World football's greatest competition on earth, the FIFA World Cup in 2022 is just around the corner, and the excitement couldn't be any higher. Qatar, the host nation, is spending whopping money on preparations for the upcoming competition and the venues are a pivotal part of it. With eight world-class stadiums in Qatar lined up to host the world cup, this promises to be a month-long footballing carnival in the Middle East.
Let's dive deep into and understand more about the top stadiums in Qatar that are about to host world football's greatest competition in Qatar.
Top 8 Qatar World Cup Stadiums To Watch Out For
As Qatar edges towards making history, world football fans are gearing up for a competition like no other. Eight world-class stadiums with a massive seating capacity have been lined up to host the world cup. Here's more on the same.
1. Lusail Stadium
A world-class stadium in Qatar that has a massive role to play as far as the world cup is concerned, the Lusail Stadium, as the name suggests, is nestled in the modern hamlet of Qatar and has the highest seating capacity as set for the world cup.
This Qatar FIFA Stadium would not only host some crucial encounters during the competition but would also be the venue for the final of the world cup which is set to take place on the 18th of December 2022. Featuring about 86,250 seating capacity, the arena is surrounded by water all around and looks absolutely surreal.
Besides, once the world cup is over, the stadium would be used for a series of sporting and cultural events that take place in the country.
The Design Of Lusail Stadium
As far as the design structure of the Lusail Stadium is concerned, the arena represents bowls, vessels, and art pieces for its design. Interestingly, these bowls, vessels, and art pieces hold a divine place in the history of Qatar. These are the things that have been used for centuries in the Middle East and are still heavily used today in the Arabian world. What really adds to the beauty of Lusail Stadium is the advanced lighting system which presents a fascinating sight at night.
Stadium Post The World Cup
Once the world cup gets over, the Lusail Qatar football stadium would form a community hub where various sporting, health, cafés, schools, and shopping facilities would come in. Even the majority of the seats from the arena would be donated to other sporting projects from around the world.
Location - Lusail, Qatar
Seating Capacity - 80,000+
2. Al Bayt Stadium
One of the finest Qatar football stadiums to be built in the country, the Al Bayt Stadium is nestled in the northern city of Al Khor which is a historical hamlet home to a rich history. The Al Khor stadium would have a seating capacity of 60,000 once the FIFA World Cup 2022 kicks off in Qatar and will be one of the newest stadiums in the country.
Interestingly, this is a stadium in Qatar that reflects the country's culture in a great way and honors both the past and present. As for sustainability, the arena has been developed with an eye on the future. The sustainability goals have been duly kept in mind which is well reflective in the facilities offered by the stadium.
The Design Of Al Bayt Stadium
The design of Al Bayt Stadium is inspired by the Bayt Al Sha'ar, a tent structure in which the people of Qatar have used for living in the desert for millennia. The exterior of the stadium has the same design as the tent while there lies an ultra-modern football stadium beneath it. Al Bayt is a perfect example of harmony between tradition and modernity. With black stripes that remind of the tribes to sadu patterns that remind of the heritage.
Stadium Post The World Cup
The Al Bayt Qatar FIFA Stadium has been built with a modular approach which allows the legacy of the stadium to grow. Once the world cup gets over, the seats of the stadium would be removed and given to other football development projects around the world. This would, in turn, grow the legacy of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar and would play a big hand in the growth of sports infrastructure in other nations.
Location - Al Khor, Qatar
Seating Capacity - 60,000+
3. Al Rayyan Stadium
Another venue set to play a big hand in making the world cup successful, the Al Rayyan Stadium is set on the site of the old Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan and will have a seating capacity of 40,000 once the FIFA World Cup kicks off in the country. One of the major tourist attractions in Qatar as far as Al Rayyan is concerned, the stadium has six practice pitches, an athlete track outside the main roof, and a number of other facilities. Interestingly, the local firms in Qatar have played a massive role in the construction of stadiums in the country. However, when it comes to the Al Rayyan Stadium, the majority of the project has been internationally endeavored.
Design Of Al Rayyan Stadium
The Rayyan Stadium has one of the most unique design features in the country. Every aspect of the stadium's design portrays the story of Qatar. While there are stunning patterns that remind of the Islamic architecture and handicrafts, the unique façade of the stadium is what really catches the eye as it reflects different aspects of life in Qatar like the importance of family, local and international trade.
