans attending this year’s FIFA World Cup to book their stays and apply for their Hayya Card, which attendees will need to attend matches.

The Card features perks for fans like free public transport for ticket holders on match days. It will also act as an entry permit to Qatar for international visitors.

After purchasing their tickets, fans can book accommodations using the portal, which will offer various options, including apartments, villas, and cruise ship cabins, with prices starting at around $100 per room per night.

Fans can also book accommodations through traditional avenues like hotel and booking websites.

Airline Information

• Qatar Airways was voted the “Airline of the Year” by the international air transport rating organization, Skytrax, for an unprecedented sixth time (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021).
• Qatar Airways is the Official Airline Partner for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
• With nearly 1.5 million fans expected to travel for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, Qatar Airways offers passengers excellent connectivity with almost 150 destinations in its network, including 12 U.S. gateways: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta, Boston, New York, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia.
• Around 80 percent of the world’s population is within a six-hour flight from HIA, positioning the airport as the gateway to Qatar, the Gulf, and the World.

Qsuite Information

• Qsuite, a patented Qatar Airways product, features the industry’s first-ever double bed in Business Class and privacy panels that stow away – allowing passengers in adjoining seats to create their private room.
• Qsuite includes enhanced privacy, including sliding privacy doors and the option to use a ‘Do Not Disturb (DND)’ indicator.
• The Qsuite seat layout is a 1-2-1 configuration, providing passengers to the Middle East and beyond with the most spacious, fully private, and comfortable Business Class product in the sky.
• They can also dine on demand at any time throughout their flight.

World Cup Stadium Information

The maximum travel distance between stadiums is just 75km or about 45mi.

Tournament matches will be played across eight state-of-the-art stadiums: Khalifa International Stadium, Al Janoub Stadium, Education City Stadium, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Al Thumama Stadium, Stadium 974/Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, Al Bayt Stadium, and Lusail Stadium.

Stadium 974, aka Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, was constructed using recycled shipping containers and is the first fully dismountable stadium and setting a solid precedent for sustainable design.

All stadiums must meet sustainability benchmarks under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS), achieving design and build and construction certification.

World Cup Sustainability Information

As part of the efforts to host the first-ever carbon neutral World Cup tournament, each stadium has a legacy plan to ensure that the resources used to build each structure are used efficiently following the conclusion of the match.

Qatar has also invested in modern, state-of-the-art cooling technology, which is considered one of the significant legacies of the tournament, as Qatar has left the technology unpatented to be used by other countries with similar climates easily.

The Supreme Committee is committed to using renewable energy where possible, including solar photovoltaic lighting in some stadiums.

If you decide to travel to Qatar

• See the U.S. Embassy’s web page regarding COVID-19. Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Qatar.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergencies. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Safety Precautions

• Practice personal security measures at all times.
• Monitor local media broadcasts and consular messages.
• Vary travel routes and times when possible.
• Be aware of your surroundings and local events.

The crime rate in Qatar is generally low. Incidents of violence and petty theft are rare but do occur. There is a significant police presence throughout the country.

See the Department of State and the FBI web pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime

• Report crimes to the local police at 999.
• Contact the U.S. Embassy at + (974) 4496-6000.
• Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• You can find more information on local resources and assistance through the Protection and Social Rehabilitation Centre hotline: 6693-3999, 6693-3108, or 6693-3919.
• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the U.S. Embassy at + (974) 4496-6000.

Domestic Violence

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy at + (974) 4496-6000 for assistance. Victims may also seek medical care through the Hamad Hospital emergency room. Hamad Medical Customer Service in-country phone number: 16060. If you call from overseas, phone: +(974) 4439-5777.

Criminal Penalties

You are subject to local laws. You may be deported, arrested, or imprisoned if you violate local laws, even unknowingly.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. See the U.S Department of State website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Criminal penalties for certain offenses are harsher than those in the U.S.:

Incidents involving obscene language, gestures, or insulting comments often result in arrest, overnight imprisonment, and/or fines.

Alcohol-Related Offenses

Qatar maintains a zero-tolerance policy against drinking and driving. Penalties for public intoxication and other alcohol-related offenses are severe, including immediate arrest, heavy fines, imprisonment, and/or deportation.

Illegal Drug Usage

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and steep fines.

In case of arrest

Qatari authorities do not routinely notify the U.S. embassy of a U.S. citizen’s arrest. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the U.S. Embassy. If arrested—regardless of the charge—you may spend 1-2 nights in jail before a hearing takes place. Once an arrest is made, only the Qatari Public Prosecution and Courts have the authority to grant a release.

Faith-Based Travelers

Religion is a sensitive issue in Qatar; treat any discussions on religion with care and caution. The law provides a prison sentence of up to seven years for defaming, defiling, or committing blasphemy against Islam, Christianity, or Judaism. The law also restricts public worship for non-Islamic faiths.

Proselytizing is against the law

Attempts to covert a member of another religion or even “share your faith” can be considered “proselytizing.” Penalties for such actions include deportation or imprisonment.

While you may import religious material for personal use, do not bring religious materials into the country for proselytizing purposes; this is prohibited.

LGBTI Travelers

Same-sex sexual relations between men are against the law, even if relations are consensual. Penalties include lashings, lengthy prison sentences, and/or deportation.

Women Travelers

Men occasionally verbally and/or physically harass unaccompanied expatriate women. In deference to Islamic culture, avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, halter-tops, or shorts. Only wear athletic clothing in public when engaged in sports activities.

You must have a Qatari driving license to drive in Qatar. Do not drive on a U.S. driver’s license.

Public Transportation

Regulated and registered taxi services (Karwa, Fox Transportation, Uber, and Careem, to name a few) are widely available and generally safe to use. The Embassy recommends avoiding using unlicensed taxi operators or drivers who approach you and attempt to solicit business.

