world cup 2022 trips

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.

Doha the capital of the state of Qatar. View from the airplane window

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.

Al Thumama Stadium located in Qatar for the 2022 for FIFA World Cup

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).

Plus, where else to travel in the region

The Small Concept Hangouts Challenging Dubai’s Maximalist Reputation

2022 World Cup Travel Packages

2022 world cup in qatar.

2022 World Cup Packages - 2022 World Cup Packages

World Cup Travel Packages

Area Map & Venues

World Cup Qatar 2022 Packages

The world’s most prestigious and highly anticipated event in the world of international football soccer – The 2022 World Cup – is coming soon. Make 2022 the year that you see the World Cup with your own eyes, in fascinating Qatar! The FIFA World Cup is a unique life experience immersed in passion, culture and a HUGE soccer community with a big GOAL as an anthem. Are you ready to plan your dream trip?

Held for the first time in Qatar, the 2022 FIFA World Cup will be holding its 21st tournament to date. 32 teams, including your host Qatar and fan favorites Brazil, Spain, France, and Mexico, have qualified to compete November 20 to December 18. Register now and get your tickets before they sell out. Our experienced Sport Travel Specialists are ready to help you.

Get Front of the Line Access for our 2022 World Cup Packages.

For front of the line access to this highly anticipated event, get in touch by contacting one of our World Cup Specialists at +1 (619) 922-7328 or by submitting a Trip Quote request online.

This should be removed entirely, and there should be a phrase on the image below that states, Click Here to See Packages.

2022 World Cup In Qatar

The 2022 World Cup is set for November and December in seven cities throughout Qatar, a tiny Middle Eastern country rising above the beautiful Persian Gulf. Qatar is a small country with a population of 2 million. It is considered home to the wealthiest area of hydrocarbon exploration, which has promoted a unique infrastructure with a luxury style, combined with the latest technological advances.

Because Qatar is located relatively close to the equator, the tournament will be held during the winter so that athletes and fans can enjoy a more temperate climate. Compared to the unprecedented scale and distances of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, the matches in Qatar will be much closer together, and visitors will enjoy always being close to the action!

The rigorous bidding process and infrastructure requirements for hosting a World Cup are putting pressure on Qatar to carry out social reforms to set a progressive example for the rest of the Middle East. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to witness history, follow your favorite teams, and visit this unique and beautiful country.

Qatar offers gorgeous beaches, enticing markets, world-class museums, impressive architecture, and unique landscapes.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

When you travel with Sports Travel Fan, you’ll be fully taken care of every step of the way by our friendly and professional team.

Qatar is a premium travel destination compared to other World Cup Host Countries, and quality accommodation is in high demand and limited. For this reason, each STF package includes premium service, which our experienced PR team would happily assist you with. Their one goal: is to make your dream trip personal and unique.

We Take Care of All the Details

A dedicated personal concierge will be at your service to assist with all the small details that will make your trip perfect. Please take advantage of their expertise in recommendations and reservations for things like restaurants, tee times, additional matches, tours, and more. The goal of our concierge staff is to be sure you have everything you need and that you’re fully prepared before you set off to the matches.

During your stay in Doha, you’ll have 24/7 access to our host team of area specialists and local, multilingual experts. They’ll do everything to take the stress out of your holiday and make your experience as seamless as possible. Our high-touch service includes a meet-and-greet when you arrive, staying in close contact with you throughout your stay, and seeing you off when it is time to leave. You can be sure that our host team is at your disposal anytime via phone, text, email, or in person for anything you need during your 2022 World Cup experience.

The world’s most prestigious and highly anticipated event in the world of international football soccer – 2022 World Cup Qatar – is coming soon. Make 2022 the year that you see the World Cup with your own eyes, in fascinating Qatar!

Every four years the world is riveted with more than half of the world population tuning in to watch at least one game of the World Cup. This time because of severe climate conditions in Qatar in summer, World Cup dates are set for November 21 and conclude on December 18.

2022 World Cup Travel Packages - 2022 World Cup Travel Packages - 2022 World Cup Travel Packages - 2022 World Cup Travel Packages - 2022 World Cup Travel Packages - 2022 World Cup Travel Packages | 2022 Qatar World Cup Travel Packages | 2022 Qatar World Cup Travel Packages | 2022 World Cup Travel Packages | 2022 Qatar World Cup Travel Packages | 2022 Qatar World Cup Travel Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Travel Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages | 2022 World Cup Packages - 2022 World Cup Travel Packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - qatar world cup packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup 2022 packages - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022 - world cup packages 2022

Package Code: 8D7N 1.0

What´s included:.

WITHOUT FLIGHT: $7,599.00 USD
WITH FLIGHT: $9,999.00 USD
USA-QATAR-USA
1 MATCH CATEGORY 2
4 Stars Daily breakfast included
AIRPORT-HOTEL-AIRPORT
HOTEL-STADIUMS-HOTEL
Official Jersey (Selection to Follow)
During your entire stay in Qatar
Assistance processing FAN ID
We are operator, not travel agency
Sports Travel Experts
Unique operator with a 100% satisfactory rating in RUSSIA 2018
All taxes included
Interest free financing
Monthly payment plan
Diefiere your payments in 32 Monthly
From $ 230.00 USD
Book today with $699.00 USD

Itinerary calendar

** Flying to Qatar **

** Arrival to Qatar **

** Nights stay in Qatar **

** Departure to your city **

Package Code: 8D7N 1.1

What includes:.