Stadium Post The World Cup
Once the FIFA World Cup gets over, the Al Rayyan Stadium would play a big hand in the community. The Al Rayyan Sports Club would find a new home with a seating capacity of 20,000 while facilities like six football training pitches, cycling track, gym equipment, cricket pitch, and athletes track would all come here. Hence, once the world cup gets over, the stadium would have a lasting impact on the lives of people living in Al Rayyan.
Location - Al Rayyan, Qatar
Seating Capacity - 40,000+
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4. Khalifa International Stadium
It's fair to say the Khalifa International Stadium is one of the most loved stadiums in Qatar. Reopened in May 2017, the stadium has a rich history of hosting some top encounters. In fact, the Khalifa Qatar FIFA Stadium first hosted the final of the Emir Cup right after its reopening along with other significant competitions like the Arabian Gulf Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and even the IAAF World Athletics Championships.
Today, one of the top things to do in Doha is to take a tour of the whole stadium. Travelers come here to see the arena that has played a significant role in the development of sporting culture in Qatar. But hang on, there's one significant factor that makes the Khalifa Stadium one of the most loved stadiums in Qatar, and that is its location. The arena has unique geography and is connected with many advanced transportation systems which makes it easily commutable. Hence, it is easy to understand the importance of Khalifa International Stadium in terms of the upcoming world cup.
Design Of Khalifa International Stadium
The design of the Khalifa International Stadium is a real highlight for travelers. While the old design of the stadium was appealing to watch, the new additions are no less attractive. The Qatar football stadium has got a new canopy that stretches below the dual arches and supports the cooling system of the stadium.
In addition to this, there is a new tier that has been added to upgrade the seating capacity of the stadium by 12000 seats. As for the look of the stadium, there are LED lights that make the arena even more appealing to visitors today.
Stadium Post The World Cup
Now here's a thing, the Khalifa International Stadium is already a pivotal part of the country's sporting culture. Once the world cup gets over, the stadium would again play a big hand in the development of sports in the region. People would get world-class facilities in and around the arena as part of the National Vision of Qatar.
Location - Al Waab St, Doha, Qatar
Seating Capacity - 40,000 (+12000 for the world cup)
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5. Al Janoub Stadium
Located in Al Wakrah and one of the most popular stadiums in the region, the Al Janoub Stadium first opened on 16th May 2019 with the Amir Cup Final. This is another Qatar football stadium that has a seating capacity of 40,000 and will be one of the venues for the upcoming world cup in the country. Interestingly, the stadium even witnessed the semi-final of the 24th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup in December 2019 when Qatar took on Saudi Arabia. Hence, as far as Al Janoub Stadium goes, this is an arena that is familiar to sports fans in the region by now.
Design Of Al Janoub Stadium
If there's one thing that is striking about the Al Janoub Stadium in Qatar, that is its design. The design of the stadium is inspired by Dhow boats which have been a pivotal part of the country's culture over time. These are the very boats that have been for pearl chases in the Arabian waters, and since Al Wakrah was the center of pearl trading in Qatar for long, the design of this stadium just seems all the more perfect.
Stadium Post The World Cup
Once the FIFA World Cup gets over, the Al Janoub Qatar football Stadium would be used as a venue for many cultural and local events in the country. The stadium's seating capacity would be reduced to 20,000 while the other seating stands would be donated to sporting projects around the world.
Location - Al Wakrah
Seating Capacity - 40,000
6. Al Thumama Stadium
One of the places to visit in Qatar today as the world cup edges closer, the Al Thumama Stadium would be another popular arena to look forward to in the country when the world cup kicks off. The stadium is located just 12 KM to the south of Doha's gorgeous skyline and waterfront promenade. For travelers, this is a stadium that is set to be a massive attraction and a true symbolism of the country's culture. Interestingly, the Al Thumama Stadium would be hosting matches through to the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
Design Of Al Thumama Stadium
As far as Qatar World Cup Stadiums go, the Al Thumama Stadium has one of the most unique designs of all. The stadium's design is inspired by Gahfiya which is a traditional woven cap worn by men and boys across the Middle East. The cap isn't just a reflection of Qatar's culture but is also a symbol of the country's dignity and independence.
Stadium Post The World Cup
Much like the other venues, the seating capacity of the Al Thumama Stadium would be reduced to 20,000 after the world cup and the rest would be donated for the greater good. The remaining arena would host local events in the city.