When using public taxis or limousine services, do not allow the driver to pick up additional passengers along the way. Females traveling alone should always sit in the back (never the front) seat to avoid cultural misunderstandings.

U.S. Embassy Doha

Al-Luqta District

22nd February Street

PO Box 2399

Doha, Qatar

• Telephone: +(974) 4496-6000
• Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(974) 4496-6000
• Fax: +(974) 4488-4298
• Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

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FIFA 2022 Qatar World Cup Packages: Detailed Guide

The World Cup 2022 is going to be held in Qatar. It’s a beautiful country and has some of the world’s most spectacular beaches and beautiful places to visit.

The only problem with Qatar is that it doesn’t have much of a tourist infrastructure, which means you have to travel there by air or by sea.

We have put together a comprehensive guide to Qatar World Cup Packages that will help you decide on the best way to reach your destination.

Whether you are a football fan or not, if you have ever had the dream of seeing the FIFA World Cup live, let’s talk about how to make this dream come true in 2022. 

No matter whether you want to know about- where to stay during Qatar World Cup ? Or how much tickets will cost you? This is a perfect guide for you.

When is Qatar World Cup 2022 Final?

Qatar has an extreme desert climate with temperatures reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius. 

To ensure that the FIFA World Cup 2022 will be a successful one, the tournament dates will be shifted from the summer to the winter months. This means that the games will be held between 21st November and 18th December, 2022.

The FIFA World Cup is one of the biggest sporting events in the world. It’s been going on since 1930 and it’s still going on today. It’s also one of the most expensive sporting events.

Why Book Qatar World Cup Packages?

Qatari hospitality is renowned throughout the world and its capital, Doha, is one of the safest cities in the Middle East. 

The city boasts some of the finest hotels in the region and offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy during their stay. Whether you are a sports fan or a culture vulture, this trip will not disappoint.

There are many reasons to visit Qatar. One of the most important ones is that it is the home of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which is being held there. If you have ever dreamed of watching the World Cup, now is the time to make that dream come true. 

Not only will you be able to enjoy all of the excitement of the World Cup, but you’ll also be able to see the beautiful country that is Qatar.

Our favorite world cup packages Qatar are those that have a low price and are more than enough to get you started. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get quality art supplies, and you don’t have to waste time and money on a program that won’t teach you anything.

Qatar World Cup Packages are available to make your journey to the FIFA World Cup even more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a cheap trip or an expensive one, Qatar World Cup Travel Packages will help you get the best deals for your travel needs.

How Many Teams Are in the Qatar World Cup?

The FIFA World Cup is the biggest football tournament in the world. It’s also the only tournament that counts the number of goals scored in a match as a tiebreaker, rather than the number of goals conceded.

The 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar will feature 32 teams before the field expands to 48 teams for the 2026 World Cup. The FIFA men’s World Cup has featured 32 teams for the last six editions, since France 1998.

If you are wondering what are the Qatar world cup groups? Here we go, Group A, Group B, Group C, Group D, Group E, Group F, Group G, and Group H are the groups that will be playing in the World Cup. They are all different teams, and they are all going to be playing in the World Cup.

Which Teams Have Qualified for the World Cup?

arterfinals.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup will be held in Qatar and will feature 32 teams. 

Here is the list of qualified world cup teams group wise:

How Much Will Qatar World Cup Tickets Be?

Tickets for the 2022 FIFA World Cup have been released and the FIFA World Cup will be played in Qatar from November 18, 2022 to February 2, 2023

. The new prices have been announced. The tickets for the final of the tournament are sold out, but you can still get tickets for the group stages.

The number of tickets has been reduced to make sure that fans who have been waiting for this moment can attend the matches. The cost of the tickets for group matches ranged from $105 to $210, while tickets for the final ranged in price from $455 to $1,100.

What Time is the Qatar World Cup Start?

FIFA has confirmed the first two rounds of matches will kick off at 1pm, 4pm, 7pm and 10pm local time. 

Kick-off times in the final round of group games and knockout-round matches will be at 6pm and 10pm local time. 

The final is scheduled to kick off at 6pm local time.

2022 Qatar World Cup Packages

A good travel package for your Qatar World Cup trip will provide you the following conveniences:

• Accommodations that are clean and comfortable are the top priority for any traveler. All modern amenities will be provided in the luxurious hotels included in your travel package.
• The desert safari is Qatar’s most famous excursion, so how can you leave Qatar without experiencing it? The mesmerizing golden sands of Qatar are the perfect setting for a desert safari.
• No matter if you are a FIFA fan or not, visiting Qatar during the FIFA World Cup will be an unforgettable experience. You will be able to watch at least one football World Cup 2022 match as part of your tour package.
• Visit Qatar’s city tour to experience its unique Arabic culture, delectable Arabic cuisine and picturesque locations. Qatar is situated in Eastern Arabia. FIFA fans can also participate in a number of tours, activities, and excursions through world cup 2022 packages from the UK. 
• Shuttle rides around Doha – Your travel agency will arrange all your shuttle rides once you land in Qatar. Your travel package will include all your transportation needs, from picking you up at the airport to getting you to your destination conveniently. During your short but exciting stay, you can simply relax and enjoy yourself.
• With one of the world’s cleanest metros, you can easily reach tourist spots, stadiums, and your hotel. In addition to metro passes, the package includes access to the luxurious Golf Club Car at the end or beginning of each train ride.

How Much Does the World Cup Qatar World Cup Package Cost?

Qatar World Cup 2022 package prices vary as per the services and facilities you choose. The price ranges between $9, 275 and $26, 850.