1 MATCH "OPENING GAME" CATEGORY 2
Diefiere your payments in 30 Monthly
From $ 270.00 USD

** Inaugural game day **

Package Code: 13D12N 2.0

WITHOUT FLIGHT: $10,599.00 USD
WITH FLIGHT: $12,999.00 USD
2 MATCH CATEGORY 2
From $ 323.00 USD
Book today with $ 899.00 USD

Package Code: 16D15N 3.1

WITHOUT FLIGHT: $12,599.00 USD
WITH FLIGHT: $14,999.00 USD
3 MATCH CATEGORY 2
From $ 385.50 USD
Book today with $ 1,034.00 USD

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.

Download PDF

About Qatar Airways

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Airline’ for the unprecedented eighth time at the 2024 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. Qatar Airways has been the World’s Best Airline in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024. The airline continues to be synonymous with excellence, also taking home, ‘World's Best Business Class’, ‘World's Best Business Class Airline Lounge’, and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’. As leaders in industry innovation and digital adoption, Qatar Airways was also 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 over 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, the ‘World’s Best Airport’, as voted by Skytrax in 2021, 2022, and 2024. In 2024, Hamad International Airport also received the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ accolade for 10 consecutive years, as well as ‘World’s Best Airport Shopping’ for the second year in a row.

Contact details

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

Share news release

Receive exclusive news

Are you a journalist or do you work for a publication? Sign up and request access to exclusive news.

Receive Qatar Airways news by email .

Destination Qatar
Announcements

Your information is only used to send you news and will never be shared with third parties. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with Qatar Airways's Privacy Policy .

Please confirm your subscription

Thank you for subscribing–we're almost there. We just need to confirm your email address so we know we're sending news to the right person.

The confirmation email will arrive in your inbox shortly.

You can close this window .

Receive Qatar Airways news on your RSS reader .

Find news releases, media kits and clippings

Media library Find media files
News archive Find news
Media inquiry? Contact media team
About Get to know us

Car Rentals
Airport Transfers
Attractions & Tours
Flight + Hotel
Destinations
Trip.com Rewards

FIFA Qatar World Cup 2022: Top 10 tourist attractions you can’t miss in Qatar

When and where is the FIFA Qatar World Cup 2022?

What's new at fifa qatar world cup 2022, new visa rules during the fifa qatar world cup 2022, pre-travel covid-19 tests, pcr/rat tests on arrival for citizens/residents, ehteraz health application, fifa world cup 2022: qatar allows free entry for fans from december 2 😉, latest information of fifa world cup 2022, 👏france, argentina set for 2022 fifa world cup final, 👏quarter-final line-up:, 😍confirmed world cup quarter-final fixtures, 😍semi-final fixtures, what is the world cup group draw, fifa world cup 2022 qatar match schedule, currency import regulations, disabled access, drinking water, electric supply, embassies & consulates, healthcare facilities, internet connectivity, islamic holidays, meet & greet services, official holidays, public display of affection, telecom service provider, year of culture, top 10 tourist attractions you can’t miss in qatar, 1. museum of islamic art: explore architect i.m. pei’s masterpieces, 2. khor al adaid: a paradise of tranquility and relaxation, 3. al zubarah archaeological site: a gateway to qatar’s past, 4. doha corniche: best place to while away summer heat at nights, 5. the pearl island: a shopping paradise for travelers, 6. souq waqif: a feast for the eyes, 7. national museum of qatar: uncover qatar's unique story, 8. katara cultural village: a hub for art and culture lovers, 9. film city: a hidden gem of qatar, tourist attractions you can't miss during the fifa qatar world cup 2022, our trip choices 😉.

😉Read more:

Show More 

Qatar’s burgeoning capital city — Doha has been in the spotlight as the FIFA World Cup 2022 will kick off on November 20, and run until December 18.

As a busy transition hub, Qatar connects many destinations all over the world. Thanks to the convenient transportation, all 8 stadiums built in and around the city of Doha could be easily reached by subways and buses.

The 2022 Qatar World Cup kicks off on November 20 at the Al Bayt Stadium when the hosts take on Ecuador in Group A.

The tournament was originally set to begin a day later with Senegal's game against the Netherlands at Al Thumama Stadium but Qatar's match was moved forward to allow them to open their home tournament.

England will now feature on the second day with their Group B match against Iran scheduled to take place on November 21 with a 1pm UK time kick-off. The game is just eight days after the Premier League shuts down.

After qualifying via the play-offs, Wales' first game will also be on November 21.

Wales will then play England on November 29 in Group B.

The final will be played at the Lusail Stadium in Doha a week before Christmas on December 18.

1. It is the first time that the World Cup is held in an Arab country.

2. It is the first time that the World Cup is held in the northern hemisphere winter.

3. It is the first World Cup to bring in female referees and to use semi-automatic offside technology.

FIFA Qatar World Cup 2022: Travel requirements

Many countries across the globe have specific regulations in place for arriving and departing passengers in order to restrain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Visitors could read and check the travel requirements through the official website of Qatar Airway before booking your trip and ensure you have the required documents at the time of travel.

Transit through Doha

Passengers who are transiting through Doha, and not leaving the airport, are not required to present any test results or certifications above the requirements of their departure or destination country.

Before booking your flight with Qatar Airways, it’s recommended that visitors need to check the latest information on country/region travel restrictions as well as visa and passport requirements.