Location - Doha, Qatar
Seating Capacity - 40,000
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7. Ras Abu Aboud Stadium
If there's one Qatar football stadium that fits perfectly with the standards of sustainability, then it's the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium. One of the finest footballing arenas to be built for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the country, the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium is a pioneer in stadium development. The arena has been constructed with the help of shipping containers, removable seats, and building blocks in what may arguably be one of the most unique footballing venues around the world. The arena, in fact, would have a maximum seating capacity of 40,000 during the world cup.
Design Of Ras Abu Aboud Stadium
The design of the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium is one of its main highlights. The stadium has been built using certified shipping containers and building blocks which reflects Doha's long maritime history. The design is bold, distinctive, and ultra-modern as far as facilities are concerned. Hence, football fans can expect to have the best of time when watching a game at this Qatar football stadium.
Stadium Post The World Cup
Now here's a thing, once the FIFA World Cup gets over in Qatar, the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium would be completely dismantled and repurposed. The stadium even has removable seats which speak volumes about the fine standards of sustainability in the construction of the arena.
Location - Doha, Qatar
Seating Capacity - 40,000
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8. Education City Stadium
Nestled in the heart of Qatar's Educational hub, the Education City Stadium was officially completed in June 2020. It is one of the best Qatar World Cup stadiums with a seating capacity of around 40,000 set for the competition. In fact, Education City has a history of hosting high-profile matches. The stadium has hosted some major international friendlies, a couple of which have been knockout ties. For travelers, the whole city tour certainly features a visit to the Education City Stadium, and with the arena planning to host the world cup, this adds a lot more significance to it.
Design Of Education City Stadium
As far as the design of Education City Stadium is concerned, the arena is a true reflection of how Islamic architecture can be coupled with striking modernity. There is a façade that forms diamond-like patterns while the whole stadium appears to change colors with the sun's movement during the day. As for the night, this Qatar football stadium puts on a remarkable light show which is a sight you would not want to miss.
Stadium Post The World Cup
Following the trends with other venues of the world cup, 20,000 seats would be removed from the Education City Stadium in Qatar and would be donated to other countries in need of good sporting infrastructure. The rest of the stadium would be used by university teams and students for various purposes.
Location - Education City, Qatar
Seating Capacity - 40,000
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Other Stadiums In Qatar That Sporting Fans Should Know About
We know about the top sporting arenas that are set to be venues for the upcoming world cup in the country, right? But there are many other stadiums in Qatar that have caught the attention of sporting fans from around the world. So, here are some of the other stadiums that are worth exploring on a vacation.
1. Al-Gharrafa Stadium
One of the best sporting arenas in Qatar that is also known by the name Thani bin Jassim Stadium, Al-Gharrafa is an arena that is generally used for football matches in Qatar. This is a multi-purpose stadium that can hold about 21,175 spectators at a time and was built in 2003. Having already hosted the AFC Asian Cup in 2011 and a number of other international level competitions, the arena has a completely different vibe about it when matches take place here.
Interestingly, the exterior of the stadium is set for a make-over in wake of the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the country. The stadium will have a new facade which would be made up of different colors of the flags of those nations that qualify for the world cup. With an exciting seating capacity of 25,000, the stadium has plans to expand the capacity to 44,740 to meet the world cup requirements in Qatar.
However, the expansion has not been launched yet and further developments are expected in the coming months ahead.
2. Qatar SC Stadium
Another multi-purpose stadium that carries huge importance in Qatar, the Qatar SC Stadium can hold about 15000 people at a time and has a considerable hosting history behind it. In fact, 2010 was the year when the arena hosted the Qatar Athletic Super Grand Prix. In the same year, the stadium hosted the 2010 Diamond League. Likewise, the Qatar SC Stadium also hosted the 2011 edition of the AFC Asian Cup in the country.
Interestingly, if you can't recognize the stadium by its popular name, Qatar SC Stadium is also known by the name Suheim bin Hamad Stadium. So, if you're on a tour to Qatar and exploring the various sporting arenas of the country, this is one stadium that you've got to explore by all means.
Suggested Read: Can Host Nation Qatar Perform Well At The Upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022
3. Aspire Dome
Another multi-purpose arena that travelers should certainly be aware of, Aspire Dome is an indoor facility that is dome-based and is located in Aspire Academy in Doha. With a capacity of hosting about 13 different events simultaneously in a climate-controlled arena, the stadium has a full-sized football pitch which is one of the key things about it.