All-Inclusive Qatar World Cup Packages Services

All-inclusive travel packages for taking part in the Qatar World Cup 2022 have the following features-

• Professional assistance to help you choose an ideal tour package
• Accommodation at your favorite hotel
• Flight timings and specifications as per your wish
• Tour options and private travel
• 24*7 on-site assistance by the host team
• Round-trips and airport transfers.

Football World Cup 2022 Packages – Travel Agencies

• Guests can engage with amiable Qatari people and experience its rich culture with the hospitality packages which guarantee world-class hospitality. With accommodation in premium hotels starting at $337, the starting price for a hospitality package in USD is $950. Learn more about the hospitality packages on the official website of the travel agents. 
• Qatar Airways- If you want to make the most of your trip to the FIFA World Cup 2022, you can book a travel package with Qatar Airways.
• BucketList Events- An agency that offers customized packages to meet the needs of every traveler, BucketList Events makes booking hassle-free.
• EconomyBookings- From tickets to sightseeing, from hotels to public transportation, EconomyBookings Travel takes care of everything.
• Thomas Cook- Be it your first International trip or your only World Cup tour, Thomas Cook is there to help you at every step. Committed to giving travel enthusiasts the best travel experience in a foreign country, Thomas Cook is a reliable name in the travel industry.

Qatar World Cup 2022 Premium Packages

We’re now offering the most popular 2022 World Cup packages! From a 7 day trip to Doha to a 12 day trip to Al Wakrah, we have everything you need to plan your dream trip to Qatar.

FIFA Qatar World Cup Travel Packages by Qatar Airways

• Early Groups Package- Pounds 4,950 is the base price per person and it includes stay in a double room, international flight (round trip) tickets, 7-night hotel booking with complimentary breakfast, 3 personalized tickets for 3 matches.
• Later Groups Package- Starting from USD 4,700 for one traveler, it covers a trip from 27 th Nov to 3 rd Dec, 6-night hotel booking in a double room with complimentary breakfast, tickets for 3 matches and round trips (international) via flight.
• Qatar Finals Package- Starting from 4,050 pounds for one person, the trip is from 7 th Dec to 11 th Dec and includes 4-night hotel booking with free breakfast, international flight tickets from your city and back to your city, and the privilege to watch two Quarter Final matches.
• The Final Package- The cost per person is 5,600 pounds and it offers accommodation from 15 th Dec to 19 th Dec in a double room with free breakfast, flight tickets and tickets for a semi-final match and the final match.

How to Book a Qatar World Cup Travel Package?

If you’re planning a trip to Qatar, you can choose between several packages, depending on your interests and preferences.

A travel package for Qatar 2022 World Cup will help you plan your trip and it will also save you a lot of money. You can get the cheapest Qatar 2022 travel package by booking online or through travel agencies that offer a wide range of services.

We are here to help you with all your travel requirements and will always find the best solutions for you. Here are few steps that you must follow to book a hassle free package for your world cup tour in Qatar.

• Choose the travel agency and the package- Take your time to research well and select a package that will offer you the most memorable sporting and touring experience.
• Choose hotels and flights- As per your budget, you will have to select the fights and hotels from the different categories available. For instance, you can fly in business class or economy class, stay at a five-star or a three-star resort.
• Review the final package- Once you have added all your choices, don’t forget to check one last time in case you have missed anything. The main thing is that you should be satisfied with the package you have chosen.
• Finish the booking- The last step is to update your card details and complete the payment. Congratulations! You just learnt how to book a Qatar World Cup travel package online!

Qatar is one of the smallest countries in the world with a total area of just 944 square kilometers. It is located on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in the Gulf region.

It has a population of approximately 2.7 million people and it is the home of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The World Cup will be held in the winter months from November to early April and this is the perfect time to visit the beautiful country.

You can book a Qatar 2022 World Cup package with any of the tour companies or travel agents that provide this service. However, it’s important to know that you won’t get the best deal by booking a package directly from the company.

The reason is that many companies provide travel packages at high prices. You’ll be able to find a good deal if you compare quotes from different companies.

You can visit the stadiums, watch matches, meet the players, enjoy great food and beverages, and even get VIP access to the games!

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September 15, 2022

Qatar World Cup: Travel tips

International data plans

The countdown is on to the Qatar World Cup, and football fans around the world are excitedly preparing for what will possibly be their first trip to Qatar.

While the FIFA World Cup is typically held in May, June, or July, it’s been bumped later in the year since Qatar is so hot during the summer months. So ticket-holders are eagerly awaiting late November, when things will kick off (literally) on November 20, 2022 and run through December 18, 2022.

If you’ve never traveled to Qatar before, you probably have a lot of questions about your trip. Luckily, your well-travelled aloSIM team is here to help!

From what to wear (and what  not  to wear), how to move between World Cup stadiums, and how to stay safe by following some very important laws, we’ve rounded up what you need to know about your big trip to Qatar …

Phone prep: how to stay connected in qatar.

First up, when you travel to Qatar for the World Cup, you’re not going to want to leave your phone on Airplane Mode and you’re certainly not going to want to let your phone roam and pay roaming charges .

So the best way to stay connected will be installing a Qatar eSIM so you can pop onto local networks.

What’s an eSIM? An eSIM is the digital version of a traditional SIM card. Your device is likely already eSIM-compatible (but check the list first to make sure), and then it’s just a matter of choosing a Qatar eSIM data package — which start at $6.50 for a week’s worth of data .

You can have your Qatar eSIM installed on your device ahead of time, and then you just have to switch it on once you land in Qatar. Then you’ll have full access to your regular phone number for calling and texting, but you won’t pay roaming charges because your eSIM will connect you to a local network.

Understanding the Qatar World Cup dress code

Yes, you read that correctly: there’s a dress code in Qatar, even for enthusiastic sporting matches like the World Cup. This isn’t the place to yank off your T-shirt to reveal body paint in your team colors.