Citizens of over 95 countries are eligible for visa-free entry into Qatar. How long you are allowed to stay will depend on where you're from, so best to check beforehand. Ideally with an authorized entity, because the terms and conditions that apply can be different per country.

New visa rules apply during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 period of November 10 to December 23.

It’s reminded that both local and international fans must apply for a Hayya Card before they make a trip to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Hayya Card is your entry permit to the State of Qatar and will also be required to access to stadiums. Each guest under your FIFA Ticket Application Number will need to apply for their own Hayya Card and the process is easy.

Qatar entry rules

Visitors are no longer required to bring a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Rapid Antigen test certificate before travelling to the State of Qatar.

Citizens and residents of the State of Qatar are no longer required to take a Rapid Antigen test (nor PCR) upon their arrival in the State of Qatar.

Individuals are mandated to present the health status on the Ehteraz mobile application only while entering public and private healthcare facilities in Qatar.

It is mandatory for individuals to present the health status of the Ehteraz application when entering public and private healthcare facilities in Qatar.

The Health Status for citizens, residents, visitors who have received the vaccine outside Qatar will remain green without a golden frame until their vaccine data is updated in the system or through the Overseas Vaccine Portal (www.ehteraz.gov.qa).

The Health Status on the Ehteraz app will remain red throughout the isolation period, until the end of their period of isolation.

Diplomats, administrative card holders and VIP visitors arriving on official state visits are excluded from this measure.

Recently, Qatar has eased COVID restrictions on international visitors travelling during the World Cup and will allow free entry for fans from December 2 when the group stage ends.

Argentina won the FIFA World Cup 2022 final after a penalty shootout that followed a 3-3 draw after extra time on December 18 (Sunday).

Lionel Messi scored twice and Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick, but Emiliano Martinez's save from Kingsley Coman's spot-kick in the shootout was decisive with Aurelien Tchouameni also firing wide for the defending champions.

🤞Argentina airline adds 2 more flights for 2022 FIFA World Cup final

Argentina’s national carrier scheduled two extra flights from Buenos Aires to Qatar to take football fans to the 2022 World Cup final.

Both Aerolíneas Argentinas flights sold out quickly. The first one leaves from Argentina’s capital on Friday morning, and tickets for that flight were gone within a half-hour of the national team’s 3-0 victory over Croatia in the semifinals on Tuesday.

Tickets for the second flight, which leaves Friday night, went on sale early Wednesday and were sold out within a couple of hours, the airline said in a statement.

The airline sold 540 roundtrip tickets for the two flights, with each one costing around 2 million pesos (more than $11,000). Aerolíneas Argentinas has offered a total of 12 flights for the World Cup.

Time: Friday December 9

Croatia vs Brazil - Kick-off 3pm

Netherlands vs Argentina - Kick-off 7pm

Time: Saturday December 10

Morocco vs Portugal - Kick-off 3pm

England vs France - Kick-off 7pm

Time: Tuesday December 13

Netherlands or Argentina vs Croatia or Brazil - Kick-off 7pm

Time: Wednesday December 14

England or France vs Morocco or Portugal - Kick-off 7pm

The FIFA 2022 Qatar World Cup begins with 32 teams in eight groups of four:

The group phase played from November 20 to December 2. The knockout phase will run from December 3-18 .

FIFA Qatar World Cup 2022: Top 10 tourist attractions you can’t miss in Qatar

Travel tips in Qatar

Qatar is a destination that offers novel, authentic experiences. Here are some tips that will help better navigate the local culture and fully enjoy your time in Qatar.

Attitudes towards dress in Qatar are relaxed, but visitors (men as well as women) are expected to show respect for local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothing in public. It is generally recommended for men and women to ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.

This is widely expected at Souq Waqif and other traditional markets.

The Qatari riyal is the only currency used in the country and can be obtained through ATMs which are widely available in malls, hotels and around Doha. The Qatari Riyal (QR) is pegged against the US Dollar at QAR 3.64.

When bringing local currency (Qatar Riyal-QAR) and all other foreign currencies amounts equal to or higher than QAR 50,000 must be declared on arrival. This includes jewelry, precious metals or stones valued at QAR 50,000 or higher.

The Accessible Qatar smartphone app provides information about accessibility and facilities at different public and touristic venues across the country.

Ooredoo Qatar has partnered with Wheel the World to offer accessible tourist experiences to differently abled visitors.

In case of emergency, following specialised services are accessible for the deaf:

Call 992 using the 3G camera on your computer or cell phone;

Send an SMS to 992 clearly stating your problem and what service you need (ambulance, fire rescue, police), as well as your name, address, and any details;

Send an e-mail to [email protected] (it may take some time before you receive a response)

The World Health Organization estimates that 99% of Qatar has access to drinkable tap water. However, bottled water is widely consumed in Qatar with plenty of local and imported brands widely available.

The standard voltage is 240 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. Plug points are the same as in the UK. To use electric appliances made for the range of 100 V - 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), one needs a voltage converter or a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter.

Emergency telephone numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance:

Traffic & Patrol Police Department:

Doha is home to over 100 foreign embassies and a consulate. These are open for business from Sunday to Thursday and closed on Friday and Saturday, as well as all public holidays of both Qatar and the embassy's home country.

Friday timings

All business and commercial activity shuts down during Friday prayers in the morning (around 10am -12pm). Several shops remain closed on Fridays while malls open in the afternoon on Fridays.

Qatari ladies will not shake hands with men, and many men will not shake a lady’s hand as a gesture of respect.

