When we turn our attention to upcoming holidaythere is also another big event coming up – FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.
For two weeks, the world’s most-watched sporting event will dominate TV screens.
The football tournament, which takes place every four years, has been particularly closely monitored since Qatar won the right to host in 2010 due to human rights and labor issues not only surrounding the event but also ongoing. and which we mentioned in a previous article for visitors who are considering a trip to the games.
Various reports, even from The New York Times and Amnesty Internationalindicates that 2 million migrant workers have suffered “significant levels of danger” [working] conditions “under the hands of Qatari officials prepared, including the construction of seven new stadiums, an airport and many many hotels. Human Rights Watch claim As a result, at least “thousands of migrant workers” from neighboring countries, such as Nepal, have died. In June, the country’s organizers responded by saying they had improved working conditions, as reported by Reuters.
Human Rights Watch, among other groups, has also criticized terrorizing LGBTQ+ individuals in Qatar and restricting women’s rights due to the country’s male guardianship system.
However, the 2022 World Cup is expected to draw more than a million spectators to watch its 64 matches, with more than 3 billion followers from around the world, according to FIFAThe international governing body of the football association that sponsors the World Cup.
For those who are planning to attend in person, here are the entry requirements and other things you need to know about the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
When does the World Cup take place?
Although the World Cup usually takes place in the summer, this year’s tournament will take place November 20 – December 20. 18 to free spectators and athletes from the hot summer heat of Qatar.
The opening match between Qatar and Ecuador will take place on November 20 at 7pm GMT (2pm EST), followed by the opening ceremony the following day. Another 63 matches played by 32 qualifying teams will take place over the next 28 days.
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More specifically, the group stage matches will take place in a series of 16 matches from November 21 to December 12. 2. The quarter-finals will be played from December 3-6, followed by the semi-finals from December 9-10, the third place matches from December 13-14 and the finals will be held at 6pm GMT (1pm EST) on December 18.
Related: Accor opens a pair of luxury hotels in Qatar during the 2022 World Cup
Where will the World Cup matches take place?
With up to four matches daily throughout the group stage, teams will play games across eight stadiums near the country’s capital, Doha, including the following locations:
- Al Bayt Stadium: Located in Al Khor, 22 miles north of downtown Doha.
- Al Janoub Stadium: Located in Al Wakrah, 19 miles south of downtown Doha.
- Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium: Located 12 miles northwest of Doha city center.
- Al Thumama Stadium: Located in Al Thumama, 7 miles south of downtown Doha.
- Education City Stadium: Located 4 miles west of downtown Doha.
- Khalifa International Stadium: Located 6 miles west of downtown Doha.
- Lusail Stadium: Located in the city of Lusail, 10 miles north of downtown Doha.
- Stadium 974: Located in Doha.
The furthest distance between stadiums is 34 miles, per Match Hospitality USA.
Qatar Entry Requirements
Hayya Thẻ Card
As of November 1, Qatar has eliminated most COVID-19-related entry requirements, but all visitors must apply for Hayya Card online before entering Qatar. This applies to all visitors, regardless of whether you are attending the World Cup or not, but know that it is mandatory to attend the matches.
Each match ticket holder must present a Hayya Card to attend the matches.
Once you are approved for the Hayya Card, you will receive a PDF copy of your entry permit via email. You can present this card or your Hayya Card through the Hayya to Qatar 2022 app to participate.
Other foreign nationals (with some exceptions) not participating in the World Cup will be barred from entering Qatar from November 1 to December 1. 23, According to the Ministry of Interior of Qatar. this is a Policy “1 + 3” that allows Hayya Card holders to receive vouchers for up to three friends or family members entering Qatar, even if they don’t have tickets to the match.
The Hayya Card also provides users with free access to public transport during the Cup, According to the official website of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Public transport, including Doha Metro, will operate daily until 3 a.m. on match days, although you can expect it to be very busy during the tournament. Alternative transport options include trams, buses, ride-hailing services, and taxis.
Book hotel in advance
All accommodation must be booked before arriving in Qatar via country World Cup Accommodation Authority website.
For those planning to stay in Qatar for more than 24 hours, you must book a hotel before applying for the Hayya Card, as you will need to enter your accommodation information there. If you are staying elsewhere, such as with friends or family, you must register the accommodation as you would with any other place through the online Hayya portal.
If you are in Qatar for less than 24 hours, you do not need to book accommodation but must register your trip details on the Hayya Card.
Other things to know
Alcohol, drugs, dress code, etc.
Qatar is a relatively conservative country with somewhat restrictive laws around alcohol and clothing. Everyone, regardless of gender, is required to dress modestly, that is, cover their shoulders and knees in public, including on public beaches.
Drugs of any kind are prohibited in Qatar and are punishable by imprisonment, fines and deportation according to the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Although the legal drinking age is 21, it is illegal to drink or get drunk in public. Alcohol is only available at licensed establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and bars. Alcohol will be available for purchase throughout the tournament at designated fan areas, primarily on the Corniche, a riverside promenade along the Bay of Doha, according to the Telegraph. Beer will be available there from 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., as well as inside the stadium perimeter starting from three hours before the game starts until an hour after the end of the game (full whistle). match), although it will not be available while the match is in progress.
Even so, the government has warned World Cup attendees to exercise caution when drinking as violations can carry a prison sentence of up to six months.
Homosexuality is still prohibited in Qatar by law, but Qatari officials have publicly confirmed that there will be no restrictions on booking or sharing accommodation, including unmarried friends or same-sex couples.
Key point
Whether you are traveling to Qatar to watch the World Cup live or will be cheering from afar, there are unique issues and requirements to be aware of due to Qatar’s status as the host country.
In-person attendees must apply for a Hayya Card prior to arrival, in addition to making a reservation. While alcohol will be allowed under specific guidelines, we recommend that you review the guidelines for travelers, including those published by Visit Qatar, United States Department of State and US Embassy in Qatarand LGBTQ+ attendees must be extra vigilant about the country’s restrictive policies.
Read more: World Cup in Qatar beset by controversy and human rights issues – here’s what to know