Qatar is an Islamic country with a conservative dress code, and no one is exempt — whether you live there permanently, or you’re just visiting Qatar.

Now, “conservative” doesn’t mean you need to dress like you’re going to a job interview. You can still wear your football jersey and a pair of jeans — but those jeans shouldn’t have huge holes in them, showing off too much skin.

What’s the dress code in Qatar?

• Keep your knees covered
• Don’t expose your shoulders
• No clothing with offensive words/imagery

No matter what outfit you choose in Qatar, make sure your knees and shoulders are covered, and don’t wear anything too revealing or potentially offensive.

There’s a common misconception that only women need to be mindful of dress codes in Qatar, but that’s not the case. No matter how you identify, it’s important to follow some simple rules to be respectful.

Do women need to cover their hair in Qatar?

No one is required to wear a scarf or veil, unless they choose to do so. It’s not expected.

What about wearing a bathing suit at my hotel?

Check with your hotel ahead of time, but many hotels allow any type of swimwear. (After all, it’s not easy to find swimsuits that will cover your shoulders and knees.)

Do I need to follow the dress code at the airport?

It’s best to keep your knees and shoulders covered during your flight into Qatar and while moving throughout the airport terminal, as you don’t want to risk upsetting someone with a risqué outfit. You can dress very comfortably — even in yoga pants and a T-shirt — while still remaining covered.

Do children need to follow the dress code?

No, the World Cup dress code (and Qatar dress code in general) only applies to adults.

What to pack for your Qatar trip

If you’re heading to the FIFA World Cup, remember that it’s being held during a relatively “chilly” time in Qatar (late November through mid December). The average temperature will probably be 24-29 degrees Celsius or 75-84 degrees Fahrenheit, which may be colder or hotter than your climate at home.

But as anyone visiting Qatar will tell you, the air-conditioning can be extreme there! So if you plan on wearing lightweight clothes because the temperature sounds pleasantly warm, remember that it might actually be much colder than you’re expecting.

PACKING SUGGESTIONS:

• Shirts that don’t reveal shoulders or cleavage
• Lightweight sweaters
• Light jackets
• Pants (nothing too tight)
• Jeans (no rips)
• Long skirts or dresses (past your knees)
• Pashmina scarves (for warmth and coverage)
• Comfortable, breathable footwear

What is a Hayya Card, and do you need one?

A Hayya card is a type of identification document, and it’s absolutely necessary if you plan on attending the Qatar World Cup this year.

Hayya cards are organized by the State of Qatar’s government, and you can create a Hayya account online to get started. There’s also a free app that can help with planning your trip to the World Cup. Not only will your Hayya Card serve as a Visa to get you into Qatar, it will also give you access to trams, buses, and Doha Metro.

Travel arrangements & Qatar accommodations

If you’re flying into Qatar, you’ll arrive at Hamad International Airport in Doha. You’ll need to declare if you’re entering Qatar with more than QR50,000 ($13,000 USD) in cash, or jewelry or valuables worth that much.

Once you’ve collected your luggage, Hamad International Airport has all of the usual options to take you to your accommodations — car rentals, limos, buses, taxis, and the metro.

If you’re booking your hotel room, keep in mind that it’s illegal in Qatar for unmarried men and women to share a hotel room . Some hotels may require proof of your marriage, and breaking the rules could result in jail time, so avoid splitting the cost of a hotel room with a boyfriend/girlfriend or pal.

Staying safe in Qatar

If you’ve never been to the Middle East and you’re nervous about whether or not it will be safe, you can relax. Qatar is a safe place with a very low crime rate, thanks to a solid police presence and high incomes amongst citizens.

But you’ll need to be cautious about a few unexpected risks in Qatar:

ALCOHOL: It’s illegal to drink in public (or be drunk in public) in Qatar, and breaking the rules could land you in jail for up to six months (and paying a hefty fine). If you’re going to drink alcohol in Qatar, be sure it’s only within permitted hotels, restaurants, or bars.

DRUGS: Qatar is very strict about drugs. You can’t use them, possess them, or transport them, and the tricky thing is that some standard prescription drugs are considered “controlled substances” in Qatar, so bring along prescriptions that specify your quantity and dosage.

“OFFENSIVE” BEHAVIOR: Skip any public displays of affection (especially in family-friendly places), and be careful not to use rude language/gestures or insult anyone. Even taking pictures and videos can be considered rude, so ask permission first if you want to be a shutterbug. Any of the above “offensive” behavior could get you arrested, fined, or even deported.

DRESS CODE: As we described above in our packing section, it’s important to wear loose, modest clothing that doesn’t expose your knees, shoulders, or cleavage. (This applies to all genders.)

LGBTQ+ LAWS: Forbes ranked Qatar as the second most dangerous place for the LGBTQ+ community to visit, with strict penalties that can include years in prison, flogging, and even the death penalty. While it’s been discussed that Qatar should temporarily suspend these enforcements during the 2022 World Cup, at the time of publishing this post, that hasn’t happened.

Navigating the Qatar World Cup stadiums

There are eight stadiums throughout Qatar where you can expect to see World Cup games. The largest and most expensive stadium is the Lusail Stadium , with a capacity of 80,000 people. It will host 10 matches from Nov. 22 through Dec. 18, including the exciting World Cup final scheduled for the last day.

Use your Hayya Card and match tickets to access transportation between World Cup stadiums . Remember to use the Hayya app to find bus locations and book your seats ahead of time.

Keeping in touch while you’re at the Qatar World Cup

Attending World Cup matches will be a thrill you’ll remember for the rest of your life, so make sure you enjoy your Qatar trip to the fullest by staying connected on a budget.