In case of emergency, visitors can go to Hamad General Hospital’s network of hospitals and healthcare centers for care.

Qatar is the world’s first country to introduce a commercial 5G network. Free WIFI facilities are available at the Hamad International Airport and most public places including shopping malls, restaurants and parks.

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the month-long period of fasting. It is spent with family and friends, with much feasting, and goes on for three days, though shops and private businesses may reopen after one or two days.

The Hajj pilgrimageends with Eid Al Adha, also known as the “feast of sacrifice” and continues for four days.

Home to around a hundred nationalities, Qatar is a melting pot of cultures with numerous languages being spoken. Being an Arab country, the official language is Arabic, but English is commonly spoken at all public places.

Passengers arriving, departing or transiting through Hamad International Airport can avail Al Maha personalised Meet & Greet Services at Hamad International Airport.

Qatar National Day is celebrated on 18 December. Sports Day is also a national holiday celebrated on the second Tuesday of February each year. In addition to these two holidays the country is closed for three days during Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha.

As in all Middle Eastern countries, showing overt affection and intimacy in public is frowned upon.

During the Islamic month of Ramadan, visitors are expected to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public places during the daylight hours out of respect to those who are fasting. Hotels continue to cater to guests by opening restaurants that are out of the public’s view.

Qatar is a Muslim country and Islam plays an integral role in daily life. Prayers take place five times per day: at dawn (Fajr), around midday (Duhr), in mid-afternoon (A'asr), at sunset (Maghrib) and about two hours after sunset (‘Esha). The exact timing varies each day according to the sun's position.

Qatar has been ranked first in terms of safety and security, according Numbeo Crime Index 2020, the world’s largest database of user contributed data on cities and countries.

Smoking is prohibited in all public spaces including museums, sports clubs, shopping malls and restaurants. Violators can be subject to fines between QAR 1000-3000.

Passengers transiting through Doha can take advantage of Qatar’s unmatched stopover program to explore the destination. The +Qatar program offers great deals at 4- and 5- Star hotels.

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) regulates the telecommunications, information technology, and postal sectors, as well as access to digital media. Ensuring balancing consumers’ rights and telecom Service Providers’ obligations is a top priority for CRA. If you have inquiries or complaints against telecom Service Providers, you can contact us through:

· Hotline 103, or +97444069938 from overseas

· Email: [email protected]

· Complaint Form: https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/Services/Consumers-Complaints

· Social media: @craqatar

· Mobile App: “Arsel” on Google Play and App Store

For more information please visit CRA’s website: www.cra.gov.qa

Most hospitality outlets in Qatar include a service charge in the bill. However, a tip of 10-15% as a gesture of satisfaction is appreciated. It is advisable to carry cash for tipping.

Qatar drives on the right hand side of the road.

Qatar has a desert climate with year-round sunshine, extreme temperatures during summer and mild winters. Average monthly temperatures range from 17°C in January to 36°C in July, sometimes reaching highs of 40°C+ during the summer months.

Conceived of in 2012 The Year of Culture is an initiative by Qatar Museums. Taking place with another country, the year-long cultural exchange programme invites people to explore a new culture, through a variety of exhibitions, festivals, competitions and events.

As Qatar gears up to host the first-ever World Cup, here we unveiled top 10 tourist attractions in Qatar and gave you the best travel insights into this oil-rich country.

Bursting with diverse world-class museums and cutting-edge art galleries, the Museum of Islamic Art has lured tourists from home and abroad to discover its unique charms and cultures. Designed by world-renowned architect I. M. Pei, the museum is noted as the crown jewel of museums in Qatar and has become one of the marvels of the modern Middle East.

Through great works of art, the Museum of Islamic Art is an ideal place to showcase the achievements of Islamic civilization and abundant Islamic cultures. Perched just off the Corniche, the museum looks like a gigantic broken Rubik cube floating on water from some angles. Looking from the inside, you will discover that the whole architecture is a masterpiece of light and space. In addition, the museum features year-round high-profile rotating exhibitions, adding highlights to the wealth of knowledge here.

No trip to Qatar would be complete without travelling to Khor Al Adaid. Located in northwest part of Qatar, just a short drive from the capital of Doha, the Khor AI Adaid, also known as the ‘Inland sea’, is the desert marvel of Qatar featuring backdrops of large, crescent-shaped sand dunes on the water’s edge — It is one of the few places in the world where the desert and sea meet, making a unique sight as ocean waves appear on the horizon beyond the dunes. The spectacular landscapes offer world-class experiences to travelers.

This scenic spot was declared a nature reserve in 2007 and was recommended to be the UNESCO world heritage site, which has witnessed the profound history of Qatar for years.

For those who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life and find inner peace, this site is actually a paradise of tranquility and relaxation.

Once a thriving pearl fishing and trading hub in late 18th century and early 19th century, AI Zubarah Archaeological Site is now a well-preserved and largest World heritage site in Qatar. The most famous spot is the old fort. Constructed in 1938 with high and thick walls, and fort has also served as a coastguard station.

with an impressive city wall, ancient residential palaces, streets, houses, markets, industrial areas and mosques, the Al Zubarah Archaeological Site is a gateway to Qatar’s past, as well as an ideal place for history lovers.

Stretched in a half-moon shape, the Doha Corniche is a waterfront palm-fringed boulevard which runs 7 kilometers along the Doha Bay and the city’s sea-front, offering views over the crystal-clear water from every angle.

