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What To Know About Qatar Before the Men’s World Cup

Qatar is the host country for the 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup. In November and December, soccer fans worldwide will visit this beach-lined country on the Persian Gulf.

The Men’s World Cup takes place every four years. Thirty-two nations compete for the top spot with continental qualifications leading up to the finals. However, this is the last time 32 teams will compete — beginning in 2026, 48 teams will participate in the tournaments scheduled to take place in North America.

A World Cup of Firsts

The 2022 Men’s World Cup is filled with firsts. Qatar has intense summer heat, so this World Cup will be the first to take place in months other than May, June or July. The timeframe has been reduced to 28 days. The competition is also the first to take place in the Arab nation.

Qatar is home to nearly three million people. Their culture is renowned for hospitality, so guests visiting for the World Cup can get ready for a trip rich in generosity, world-class food and beautiful accommodations during their excursion.

Qatari Cuisine

When fans and USANA Athletes are not training or attending games, they can experience all the culture Qatar has to offer, starting with the food. Serving Arabic coffee, sweets and dates is a traditional way of hospitality in Qatar. Coffee is freshly ground and seasoned with cardamom and other spices. It is served in a specially shaped pot called a dallah in tiny cups with no handles.

Visitors to Qatar may consider tasting some traditional main dishes during their stay. Kabsa is a blend of meat, vegetables and spices. A comfort-food dish to try is madrouba, a porridge made with rice, chicken and a flavorful blend of cumin, turmeric, cardamom, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, garlic and black pepper.

After a satisfying meal, guests may enjoy feeding their sweet tooth with dessert. Some to sample include balaleet, noodles cooked in sugar, saffron, cinnamon and cardamom. Balaleet is often served with an omelette on top. Um ali, bread and rice pudding, is another delectable choice.

A Unique Stadium

Most of the Men’s World Cup games will take place in and around Doha, Qatar’s capital city. The hosting country has constructed several new stadiums to accommodate the games. One stadium of note is Stadium 974. It is the first fully demountable venue in FIFA World Cup history. It is constructed primarily from recycled steel and shipping containers — 974, to be exact. During the World Cup, it will host seven matches. Those who are interested in learning more about the stadium’s sustainability can read the environmental impact report on Stadium 974.

Places To Visit

Soccer fans who want to explore Qatar can find plenty of opportunities to do so. If a beach getaway is on the list, there are abundant places to visit. Purple Island, filled with lush greenery, is one such place. Visitors can camp on the island, bird watch or kayak through the mangroves. The weather is at its best from November through February, making it an ideal spot to visit during the World Cup.

Guests shouldn’t miss the chance to learn about Qatari culture while attending the World Cup. Msheireb Downtown is in the heart of Doha’s cultural district. Patrons can dine al fresco while shopping. The architecture is modern but inspired by Qatari legacy. Four historic heritage houses comprise the Msheireb Museums.

Planning Your Trip

If you plan to fly to the World Cup, Qatar is an average of 6-7 hours away from major international hubs. You may be able to find a direct flight. Once you arrive, you can take advantage of public transportation by bus service, taxi or automated rail network.

Winter in Qatar brings ideal weather. Temperatures are moderate and most days are sunny. It’s the perfect weather to see everything Qatar has to offer and, of course, enjoy plenty of soccer.

If you plan to attend the Men’s World Cup in Qatar in 2022, you are in for a treat. Not only will you enjoy the best games that soccer has to offer, you can enjoy the hospitality of a country rich in heritage and culture.

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