Grab a Qatar eSIM for as little as $6.50 U.S. for a week’s worth of Qatar data . If you need more, you can top up your eSIM anytime. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your phone the data it needs to stay online — even when there isn’t any Wi-Fi available — and you’ll always be able to call, text, pull up maps, use your Hayya app, or find a great local restaurant.

Have a wonderful time at the World Cup!

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FIFA World Cup 2022

Why qatar is a controversial host for the world cup.

Becky Sullivan

Qatar relied on migrant workers to build stadiums and other infrastructure for the World Cup. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about worker deaths and safety. Patricia De Melo Moreira/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Qatar relied on migrant workers to build stadiums and other infrastructure for the World Cup. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about worker deaths and safety.

The selection of Qatar to host this year's FIFA World Cup brought cheers to the streets of Doha in a celebration of the first edition of the tournament to be held in the Arab world.

But the choice, made in 2010, also sparked instant criticism – over the logistics of holding a sporting event in a country where summertime temperatures regularly top 100 degrees; over allegations of bribery and corruption among FIFA officials who voted for Qatar; and over concerns about human rights abuses that have persisted in the years since.

Now, with the World Cup days away, the Gulf country is expecting the arrival of more than a million fans. And billions more will tune in to watch the tournament's 64 games. Yet the controversies have not subsided.

FIFA's former leader says making Qatar a World Cup host was a mistake

Recently, even the former head of FIFA called the selection of Qatar a mistake .

"It was a bad choice. And I was responsible for that as president at the time," said Sepp Blatter, whose term as FIFA administrator ended in 2015 amid a bribery scandal .

A lack of infrastructure and deaths of migrant workers

Qatar is the smallest nation to ever host the World Cup, a complex international sporting event that draws huge numbers of visitors and requires the infrastructure to accommodate them.

At just 4,471 square miles, Qatar is smaller than the state of Connecticut by about 20%. Much of the country is a barren sandy plain, and most of its 2.8 million residents live in the area around the capital Doha.

When it won selection in 2010, Qatar lacked many of the stadiums, hotels and highways needed to stage the tournament. To build them, the country turned to its massive population of migrant workers, who make up 90% or more of its labor force. (Only about 300,000 of Qatar's residents are Qatari citizens. Far outnumbering them are migrant workers whose visas are tied to their employment, a system that is common in the Middle East.)

FIFA bans beer sales at Qatar's World Cup stadiums in a last-minute reversal

As world cup looms, qatar's migrant worker system faces scrutiny.

Working and living conditions for those migrant workers were frequently exploitative and dangerous . A 2021 investigation by the Guardian found that more than 6,500 migrant workers from five south Asian countries had died in Qatar since 2010 from all causes – workplace accidents, car crashes, suicides and deaths from other causes, including the heat.

"Some of them include workers who collapsed on the stadium construction site and died after they were taken off it. Others died in road traffic accidents on their way to work in a company bus. And many others died suddenly in an unexplained way in their labor camps," said Pete Pattison, one of the reporters on the investigation, in an interview last year with NPR .

FIFA and Qatar dispute that number. Qatar says that only three people have died as a direct result of work on World Cup construction sites, and acknowledge the deaths of 37 workers that were "non-work-related."

Qatar also frames the World Cup as an " incredible opportunity to enhance welfare standards ," and officials say that conditions for workers have improved since the selection: In 2014, the country introduced a set of Workers' Welfare Standards that created new protections (although advocates say the new regulations are not always enforced).

Middle East

Report reveals more than 6,500 migrant workers have died in qatar's world cup prep.

In May, a coalition of human rights groups called on FIFA and Qatar to create a remedy fund – a pool of money that can be used to compensate migrant workers, along with the families of those who died, for abuses endured while building stadiums and other infrastructure necessary for the World Cup.

The fund, they say, should total no less than $440 million – the same amount as the World Cup prize money.

"We believe that players don't want to play in stadiums that workers died to build. We believe that fans don't want to stay in hotels or use metros that workers died to build," said Minky Worden, the director of global initiatives at Human Rights Watch, one of the organizations calling for the fund.

The U.S. men's national team in a training session this week in Qatar. Ozan Kose/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

The U.S. men's national team in a training session this week in Qatar.

Other human rights abuses

The concerns over human rights abuses go beyond the treatment of migrant workers. "In a word, the human rights situation in Qatar is bad," Worden told NPR .

This week, Human Rights Watch urged journalists to look beyond soccer by publishing a 42-page report summarizing what it described as "the numerous human rights concerns surrounding Qatar's preparations for the 2022 World Cup."

Consider This from NPR

Qatar's human rights record in the spotlight ahead of 2022 world cup.

Qatar's penal code criminalizes sex outside of marriage, which has led to the prosecution of rape victims. And homosexuality is effectively criminalized : Sex between men is punishable by up to seven years in prison, and men who "instigate" or "entice" another man to commit "an act of sodomy or immorality" could face one to three years' imprisonment.

In a recent interview with a German broadcaster, a Qatari ambassador for the World Cup described homosexuality as "damage in the mind."

"The most important thing is, everybody will accept that they come here. But they will have to accept our rules," said ambassador Khalid Salman, a former Qatari national team player. The comments were widely condemned by western officials, including the U.S. State Department.

Advocates say that LGBTQ people in Qatar are subjected to conversion therapy, harassment by authorities and imprisonment.

"The fear is so, so real," said Dr. Nasser Mohamed , who was raised in an ultraconservative Qatari community and applied for asylum in the U.S. over fears of retribution over his sexuality.

The U.S. will field one of its youngest teams ever at this year's FIFA World Cup

In a statement to NPR, the Qatari embassy said that the "safety of all visitors is of the utmost importance" to the host country and that Qatar is a "relatively conservative society."