Walking along the Corniche, you can view the magnificent urban landscapes, including the high-rise buildings in the CBD, the Museum of Islamic Art, gorgeous parks with children’s play areas, and many luxury hotels. Sometimes you could also see the traditional wooden sloops in the bay.

You might be told by locals not to take a stroll during the daytime in summer here as the weather is too hot and there is relatively little shade to be found. While it would be very cozy to while away the summer heat when taking a stroll along the corniche at night. The Doha corniche is indeed one of the most captivating parts of this capital city.

As one of the landmarks in Doha, the Pearl Island is an artificial island and situated off the coast of Doha’s west bay. The island is also a luxurious residential complex that features numerous residential buildings, villas and hotels, and the wharf is often full of luxury yachts.

A trip to the Pearl Island in Doha would leave you with a great impression before you leave the country. The island resembles Italy’s Venice on the whole, and it contains a variety of shopping centers, boardwalks and water taxis, making it a shopping paradise for travelers all over the world.

Home to many traditional Arabic restaurants and a focal point for locals and tourists, the vibrant complex Souq Waqif in Doha, built on the site of Doha’s century old trading market, is undoubtedly one of the most popular places to hang out with friends, particularly after dusk.

For newcomers, walking in the Souq Waqif was like walking in a maze of shops bursting with traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, household goods and souvenirs.

In addition, the Souq Waqif is also home to Falcon Souq where visitors can view the majestic birds standing on the shopkeeper’s arms.

Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the National Museum of Qatar tells the story of Qatar and its people from earliest times to the present, bringing to life the peninsula’s natural history, giving voice to Qatar’s rich heritage and culture, and expressing a vibrant community’s aspirations for the future.

Jean Nouvel’s new architecture incorporates the Palace while seamlessly integrating innovative artworks commissioned from Qatari and artists from home and abroad, rare and precious objects, documentary materials, and interactive learning opportunities.

The whole architecture is like the Desert Rose — not a plant, but a special geological phenomenon in the desert. Both exteriors and interiors of the building evokes a feeling of otherworldly design that is beyond expectations of any visitor. Apart from its extraordinary structure, the museum displays exhibitions from all that are considered historic, rare and artistic including archeological artifacts as well as limited car models.

The museum officially made its debut on March 28, 2019.

Nestled on the eastern coast between West Bay and the Pearl, the Katara Cultural Village boasts a variety of cafes, an open-air theater, outdoor markets and buildings designed in the traditional Qatari fashion. The theme of the village is ‘Beyond Boundaries’ and it is envisioned to offer a glimpse of the future.

Since opening in late 2010, Katara Cultural Village has been a hub for art and culture lovers in the city. This tourist attraction is very huge and one or two days might not be enough to cover them all so here are our honorable mentions that you could definitely check out in case you are time-constrained:

1. The Gold Mosque

2. The Amphitheatre

3. 21 High Street

4. Al Thuraya Planetarium

This tourist attraction has gained quite popularity in recent years and gradually become one of the must-visit places in Qatar. Film City — a few also call it ‘Cinema City’ — has a mysterious backstory and it is probably one of the reasons why people are drawn to this place.

It’s said by many people that this small town was once built as a set to film movies and TV series a while ago, however everything here was halted in the middle and all equipment was moved out. No one really knows what has happened and the true story behind this, but the Film City has not been explored by many yet and has an intriguing vibe, something that visitors chase after.

As a replica of an ancient Arabic village, this tourist attraction is also one of the offbeat destinations for tourists to escape from the crowd.

10. Qatar National Library: A paradise for book lovers

If you are a book lover, then you can’t miss one of the tourist attractions in Qatar — Qatar National Library. With a massive collection of rare documents and manuscripts, books and periodicals in many European and Asian languages, visitors could definitely wander in the sea of books.

Qatar National library is the latest expression of OMA’s long-term interest in the library, which goes back to the competition for the National Library of France in 1989.

The library is also part of the Education City, a new academic campus which hosts satellite campuses from leading universities and institutions from around the world.

Qatar 2022 will be the last World Cup for a series of star players, but most attention will go to Lionel Messi of Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. How will the long-time rivals do in their "last dance"?

😉 Read more:

FIFA Qatar World Cup 2022: 8 Stadiums and nearby recommended hotels

Trending Travelogues

Popular trip moments, popular travel types, popular attractions, popular ranked lists, popular destinations, recommended attractions at popular destinations.

Customer Support
Service Guarantee
More Service Info
Website Feedback

About Trip.com
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Statement
About Trip.com Group

Other Services

Investor Relations
Affiliate Program
List Your Property
Become a Supplier

You can change the currency anytime

Sporting Events
Cultural Events & Festivals
Wonders of Nature
Train & Rail
Paris Summer Games 2024
2026 World Cup
2024 Copa América
2025 Club World Cup
Milan & Cortina Winter Games 2026
Mongolia & China
Scandinavia
FIFA World Cup 2022

World Cup Qatar 2022

Last minute deals , world cup groups.

