A GUIDE TO QATAR IF YOU’RE ATTENDING THE FIFA WORLD CUP 2022

 

The highly anticipated FIFA World Cup will kick off from 21 November 2022 in Qatar, with Australia’s national soccer team; the Socceroos, officially securing their spot in the tournament.

The Middle Eastern nation is packed with rich Arabian culture and heritage, authentic food, futuristic art and architecture, as well as land and water activities. In fact, Qatar, the smallest country yet to host, offers much more than soccer fans may expect!

Qatar Tourism have created a guide for football fans and potential travellers keen to immerse themselves in Qatar beyond the game. Whether it’s food, architecture, activities, sport, or relaxation, this list will ensure you make the most of the trip.

Expert guided tours 

Discover Qatar, a popular local tour operator, offers everything from neighbourhood tours and water sports excursions to public art and traditional landmarks. One of the top tours for discovering the capital’s unique neighbourhoods is Discover Doha, a four-hour guided tour discovering some of the city’s most popular destinations including Al Janoub Stadium, Souq Waqif and Katara Cultural Village. 

Thrill-seeking adventures 

Capture the spirit of adventure with a desert dunes experience. Khor Al Adaid, or the ‘Inland sea’ as it is known in English, is considered a desert marvel. The beach at Khor Al Adaid features clear waters and fine sand, surrounded by miles of desert. Accessible only by 4X4, even getting to this haven is exciting experience.   

Exceptional dining experiences 

Foodies are catered to at any budget in Qatar. The diversity of the country’s population is showcased through its culinary offering, from authentic street food to high-end modern dining. One of the oldest BBQ establishments, Turkey Central is abuzz with people coming for the famous kebabs and kofte on tomato bread. Favoured by locals, Parisa Souq Waqif offers a combination of delicious, Middle Eastern dishes coupled with some of the most striking interiors, including hand-painted artworks of myths and legends, intricate mosaics and thousands of tiny mirrors. 

Wellness and rejuvenation 

Qatar is an idyllic destination for a relaxing getaway, offering sun, sea and sand as well as world-class wellness resorts and facilities. Zulal Wellness Resort is a fully immersive retreat located in the north of Qatar, with programmes available from 3 to 14 nights. The resort has an emphasis on stress resistance and enhancing sleep quality. Solo travellers can also visit Banana Island Resort set on a private island surrounded by turquoise lagoons.  

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

• Official language: Arabic (however English is largely spoken)

• Currency: Qatari Riyal

• Airport: Hamad International Airport (announced as the ‘World’s Best Airport' in the 2021 Skytrax World Airport Awards)

• Airline: Qatar Airways flies directly to Doha from Australia and takes approx. 15 hours

• Alcohol: While alcohol is not part of local culture in Qatar, it is available for people who wish to enjoy it and can be found at many of the hotels and private clubs across the country. Alcohol will also be readily available in designated locations during the FIFA World Cup 2022TM , such as official fan zones and select stadium areas. During the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019TM , alcohol was sold at the official tournament fan zone, with a beer costing QAR 25 ($9.87 AUD). The fan zone attracted over 40,000 fans. Like in many countries, public drunkenness and drinking alcohol in public places is not permitted

• Clothing: While locals wear thobes and abayas, expats and tourists are free to embrace their clothing of comfort, as long as it is modest and respectful to the culture. Swimwear is allowed at hotel beaches and pools. Visitors should note that they are expected to wear conservative attire in some places, e.g. government buildings, national museums and Souq Waqif – Qatar’s traditional, bustling marketplace.

• Safety: Qatar was recently ranked the safest country in the world in 2022 by the Numbeo Global Index

• Average temperature: In Qatar during November and December (when the tournament will be played) is 18-24°C – perfect for fans and players. Plenty of fans will be able to enjoy some winter sun by relaxing on one of the many beaches across the country in between matches

Accommodation:

• Hotels ranging from 2* to 5* to suit every budget and requirement

• Serviced apartments & villas to experience the atmosphere as a local

Getting around:

• The integrated public transport network – comprising the Doha Metro, tram networks and bus system – will make it easy for everyone to get to their accommodation, and on to stadiums, fan sites and tourist attractions. There are also a host of taxi and rideshare apps available in Qatar.

• The compact nature of Qatar’s World Cup means fans will never be far from the action. They will arrive at one airport, have the chance to stay in just one accommodation and always be within easy reach of a stadium, fan zone or tourist attraction. The longest distance between stadiums is just 75km. Travel times will be short – no matter your destination – meaning fans can attend more than one live match in a day.

• The Doha Metro will make it easy for everyone to get around in 2022. It’s quick, cheap and convenient. A day ticket costs QAR 6 ($2.37 AUD). Five of the eight tournament stadiums are either directly connected, or in close proximity of a metro station.

For the latest travel tips to plan your trip, please visit the Qatar Tourism website.