"Everybody will be welcome in Qatar for the World Cup," the statement said. "We simply ask all visitors to appreciate and respect our culture, just as they would if they were traveling elsewhere in the region and in other parts of the world."

Allegations of bribery and corruption

The selection of Qatar as World Cup host has long been dogged by allegations of bribery and corruption.

The selection was announced in 2010 after a series of votes by FIFA officials. Qatar won out over bids by the U.S., South Korea, Japan and Australia.

Over the years, various officials, both from FIFA and other organizations, have been accused of accepting or soliciting bribes to guide the World Cup to Qatar.

"There has been just so many allegations of corruption against the Qatari bid – of political machinations going on, in terms of government deals, gas deals between countries that would have a vote on who would host the World Cup finals," said James Montague, a journalist who has written about Qatar and the World Cup, speaking in an interview with NPR's Throughline .

Throughline

Qatar's world cup.

About a dozen of the FIFA officials involved in the selection have since received bans from the organization – including its former president Blatter – or been indicted over allegations of corruption. In 2019, French soccer great and former head of European soccer Michel Platini was arrested during an investigation into a $2 million payment connected to his efforts to bring the World Cup to Qatar. Blatter and Platini have both denied wrongdoing.

A 2014 FIFA inquiry exonerated Qatari officials of any impropriety, allowing the tournament to go ahead.

The November schedule has put a strain on many players

The World Cup is traditionally held in the summer. But Qatar's summertime heat and humidity made that untenable, and the event was instead scheduled for November. (The games will also be held in air-conditioned stadiums.)

The timing has caused major disruptions in professional soccer, especially in Europe, where most league schedules typically run from late summer through the following spring. Top professional leagues such as England's Premier League, Germany's Bundesliga and Spain's La Liga have all announced two-month breaks to accommodate the World Cup.

The 'Hand of God' soccer ball punched by Diego Maradona is up for auction

That tight scheduling has caused "unprecedented workload demands" on players, according to a new report by FIFPRO , the union that represents 65,000 players worldwide.

For a typical summertime World Cup, Premier League players have historically had an average of 31 days to prepare and 37 days to recover, the report found. This year, prep and recovery time has dropped to seven and eight days, the union says.

"Overlapping competitions, consecutive back-to-back matches, extreme weather conditions, a condensed preparation period and insufficient recovery time together pose an ominous danger to player health and performance," the report states.

Players participating in the cup will face "a really high risk" of injury, said FIFPRO consultant and exercise scientist Darren Burgess .

Media Release

Fédération Internationale de Football Association

FIFA Strasse 20, P.O Box 8044 Zurich, Switzerland, +41 (0) 43 222 7777

FIFA renews longstanding partnership with Qatar Airways, extending through to 2030

The renewed collaboration will include FIFA World Cup 26™, FIFA Women's World Cup 2027™, FIFA World Cup 2030™, as well as youth tournaments

Qatar Airways, a top-tier FIFA Partner since 2017, named FIFA’s Global Airline Partner one year after the start of the unforgettable FIFA World Cup 2022™

FIFA President Gianni Infantino was in Qatar to announce the significant partnership

One year on from the unforgettable FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, FIFA is delighted to announce the renewal of its longstanding partnership with Qatar Airways until 2030 as its Global Airline Partner.

FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, joined Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer for the signing ceremony. The extended partnership was announced at the award-winning Hamad International Airport, against the backdrop of the airline’s Boeing 787-8, as well as the Airbus A350-900.

The agreement will cover significant FIFA tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup 26, FIFA Women's World Cup 2027™, the FIFA World Cup 2030™, as well as all youth men's and women's tournaments, commencing with the ongoing FIFA U-17 World Cup™ in Indonesia.

Since May 2017, Qatar Airways has been an integral part of FIFA's global initiatives, and with this renewed partnership will continue to play a vital role in the development of football worldwide.

The announcement comes on the heels of the immense success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which captivated audiences around the globe with its incredible stadia, unmatched hospitality, and pure on-the-pitch drama – culminating in a Final for the ages.

As FIFA’s Global Airline Partner, Qatar Airways will be able to engage with fans on a deeper level, both at tournaments and through various digital platforms.

“Today I am very proud to announce the renewal of our partnership between Qatar Airways and FIFA. It is a great partnership that has brought a lot of success to FIFA, and of course as well to Qatar Airways,” said the FIFA President during the ceremony.

“My thanks to Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, the GCEO, and to the whole fantastic team of Qatar Airways. One year after the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, here we are again to celebrate.”

Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: "We are excited to extend our partnership with FIFA as the Global Airline Partner. As an airline, we are committed to connecting the world, and this partnership allows us to reach millions of football fans. Football has the power to unite people across cultures and continents, and we are proud to continue to be part of this incredible journey. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming tournaments and look forward to creating unforgettable experiences for fans around the world.”

As Qatar Airways takes the next step in its FIFA partnership, the airline is thrilled to announce that football fans will soon have access to exclusive travel packages including match tickets, flights, and accommodation for select FIFA tournaments through a dedicated Qatar Airways platform.

Almoez hits double as Qatar progress in World Cup qualifiers

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India left reeling by Afghanistan as World Cup hopes begin to fade again

Expanded 2026 World Cup finals have given hope to Igor Stimac’s side but the Lions of Khorasan had other ideas

P erhaps the one positive for India from their shock 2-1 home defeat by Afghanistan in 2026 World Cup qualification is that the team have risen far enough for shock defeats to be a thing. It is not much of a comfort, however, and once solid-looking dreams of reaching the final stages on the road to the World Cup for the first time are starting to hang by delicate threads of Assam silk.