Group A : Qatar (hosts), 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, Korea Republic

Our reviews

Karen Stowell

Varya and her team made everything run smoothly. We had World Cup tickets already purchased but could not marry with accommodation. Varya came up with an itinerary included flights, transfers and hotels, supported by 24 hour help, which was tested on several occasions. We have no hesitation in recommending WofDi, and foresee using their services again. Thank you so much for so much

Great Britain

Wow ! Thank you WODFI Wow ! Wow! Wow! Varya and Mike - Thank you so so much for an unbelievable 6 days in Germany for the Euros. You helped us escape travel chaos and landed us some fabulous seats at the opening ceremony and Englands first match. The hotels were fabulous. Great breakfasts and positions. Constant updates from the WODFI team added to the smooth running of my Franks perfect 50th birthday present. A highlight was the welcome party in the oldest brewery in Munich. Loved it. Will most definitely contact you again, thank you so much . Anna and Andy ❤️

Jose Leonardo Ramos Mateos

Great experience in Qatar World Cup!!! Great service and support during our trip to Dubai and Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup!!! Helena for the first contact and reservations coordination was just perfect! Michael, Varya, Irena, Anastasia and all the support staff made a great Job and made us feel safe, happy and satisfied with the service and the tours we got. The full tour included welcome party, Desert dinner and show, tour in Dubai and a perfect logistics for travel between Dubai and Qatar. We had no problem with the FIFA hospitality tickets… Simply a perfect and unforgetable trip!!! We will for sure hire World of Discoveries services again soon!!

Sandy Zheng

Excellent service with friendly staff. Great organised and information detailed. We appreciate your service and help for this World Cup trip to Dubai and Qatar. We had a very awesome experience and a good time. We will continue to travel with you to the next World Cup. keep in touch. All the best to all of you.

Diana Kammunkun

Best Staff, Great Communication The communication and assistance from the Michael from the beginning, Alex during the pre-tour and post tour and Anna during the tour was better than exceptional; we were well taken care of. The staff truly cared about us having a memorable experience and their efforts greatly contributed to that happening. I’ll definitely be looking into their other tours.

Susan & James, USA

As avid sports enthusiasts, particularly in tennis, my husband and I have eagerly awaited the opportunity to venture out again after years of staying home due to the COVID situation. We decided it was time to break free and fulfill our dream of visiting France to witness the thrilling Roland Garros tournament. While we typically prefer organizing our own travels, we recognized that exploring a vast country like France warranted the expertise of a travel agency. Our aim was to take a tour that encompassed attending the male semifinal and final matches, as well as visiting Normandy's Landing Beaches, the renowned wine regions of Champagne and Bordeaux, and ending up with a few relaxing days at the beach. After some initial hesitation, we entrusted World of Discoveries (Wofdi) with our travel plans, and it turned out to be a remarkable decision. Wofdi meticulously designed a comprehensive itinerary that not only fulfilled our desires but surpassed our expectations. The knowledgeable guides who accompanied us throughout the journey, the seamless transport arrangements, and the exceptional attention to detail demonstrated by the Wofdi team left us in awe. Looking back on our trip as we now bask in the delightful sunshine of Nice, we can confidently say that every aspect was flawlessly planned and executed. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire team for making our European summer vacation truly unforgettable.

Terms and Conditions
Privacy Policy

Australia: +61 2 8310 7667

Canada: +1 888 644 87 34

New Zealand: +64 428 07 471

UK: +44 203 608 28 59

USA: +1 646 751 78 53

Spain: +34 96 502 08 62

Overseas Network
About OXPRO
Media Center
Travel Stories
Travel Pros

Log in to your account

Calling all true football fans let's go to the fifa world cup qatar 2022™ and make football history.

World Class Hospitality. First Class Access.

Start planning today for your trip to Qatar with our exclusive match ticket-inclusive Official Hospitality Packages and Travel Packages — and we’ll take care of the rest from takeoff to kickoff.

Select Your Match Ticket-Inclusive Official Hospitality Package

Make travel arrangements to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Overseas Network is an authorised Sub-agent of Premier Partnerships and Elevate Sports Ventures appointed as the Officially Appointed Sales Agents of MATCH Hospitality in the USA for the sale of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Official Hospitality Programme.

Ticket-Inclusive Hospitality

Exclusive access to verified ticket-inclusive packages featuring prime seats and matchday official hospitality

Enjoy your stay in Doha with a broad selection of hotel properties and the highest quality service

Experiences

Take your FIFA World Cup™ trip to the next level with priority access to unique curated experiences

Top notch security service agents for peace of mind and staff screening

Leave the planning to us for this one-in-a-lifetime trip and enjoy unparalleled access in Qatar

The Most Convenient FIFA World Cup™ Ever

For the first time ever, all venues are located within short driving distance of one another. The farthest distance between stadiums is 34 miles (55 km). It is possible to spend the entirety of your stay accommodated in one location — and attend several matches on consecutive days or even on the same day.

Enjoy The Best Of Qatar During Your FIFA World Cup™

28 years of experience.

France 1998

Korea/Japan 2002

Germany 2006

South Africa 2010

Brazil 2014

Russia 2018

What People Are Saying

"While I played in the English Premier League and represented my country at the FIFA World Cup™, they took amazing care of my family and made them feel home everywhere while traveling to attend my matches."

Sebastien Bassong

"I have attended several FIFA World Cup™ tournaments as well as other major sport events with this team. They are a first class organization who creates and delivers the unexpected."

"We have partnered together since 2010 to support our clients’ trips to the FIFA World Cup™ tournaments. It has been a flawless adventure we look forward to continue."

James Merrett

"For many years, we have relied on your organization to take our sales force and distributors on journeys of a lifetime. Your attention to detail is unmatched as well as the availability of your team members."

Richard Nestro

"From landing helicopters on a Motor Speedway to creating personalized events in original locations, we could always sit back and enjoy while your support team was in charge of everything. Safety is always prime on your agenda."