Speaking of its history, the stadium has hosted the 2006 Asian Games and the 2010 IAAF World Indoor Championships. Interestingly, the stadium also hosted the 2018 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships.
With facilities like an Olympic swimming pool, Olympic diving pool, multi-sports hall, volleyball hall, gymnasiums, sports science lab, and so much more, Aspire Dome has not one but multiple things to be admired for. So, what's making you wait? If you're a big fan of indoor games, this is a stadium you should definitely explore. Check with your tour operator and set up a whole tour of this arena in Qatar.
4. Grand Hamad Stadium
Popularly known as the Al Arabi Sports Club Stadium in Qatar, the Grand Hamad Stadium is the home ground of Al Arabi SC and is mostly used for football matches in Qatar. The stadium was in extensive use during the 2006 Asian Games and can hold up to 13000 people at present time.
Interestingly, the stadium has already been host to a range of sporting events including football, table tennis, rugby sevens, and fencing. Besides, the Iraq national football team played their 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification (AFC) matches at this very venue, as did the Yemen national football team in their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification (AFC) matches, which speaks a lot about the importance of this stadium in Qatar as far as football is concerned.
In fact, this is one of the very few stadiums in the country where international friendly matches have been held in the past.
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5. Saoud bin Abdulrahman Stadium
Also famous by the name Al Wakrah SC Stadium, the Saoud bin Abdulrahman Stadium is a multi-purpose arena that is used for football matches today, much like many of the other stadiums in the country. Home to the Al Wakrah sports club, the stadium currently has a seating capacity of 12000.
Interestingly, it is vital to note that the Saoud bin Abdulrahman Stadium will no longer be the home ground for Al Wakrah Sports Club. A new world cup venue is being built in the region which will be the new home to the Al Wakrah Sports Club after the FIFA World Cup gets over.
6. Qatar University Stadium
One of the finest universities in the Middle East, Qatar University is home to another iconic sporting arena by the name Qatar University Stadium. Nestled in the Al Tarfa district of Doha, the arena is commonly used for football matches and athletics events that are held in the university. In fact, the arena can host up to 10,000 spectators at the time and is set to play a major role for university students in the coming years. However, the new Education City Stadium may take its place as a popular ground for most events once the FIFA World Cup gets over.
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7. Al-Shamal SC Stadium
Now here's a thing, the Al shamal Stadium might be a small stadium in Qatar but it is, in fact, home to Qatar Stars League Team Al-Shamal SC. This is a football stadium that is located in Madinat ash Shamal Qatar and has a seating capacity of 5000.
Key Points To Note About The Upcoming FIFA World Cup
As the completion of world cup venues nears in Qatar, there are certain points that are worth discussing the upcoming FIFA 2022. There are many facts and figures that make the upcoming competition one of the best ever. Here's what you need to know.
1. FIFA 2022 To Be The First-Ever Winter World Cup
Now here's a thing, usually, the world cup takes place in the summer months in the Southern Hemisphere when the temperatures there are cool. However, with Qatar hosting the world cup this time around, things are different. This is a country nestled in the Northern Hemisphere where summer months see temperatures soar up to as high as 50 degrees and hosting a tournament of the level of the world cup becomes a tough ask. Hence, the world cup slot has been shifted to November - December, which makes it the first-ever winter world cup in the Northern Hemisphere.
2. Air-Conditioned Venues
Perhaps one of the most interesting facts about the venues for the upcoming FIFA World Cup is air-conditioning. Each venue for the world cup would be fully air-conditioned. This would not only prove beneficial for the players but would also provide better conditions for the viewers to come and watch the game live. In fact, considering that the day temperatures in Qatar can rise up during day times, this is a welcome enhancement to the world cup venues by the host nation.
3. Only Eight Venues For The World Cup
The FIFA World Cup 202 would only be played in eight stadiums which is the second-lowest number of venues in the history of the world cup. While seven stadiums have been newly constructed, one stadium has been completely revamped by Qatar as the host continues to spend a whopping amount in preparations for the upcoming world cup. Hence, it would be interesting to see how the tournament plays out at only eight venues in Qatar.
4. Commutability With The World Cup
Now here's a thing, Qatar is a small country, and commuting from one place to another here isn't a big hassle for travelers. Having said that, the country has developed the Doha Metro line which connects each venue. Likewise, there are highways and roads which lower the travel from one venue to the other considerably. In fact, the metro line is expected to ferry an estimated 1 million passengers during the world cup. As believed by experts, the number may even be higher.
