FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Stadiums: An experience extraordinaire

By Vishnupriya Prasannan

  ●   28 Apr 22

Destinations

Lifestyle

Middle East

 

Qatar is getting all ready to welcome the most anticipated global event, the FIFA World Cup 2022. The event will be the first world cup ever held in Qatar and the Middle East, it was announced back in 2010 by FIFA, and ever since, preparations for stadiums have been going on at godspeed. The authorities are focusing on controlling the temperature inside the stadiums; since the country falls under the critical climate condition category. Each stadium will have a training facility and fan zone equipped with solar-powered cooling technology to keep the temperature at 27 degrees. The stadiums are built eco-friendly, and the temperature can be controlled.

Know all about these stunning stadiums, design details, the World Cup schedule, and more.

 

Witness True Man-Made Wonders!

 

Al Bayt Stadium

Al Bayt Stadium will be hosting the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2022, and it is one of the largest venues as well. The stadium is located in Al Khor, a famous city for pearl diving and fishing.

Image of Al Bayt stadium
A traditional nomadic design stadium. Source: Qatar 2022.com
Stadium Capacity 60,000
Matches Planned Opening games and all matches through to the semi-finals.

 

Design

The stadium is designed with a blend of tradition and modernity. The stadium structure also reflects the nomadic tribe’s tents in Qatar. The aim is to provide a taste of traditional design from the region to the visitors. The modular construction will mean that the upper tier of seats can be removed after the FIFA World Cup 2022. As attractive as the stadium is, it is practical as well.

Sustainability

Qatar’s attempts to organize the most ecologically friendly FIFA World Cup include incorporating optimal energy usage techniques and green building materials in the venues.

Things to do in Al Khor

As the city is famous for pearl diving and fishing, there are many places you may visit and enjoy. Here are a few suggestions for you:

  • Al Thakira
  • Al Khor park
  • The Purple Island
  • Farkeh Beach

 

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, situated in Al Rayyan, is famous for the city’s love for football and is home to the huge football team Al Rayyan Sports Club. The stadium is named after the Emir of Qatar from 1960 to 1972, Ahmad Bin Ali Al Thani. Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium has hosted four tournaments during the FIFA Arab Cup 2021.

Image of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium
A stunning, glowing façade of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium. Source: Qatar 2022.com
Stadium Capacity 40,000
Matches Planned Group matches, rounds of 16

 

Design

The stadium reflects Qatari culture, and has incorporated geometric designs often seen in the Islamic architecture. The patterns define various parts of the country, such as “the value of family, the beauty of the desert, local and international trade.”

Sustainability

Over 80% of the materials utilized in constructing this new stadium were recycled from the old stadium complex. And the rest of the materials used were chosen with criteria of eco-friendly qualities. Bike lanes and walking paths are close to the stadium. Fans attending the world cup can always go to the stadium using the environmentally efficient metro system. 

Things to do in Al Rayyan

Al Rayyan is an attractive city in Qatar with many fascinating places to visit. So when you are in Al Rayyan, do not forget to check out these places: 

  • Zekreet Beach
  • Mall of Qatar
  • Film City

Education City Stadium

Education city is an area developed in Al Rayyan, Qatar, by the Qatar Foundation. This site has many educational facilities, including eight international university satellite campuses. These academic facilities and sports organizations surround the Stadium. Education City Stadium is all ready to give fans an amazing experience and a bright future for football. It is easily accessible by road or metro. After the World Cup, the stadium will keep 25,000 seats for university sports teams.

Image of Education City Stadium
A stunning blend of modernity and Islamic architecture’s past. Source: Qatar2022.com
Stadium Capacity 40,000
Matches Planned Group matches, rounds of 16, and quarter-finals

 

Design

The stadium is designed like a jagged diamond, representing quality, durability, and resilience. The triangular design on the façade is a tribute to the traditional arabesque patterns. The façade color will change according to the sun’s movement. At night, there will be a special light show to create a feast for the eyes of all.

Sustainability

Throughout the construction of this stadium, the developers were environmentally conscious of the design, which helped them reduce the stadium’s carbon footprint throughout its lifetime.

Fun Fact: Excavators discovered rocks dating back 20-30 million years during construction, forcing them to dig 17 meters deeper so the pitch could build below sea level, where temperatures are cooler.

Things to do in Al Rayyan

When you are visiting the beautiful city of Al Rayyan, make sure you pay a visit to these spots:

  • Musfer Sinkhole
  • KidzMondo Doha
  • Bin Jassim Castle

 

Stadium 974

Stadium 974 has already attracted many people with its design during the launch and is the most innovative stadium design of all eight structures. The number 974 is significant as the stadium is built with 974 shipping containers, and it is the international dialing code for Qatar. The visitors can enjoy Doha’s skyscrapers’ view from across the sky.

Image of Stadium 974
Stadium 974 presents an innovative and sustainable design. Source: Qatar2022.com
Stadium Capacity 40,000
Matches Planned Group matches and rounds of 16

 

Design

The venue construction with certified shipping containers and modular steel elements resonates with the maritime history of Doha. Fenwick Iribarren Architects designed the concept of the stadium. The stadium also reflects Qatar’s commitment to sustainability.

Sustainability

Once you visit Stadium 974, you will understand that the stadium reflects the true essence of sustainability. The stadium will offer a natural cool breeze from the bay and the stadium’s cooling system. After completing the World Cup, the stadium will be dismantled and set for the local community as a waterfront development.