"What stands out the most is the extent of your network. It leaves us wondering "How did you ever pull this one?"."

Danny Marinovic

Let's get in touch for bespoke experiences, b2b travel needs, and other general inquiries, contact us below..

Book Travel
Credit Cards

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: How to Plan Your Trip on Points

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is taking place from November 21 to December 18, 2022.

This year, instead of the summertime football fever that fans around the world are accustomed to every four years, we’ll be experiencing a winter World Cup for the first time.

Now’s a great time to start planning your trip if you’re interested in visiting Qatar to experience the World Cup in-person – especially with Team Canada looking quite likely to qualify for the first time since 1986 (fingers crossed).

In this article, let’s go over some of the best strategies for travelling to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup, while using points to cover the major expenses and optimize your trip. We’ll update this article throughout 2022 as more information becomes available, too.

World Cup Match Tickets: Going On Sale Soon

Match tickets for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 have not yet gone on sale.

I’d expect the ticket application process to begin shortly, given that there are usually multiple rounds of ticket sales prior to the tournament, including both first-come first-serve and lottery-style processes.

Keep an eye on this page on the FIFA website for upcoming news on ticket sales.

Outside of individual match tickets, FIFA’s hospitality packages are already on sale. However, these packages start at US$950 per group match and are far more expensive than buying individual match tickets, so we won’t be focusing on them in this article.

As we await further developments on buying tickets, it’s worth noting that making travel plans around attending this year’s World Cup should prove much easier than past tournaments.

That’s because all the venues are easily accessible from Doha, the capital of Qatar. This is unlike past editions in Brazil and Russia, when travellers needed to plan out a series of domestic flights as well.

Booking Flights to Qatar

Most major airlines around the world open up their flight schedules about 11–12 months in advance of the travel date. Therefore, now’s a great time to start looking at booking flights to Qatar during the World Cup.

As you can imagine, round-trip airfare from North America to Doha during World Cup dates is currently fairly high. Multi-stop itineraries can be booked in the range of $1,500 (CAD), while more direct routings verge closer to $2,000+ (CAD).

However, if you’ve racked up some rewards points and are looking to make a memorable trip out of the World Cup, then your best bet is to book business class or First Class flights to travel to the tournament in style.

The nature of airline award availability during special tournaments is always a mysterious beast. If you see award space that you like, it’s best to lock in a booking before it goes away or gets booked up by someone else.

Let’s go over some of the best premium flight options to Doha and surrounding areas that currently have award space during the tournament dates.

With Aeroplan points , you can take advantage of ample availability on Etihad Airways’s Toronto–Abu Dhabi route on the Etihad 787 Business Studio . Adding on a short-haul flight to Doha, the whole thing would cost you 85,000 Aeroplan points per direction.

You could even travel in Etihad Airways 787 First Class on the Washington–Abu Dhabi route for 120,000 Aeroplan points.

There’s also plenty of award space on EgyptAir via Cairo, although on a significantly less attractive business class product.

Air Canada does operate a direct Toronto–Doha flight, although business class pricing is dynamically high during the tournament dates, and eUpgrade space is also zeroed out for the time being (which is understandable, since Air Canada is presumably very confident of selling these seats for cash).

From any other Canadian origin city besides Toronto, you’ll most likely need to connect via Toronto or a US gateway city in order to book a partner flight to the Middle East at a reasonable points price.

There are a few options outside of Aeroplan points to consider, although they’re more limited. That’s because Qatar Airways, known for their Qsuites business class and a natural choice of airline en route to the World Cup, appears to have zeroed-out their long-haul business class award availability during the World Cup period (starting at about November 10–15).

Qatar Airways may choose to release Qsuites awards in the future, but I wouldn’t count on it as a certainty. If you’d like to fly Qsuites en route to Doha for the World Cup, your best option is to book something else as a backup, and then change your plans to Qsuites if it becomes available.

You might be able to find the occasional Royal Jordanian flight from North America to Amman, from which it’s only another 1.5-hour hop over to Doha. The flight from the East Coast to Amman would cost 92,750 Avios in business class.

From other US gateway cities, Seattle might be a good choice for West Coast residents looking to make the long trip over for 155,000 Emirates Skywards miles.

There doesn’t appear to be much award space on the short-haul Dubai–Doha route, so you may need to make your way by car to Abu Dhabi and then fly over on Etihad (more on this below).

Whether you’re looking to fly in economy, business, or First Class, there’s plenty of options at this early stage to book flights to Qatar at a good value during the World Cup.

If you’re interested in attending, I’d recommend locking in a flight option that you’d be happy with well in advance, and then optimizing the journey in the months leading up to the tournament.

Booking Accommodations in Qatar

While booking flights on points for the World Cup is looking very feasible, it’s a different story when it comes to hotels and places to stay.

Qatar has a fairly limited hotel capacity that will be stretched to its maximum to accommodate the millions of spectators from around the world during the winter of 2022.

To facilitate the hotel booking process, the Qatari government will be using a dedicated portal for visitors to book accommodations, which will include the usual hotels and apartments, plus dedicated “fan villages” and cruise ships docked in Doha’s waters for visitors to stay in.

Hotels and guesthouses are not permitted to take bookings directly. There are a grand total of four properties charging exorbitant prices on Airbnb, which are presumably being listed in contravention of Qatar’s regulations.

The state-run accommodations agency has not yet opened up, although visitors can register their interest on the FIFA website .