On Thursday, fans in that state’s biggest city, Guwahati, were confident of a comfortable win against Afghanistan, a team ranked 158 in the world. The 0-0 draw between the two five days earlier in the south-west corner of Saudi Arabia, rather than in Kabul, was surely a blip. Qatar were streaking ahead in Group A of qualification, leaving India and Kuwait to fight for the second spot that also brings a place in the final 18 that will fight it out for Asia’s increased World Cup allocation of eight. India had four points from the first three games and could have moved four points clear of third with two games to go.

That seemed to be on the cards when the third-highest active men’s international goalscorer, Sunil Chhetri, netted No 94 (12 behind Lionel Messi and 34 behind Cristiano Ronaldo) in the first half. With 20 minutes left, however, Rahmat Akbari equalised and just before the end Sharif Mukhammad scored an already famous winner. It was a stunning result.

India are still second but instead of being almost home and dry they are level on points with Afghanistan and one ahead of Kuwait and still have Qatar still to play. Anything could happen in the remaining games in June.

Fans gathered outside the stadium to boo as the team headed to the bus and chants of “Stimac out” could be heard. Igor Stimac’s job is on the line. The former Derby and West Ham centre-back was already on the defensive after last year’s rumours – angrily denied – that he consulted astrologers when selecting the team and, more importantly, a poor Asian Cup. India arrived at the tournament in January with high hopes but left Qatar without scoring a goal. The Blue Tigers broke into the top 100 of Fifa’s rankings last summer but they have since slipped to 117.

The team are reliant on the soon-to-be-40 Chhetri in attack and fans feel their Croatian coach does not take enough responsibility for setbacks. After the loss, Stimac said he did just that, but then talked of a lack of intensity from his players, too many mistakes and a need to improve fitness levels. It is a measure of the progress made that missing out on the last 18 of qualification would be regarded as a major failure but Stimac needs to prove wrong an increasing number of fans who feel he has taken the team as far as he can in the past five years.

Afghanistan’s coach, Ashley Westwood, has inserted himself into any conversation if Stimac leaves. The former Sheffield Wednesday defender won two Indian league titles in 2014 and 2016 with Bengaluru, a new team. After leaving for Malaysia to take over underperforming Penang, he probably tried to change too much too quickly and it did not work out. Now, though, he has reminded people what he can do after five months with Afghanistan.

It is a challenging job. The Aghanistan national team are not able to play games at home. Much of the squad is made up of players who left the country at a young age to settle in Europe. “We’ve worked really hard over the last 14 days, we’ve had some incredible travel,” said a delighted Westwood, who claimed the Lions of Khorasan should also have won the first meeting between the two. “Players, staff from 16, 17 different countries coming together, it has been difficult. We’ve had 350 flights to organise; it’s a logistical nightmare.”

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Stimac would welcome that problem. He and the federation have asked the India government to allow players of Indian origin who were born and raised in Europe and elsewhere to Indian parents to be granted dual nationality so they can be called up. It has yet to happen.

China’s new coach, Branko Ivankovic, another Croatian, called up the naturalised Brazilians Elkeson and Fernandinho for his first two games, both against Singapore. The first was a disaster as Team Dragon, who also failed to score at the Asian Cup, let slip a two-goal lead to draw 2-2. For an hour of the return in Tianjin, it was looking dicey at 1-1 before three late goals provided a vital China win. It prevented more negative headlines on the day Chen Xuyuan, former head of the China Football Association, had been jailed for life on corruption charges. He joins in prison a number of other high-ranking officials as well as the former national team coach, and Everton player, Li Tie.

China got out of jail late against Singapore but failure to beat Thailand on 6 June may result in the team needing to get something against their international kryptonite, South Korea, in Seoul. India also can’t afford any more slip-ups.

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Afif delighted with Qatar’s Asian Cup qualification; Westwood targets bigger things for Afghanistan

Tribune News Network

Captain Akram Afif was proud to see Qatar pass a tough Kuwait test to secure a 2-1 win that clinched their spot in the third round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers on Tuesday. All three goals were scored in a space of four minutes late in the game with Almoez Ali’s double doing the trick for the reigning AFC Asian Cup champions, confirming them as Group A winners with two matches to spare.

“Kuwait played a good match, especially when they were at home in front of their fans. That gave them big motivation to win and ignite their chances to qualify,” said Afif.

“It is normal that when you play away, the match will be difficult, as we faced a team who was looking for a win. For us, we got the important thing which is the win and the ticket to qualify for the next round of World Cup qualifiers, and we wish good luck to Kuwait for the last two matches,” he added.

Kuwait head coach Rui Bento was satisfied with the performance of their players, with the opportunity to advance still in their own hands despite the result leaving them a point adrift of both India and Afghanistan. “We did a good job against Asia’s champions,” said Bento.

“Yes, we could have performed better. It is true that we didn’t win, but I am proud of the players. Our chances to qualify are still open, our plan from the beginning was to build a new national team and we are moving forward with this plan. Today luck was not on our side to score, but I’m sure in the future, luck will be on our side.”

Meanwhile, Ashley Westwood was encouraged by the comeback of his Afghanistan side in their 2-1 win against India, with Sharif Mukhammad’s 88th penalty deciding the match.

Sunil Chhetri had put India ahead via the penalty spot in the 38th minute but Afghanistan fought back to equalise through Rahmat Akbari in the 70th minute before Sharif sealed their first win in the group.

“I was not under pressure being 1-0 down at half-time because I knew we would score,” said Westwood.

“I never felt pressured or under trouble because I always believed in the boys and am glad we got the result. We have six points to play for, we need a few results to go for us. We are not thinking that far ahead, we’ll enjoy tonight and the next week or so and then start thinking about that.”

Embattled India’s coach Igor Stimac said his side can still progress to the third round of the World Cup Qualifiers, putting up a brave front despite an embarrassing defeat to lower-ranked Afghanistan.