5. Most Expensive FIFA Event Ever
It's safe to say that Qatar is leaving no stones unturned in making the FIFA World Cup 2022 a big success. The host nation has spent an estimated $200 billion on infrastructure projects ahead of the competition. This includes the construction of roads, highways, setting up of street lights, the building of hotels, and so much more.
Interestingly, the construction of venues is a major part of that as Qatar is building seven new stadiums and completely revamping one. But having said that, the amount of money being spent on the preparations may well be justified, and here's why - history offers a piece of evidence on how major competitions have benefitted host nations in the long run. Not only do these competitions bring a major boost to the tourism industry but they can massively boost the economy. Hence, the fact that Qatar is spending such a big amount on preparations for the world cup seems perfectly understandable.
Qatar, perhaps the richest country in the world, prepares for a footballing spectacle like no other. The country is estimated to spend a whopping $200 billion on infrastructure projects ahead of the world cup, and the venues are a major part of that. In fact, there will be a total of eight stadiums in Qatar where the whole FIFA World Cup would be hosted with world-class facilities, centralized cooling systems, and sustainability measures of the highest levels; these arenas are a true example of modern innovation.
So, what's making you wait? Have you planned your trip to Qatar yet? If you haven't, then avail the Qatar holiday package soon and enjoy a memorable vacation in one of the richest countries in the Middle East.
FAQs
As the FIFA World Cup edges closer, only eight stadiums have been lined up in the country to host the whole competition. This will be the first time that the world cup will be held with only eight stadiums.
The FIFA World Cup 2022 would begin with the opening match on November 22nd, 2022 while the final has been scheduled for 18th December 2022.
The Lusail Stadium would be the venue for the final of the world cup which is set to take place on the 18th of December 2022. The stadium, as the name suggests, is nestled in the modern hamlet of Qatar and has the highest seating capacity as set for the world cup.
In terms of the seating capacity, the Lusail Stadium is the biggest stadium in Qatar. As per records, the stadium would have a maximum seating capacity of over 80000 for the world cup which is the highest amongst all other venues.
Qatar, one of the finest countries in the Middle East, would be the host nation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022. This would be the first world cup in the Middle East.
Once the FIFA World Cup gets over in Qatar, the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium would be completely dismantled and repurposed. The stadium has removable seats which speak volumes about the fine standards of sustainability in the construction of the arena.
The Al Thumama Stadium has one of the most unique designs of all. The stadium's design is inspired by Gahfiya which is a traditional woven cap worn by men and boys across the Middle East. The cap isn't just a reflection of Qatar's culture but is also a symbol of the country's dignity and independence.
Yes, considering the extreme summer temperatures in Qatar when it will be virtually impossible to host any competition in the country, the decision has been taken to shift the world cup from its usual summer slot to November and December slot for 2022.
Yes, the exterior of the stadium is set for a make-over in wake of the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the country. The stadium will have a new facade which would be made up of different colors of the flags of those nations that qualify for the world cup. With an exciting seating capacity of 25,000, the stadium has plans to expand the capacity to 44,740 to meet the world cup requirements in Qatar. However, the expansion has not been launched yet and further developments are expected in the coming months ahead.
Yes, another multi-purpose arena that travelers should certainly be aware of, Aspire Dome is an indoor facility that is dome-based and is located in Aspire Academy in Doha. With a capacity of hosting about 13 different events simultaneously in a climate-controlled arena, the stadium has a full-sized football pitch which is one of the key things about it. With facilities like an Olympic swimming pool, Olympic diving pool, multi-sports hall, volleyball hall, gymnasiums, sports science lab, and so much more, Aspire Dome has not one but multiple things to be admired for.
Popularly known as the Al Arabi Sports Club Stadium in Qatar, the Grand Hamad Stadium is the home ground of Al Arabi SC and is mostly used for football matches in Qatar. The stadium was in extensive use during the 2006 Asian Games and can hold up to 13000 people at present time. In fact, it has already been host to a range of sporting events including football, table tennis, rugby sevens, and fencing. The Iraq national football team played their 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification (AFC) matches at this very venue, as did the Yemen national football team in their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification (AFC) matches
Yes, Qatar University is home to another iconic sporting arena by the name Qatar University Stadium. Nestled in the Al Tarfa district of Doha, the arena is commonly used for football matches and athletics events that are held in the university. In fact, the arena can host up to 10,000 spectators at the time and is set to play a major role for university students in the coming years.