You’ll have the option to indicate your preferred accommodation type, as well as your preferred star rating level between three and five stars. I’m very curious what the five-star fan villages are going to be like…

This unique system for managing Doha accommodations also means that it’s extremely unlikely that we’ll be able to use our hotel rewards points to book hotels in Doha during the World Cup.

(Indeed, some eagle-eyed Marriott Bonvoy members had been able to redeem points at the Four Points by Sheraton Doha when some award space was briefly available. However, the hotel has since reached out to inform guests that the reservation will not be honoured as per the State of Qatar’s local regulations.)

I’d expect that we’ll find out more details about booking accommodations through the state portal very shortly. In terms of pricing, the hotel stay add-ons to the FIFA hospitality packages give us some idea of what type of nightly rates to expect…

Given the limited supply and huge demand, I’d certainly expect the accommodations to make up most of the budget for World Cup attendees. Consider using fixed-value points like Scotia Scene+ points to cover some of these expenses.

Alternatively, there’s one more possibility for enjoying a few weeks in the Middle East without paying Doha’s sky-high hotel rates…

Worth Considering: Base Yourself Elsewhere in the Middle East

Given the high costs of remaining in Qatar for a portion of the World Cup, let alone the entire tournament, it might be a good idea to plan a longer trip around the Gulf region and hop in and out of Qatar for only a few days to attend matches and/or soak in the atmosphere.

Regional flights are understandably overpriced during the tournament dates, but that’s where the power of rewards points is clear to see.

There’s plenty of award space on Etihad’s daily Abu Dhabi–Doha service for only 7,500 Aeroplan points in economy class…

…as well as Royal Jordanian’s Amman–Doha flight for 9,000 Avios in economy or 16,500 Avios in business class.

With Etihad’s schedule of six daily flights between the two cities, you could conceivably base yourself in Abu Dhabi (where plenty of hotels can be booked on points for a good value) for the duration of your World Cup trip and make short trips to Doha to attend matches or FIFA Fan Fests.

Or, perhaps you could plan a two- or three-night stay in Doha to stop by the World Cup as part of a larger Middle East trip to see more of the region’s highlights, like Amman , Petra , and Wadi Rum in Jordan, the decadence of Dubai , or the stunning landscapes of Oman or Saudi Arabia.

Whether you’re an ardent football fan or someone who simply wants to experience the atmosphere of the world’s biggest sporting event as a bucket list item, now’s the time to start planning a trip to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022 if you’re interested in attending.

There are many ways to book a memorable flight in business class or First Class en route to the Middle East, whether you’re using Aeroplan points , British Airways Avios , or any other rewards currency.

Meanwhile, booking a place to stay in Qatar will be be a trickier proposition. All accommodations are to be booked through a dedicated state-run portal, which makes it all-but impossible to redeem points at a good value.

Consider using fixed-value points to cover some of the accommodation costs, or base yourself elsewhere in the Middle East as a creative way to save money while seeing more of the region.

It won’t be long until we find out more details about buying match tickets and booking accommodations for the World Cup, and we’ll be updating this guide throughout 2022 as we build up to the big event in Qatar.

Earn 80,000 MR points upon spending $15,000 in the first three months
Plus, earn 40,000 MR points upon making a purchase in months 14–17 as a cardholder
And, earn 1.25x MR points on all purchases
Also, receive a $200 annual travel credit
Transfer MR points to Aeroplan and other frequent flyer programs for premium flights
Unlimited airport lounge access for you and one guest at Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, Centurion, and other lounges
Credits and rebates for business expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
Bonus MR points for referring family and friends
Qualify for the card as a sole proprietor
Annual fee: $799

Prices have only gotten more absurd! Direct flights from Toronto to Doha with Air Canada range around $3400+ (as of May 2022). And indirect flights with other airlines are not much better (averaging around $2500 CDN).

Looks like they’ve removed all of the Aeroplan reward flights from Abu Dhabi to Doha during the World Cup dates 🙁

Is the tickets sale over ? Are they going to sell more?

Anyone interested in buying Argentina vs Mexico tickets?

Yes, also have tix to trade

I’ve been saving Bonvoy points specifically for this. This is heartbreaking 💔

Step 1 – Hope that Qatar removes Canada from its red list of countries requiring hotel quarantine by then.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Prince of Travel is Canada’s leading resource for using frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and loyalty programs to travel the world at a fraction of the price.

Join our Sunday newsletter below to get weekly updates delivered straight to your inbox.

Have a question? Just ask.

Business Platinum Card from American Express

120,000 MR points

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

85,000 Aeroplan points

American Express Platinum Card

100,000 MR points

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

Up to 75,000 Aeroplan points†

Latest News

Which Credit Cards Have No Foreign Transaction Fees?

Guides Jul 3, 2024

Aeroplan Elite Status: Choosing Your Select Benefits

Aeroplan Launches 40th Anniversary Contest and Promotions

Deals Jul 3, 2024

Recent Discussion

Andrew kruse, how much are points worth (quarter 3 2024), the essential guide to aeroplan, the essential guide to scene+, status match to flying blue silver, gold, or platinum, mobile passport control: expedite your entry into the united states, prince of travel elites.

Points Consulting

Car Rentals
Airport Transfers
Attractions & Tours
Flight + Hotel
Destinations
Trip.com Rewards

FIFA Qatar World Cup 2022: Top 10 tourist attractions you can’t miss in Qatar

When and where is the FIFA Qatar World Cup 2022?

😉Read more:

Show More 