Things to do in Doha

The capital city of Qatar. Doha has a lot to offer when it comes to tourist spots. So when you are in Doha, don’t miss a chance to visit these places:

  • Ras Bu Aboud beach
  • National Museum of Qatar

 

Khalifa International Stadium

The Khalifa International Stadium was originally built in 1976, and in 2017, the stadium was renovated in preparation for the 2022 World Cup. The stadium is also known as the National Stadium. Khalifa stadium was named after Qatar’s former Emir, Khalifa bin Hamed Al Thani.

Image of Khalifa International Stadium
A perfect glimpse into the past. Source: Qatar2022.com
Stadium Capacity 40,000
Matches Planned Group matches and rounds of 16, and play off for third place.

 

Design

The stadium is a blend of ultra-modern techniques with a trace from the past. The stadium is fully equipped with “innovative cooling technology,” providing a comfortable setting for the players. A single roof will be added to the structure to cover the seating areas, and the new east wing will have amenities like food courts, shops, multi-purpose rooms, VIP lounges, a museum, and a health center.

Sustainability

The construction of a massive new roof canopy was one of the most significant alterations to the stadium. It helps to maintain a proper temperature in the stadium apart from the advanced cooling systems, providing a simple, green approach to an environmental concern. A historic stadium like this kept sustainability an integral part and a priority.

Things to do in Doha

Doha offers several tourist spots where you can pay a visit and enjoy; here are a few suggestions:

  • Museum of Islamic Art
  • Souq Waif
  • The Pearl – Island

Al Janoub Stadium

The Al Janoub Stadium and its surroundings are ready with beautiful parkland and elegant architecture. The Al Janoub Stadium is located in the southern city of Al Wakrah. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, buy unique local wares at the Souq or discover the area’s rich history at a museum.

Image of Al Janoub Stadium
A futuristic-looking stadium. Source: Qatar2022.com
Stadium Capacity 40,000
Matches Planned Group matches and rounds of 16

Design

Al Janoub Stadium was inspired by the historic dhow boats used in Al Wakrah. During the inauguration, a tribute was paid to Al Wakrah’s history and Zaha Hadid, the architect whose firm built the stadium’s strikingly futuristic shape. 

Sustainability

The stadium’s shape is built to give proper shade and a remarkably green temperature control method. The stadium includes a vast portion of green spaces around the complex. These stunning parks will have horseback riding, running pathways, cycle lanes, over 800 new trees, and low-water-consumption vegetation.

Things to do in Al Wakrah

Al Wakrah has the most beautiful parks and beaches. When you are in Al Wakrah, never miss a chance to visit these places:

  • Al Wakrah Souq
  • Port Al Wakrah
  • Ezdan Mall
  • Al Wakrah park

Al-Thumama Stadium

Al Thumama Stadium is yet another stadium with stunning design and architecture. The stadium lies in Doha’s southern locality, within a couple of miles away from Hamad International Airport.

Image of Al Thumama Stadium
An epitome of Arab tradition and culture. Source: Qatar2022.com
Stadium Capacity 40,000
Matches Planned Group matches and rounds of 16, and quarter-finals

 

Design

The stadium is built in the shape of a ghafiya; men and boys wore traditional woven caps all across the Arab countries. The ghafiya signifies dignity and independence—the environment surrounding the project and its design focus on the significance of ecological and social architecture.

Sustainability

Compared to a conventional stadium, the stadium saves 40% more freshwater by watering green areas with recycled water. The design incorporates a 50,000-square-meter park space, with native trees covering 84 percent of the landscape.

Things to do in Doha

  • Doha Corniche
  • Katara Cultural Village
  • Barzan towers

These are a few exciting places you can visit in Doha.

 

Lusail Stadium

Lusail Stadium is one of the key stadiums of Qatar’s World Cup and will hold the closing ceremony for the 2022 event. It is located in Al Daayen, part of the constructed Lusail City. Lusail Stadium is the largest of all eight structures.

Image of Lusail Stadium
A centerpiece of Lusail city. Source: Qatar2022.com
Stadium Capacity 80,000
Matches Planned From the first match through the final match

 

Design

The venue’s sheer size and its exquisite, muted gold façade will evoke an impression of aged metal handicrafts as time passes. The stadium bowl will be adorned with elaborate detail reminiscent of decorative items from the past and a great flowing, wavy trim that would make anyone wonder in awe. The design is inspired by the Fanar lantern’s interplay of light and shadow. The façade of the building is inspired by extensive themes found in art and furniture from the Arab and Islamic nations’ early civilizations.

Sustainability

For its prime spot in Lusail, the developers recently constructed town, the stadium’s master planning includes a tram system and beautiful green spaces, transforming it into a long-term arena that prioritizes environmental conservation. Once the event is done, the stadium will be transformed into a multi-purpose community hub with schools, stores, cafés, sporting facilities, and health clinics.

Things to do in Lusail

Lusail is home to many notable buildings and is a hypermodern city. Here are some recommendations for places to visit in the city:

  • Crescent Park
  • Lusail Marina 
  • Place Vendome Mall

Qatar is known for its hospitality and how friendly the place is, especially for travelers. The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will be the most expensive world cup hosted till now. And Qatar will be a treat for all football fans around the world. Rehlat has many travel packages, including flights, tickets, and hotels for this year’s world cup. Do check out our website and book your tickets to Qatar now!

Vishnupriya Prasannan

Making spontaneous travel plans and good surprises are something I ace at. Big-time movie buff and series addict. If not watching a movie, you can find me lost with a book. Still waiting for my letter from Hogwarts.

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FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Stadiums: An experience extraordinaire