“Of course, I think we can qualify (for third round of World Cup Qualifiers) and I told you before as well we are going to be a different team after a long camp. You can see that half of our players are not able to bring that intensity and I cannot change that in five days, I am sorry,” Stimac said.

“I repeat myself again and again and again. I hope you remember all these players were the same players in June-July and Afghanistan is not a different team than Kuwait and Lebanon teams that we had beaten and dominated.”

Stimac apologised for the defeat following a below-par performance from his wards. When asked if he would resign, he said that he is here to “fulfil a mission” and he would be in charge of the team till June.

Dubai World Cup is 2024’s most anticipated sporting event, shows survey

The much-awaited race marks the end-of-season finale of the Dubai World Cup Carnival

The Dubai World Cup, a key fixture on the UAE’s sporting calendar, has emerged as the most anticipated sporting event of the year, according to a recent poll commissioned by marketing and PR agency duke+mir.

In a survey conducted by research specialist YouGov, spanning over 1,000 respondents, findings reveal that 31 per cent of UAE residents are gearing up to tune in to the 28th edition of the horse racing event set to unfold at the iconic Meydan Racecourse on Saturday, March 30.

The much-awaited race marks the end-of-season finale of the Dubai World Cup Carnival.

Surpassing renowned spectacles such as the UEFA Champions League Final, the T20 World Cup, and the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix, the Dubai World Cup clinches the title of the nation’s favourite sporting extravaganza for 2024.

Dubai World Cup: A special event for the emirate

Launched in 1996 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, at Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, the race moved venues to the Meydan Racecourse in 2006.

Considered one of the world’s richest races: the event features a total prize purse of $30.5m for nine races. The main Dubai World Cup race features a prize worth $12m.

In 2023, Japan’s Yuga Kawada rode Ushba Tesoro to victory in the main race.

Jonathan Ivan-Duke, co-founder of duke+mir, said: “The Dubai World Cup holds a special place in the hearts of people across the UAE and beyond. It’s remarkable to witness how this event unites individuals from diverse backgrounds, echoing the sentiment of a national celebration.”

Offering insight into the event’s significance, racing expert Michael Mulvihill, co-founder of @MiddleEastRacing, emphasised the allure of witnessing top-tier horses and jockeys compete under the dazzling lights of Meydan Racecourse.

He remarked, “The Dubai World Cup’s dominance in the poll underscores the magnetic appeal of witnessing world-class talent converge for an unforgettable evening of racing action.”

Looking to catch the action live? click here for more details.

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Qatar Airways is designing new premium cabins, including an evolved Q-Suite '2.0,' business, and first class on the upcoming Boeing 777X

• Qatar Airways is evolving its high-dollar business and first class cabins.
• A "QSuite 2.0" will be unveiled in July, and a new first class will be deployed on the Boeing 777X.
• The plan to add first class reverses a decision previously made by Qatar's former CEO.

Qatar Airways' new top executive has revealed more information about the future of the airline's most premium cabins as it continues to try to one-up the competition.

In an interview with CNBC on Friday, CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer said a new business class design, dubbed the "QSuite 2.0," will be unveiled this summer at the Farnborough International Airshow in England.

The new product is a follow-up to Qatar's already award-winning QSuite model , which was first launched in 2017 and described by Al Meer as the "benchmark" for airline business class.

"We've been waiting to see if any of our competitors will be able to raise this benchmark even higher," he told CNBC, claiming nobody has yet to do. "So, we've decided to take this by ourselves."

He explained the company has made "multiple modifications and upgrades to the existing QSuite," which it plans to install on its future fleet.

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Qatar's current QSuite, which is only installed on certain A350 and Boeing 777 planes, includes luxuries like a privacy door and the option to convert some seats into double beds or four-person sitting areas.

Qatar reverses decision not to install first class on its future Boeing 777X planes

Also on deck is a new first-class cabin, which Al Meer told CNBC would be featured on Qatar's upcoming Boeing 777X jets .

The plane is still going through the certification process (and is already behind schedule) , but Al Meer said Qatar expects to receive its first 777X by the end of 2025.

The airline has ordered 74 of the widebody twin-engine aircraft.

"I know we have been always pushing away the concept of having a first-class cabin on board our aircraft," Al Meer told CNBC, referring to former CEO Akbar al Baker's prior decision to ditch frst class to focus on the QSuite.

"I've decided the last few months that we have to introduce [a] first class cabin," Al Meer continued. "Especially when we have to exit the [Airbus] A380."

The A380 is the only aircraft in the company's fleet that features a first class, but the new 777X offering will take its place once Qatar eventually retires the mammoth quad-jet.

The economics of operating a long-haul first class are tricky, though. For example, American Airlines has opted to eliminate international first class in favor of a new "flagship" business class because people "aren't buying [first]."

However, the first-class cabin — which Al Meer described to CNBC as a "very high demand" product — is still a popular option on many major Middle Eastern and Asian carriers like Emirates , Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways.

Al Meer expressed confidence in Qatar's ability to create a competitive product and lure in high-dollar customers, telling CNBC that "nobody can develop first-class cabin better than us."

He noted, however, that the cabin would not be offered on all aircraft and would be strategically deployed only on specific routes.

"We will know how many aircraft we need with the first class cabin to make sure that we utilize it to the best that we can," Al Meer said, assuring customers it will offer the "same value" in terms of cost as the A380 first class.

Moreover, he explained Qatar is taking advantage of its combined knowledge of commercial flying and private flying to develop the new first-class seat — the latter expertise is thanks to its private jet arm known as Qatar Executive.

"We are 70-80% ready," he told CNBC. "We are only finalizing colors and small touches, but hopefully, we will be able to announce very soon."

Watch: The true cost of the Qatar 2022 World Cup

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