Qatar 2022 Fan leader Information Session - 100 Days To Go
On August 16, the Qatar Fan Leader Network held a workshop covering various fan activities being planned for Qatar 2022. Below are notes from the conference and answers to questions posed by the US Supporter’s Going to Qatar Facebook Group related to the workshop topics. In addition, I’ve attempted to answer the additional questions from the Facebook Group not specifically related to the workshop’s agenda items.
GENERAL COMMENTS
· This particle Fan Leader workshop covered the topics listed below. Of note, the workshop did not provide details on FAN ZONES (areas near stadiums) – that information is “still flowing in.”
· Alcohol (International Beverages) sales were a topic of many fan questions. For this workshop, the summary is as follows: No sales on the Corniche, one site for sales within the FIFA Fan Fest, sales at “some” of the entertainment venues, and sales at FAN ZONES outside the stadium were not discussed.
· The map below shows the location of the Corniche Activation(shaded in green) and FIFA Fan Fest.
CORNICHE ACTIVATION
· 6 km stretch of open park space along the bay with entertainment and food options
· Open 24 hours/day beginning November 20,
· Entertainment and food currently planned from 10 AM to midnight
· No ticketing
· Shuttle buses will be available from various sites. Metro is also an option to reach the Corniche.
· No Match Viewing sites
· No Alcohol
FIFA FAN FESTIVAL
· The only FIFA-sponsored site in Qatar
· 40K (expandable to 60K) capacity
· Entry first-come, first-served until capacity is met
· Hospitality/VIP section is ticketed
· Likely, only Hayya card will be needed for access (still TBD)
· Current plan is to be open 10 AM to 2 AM
· Near Corniche Metro Station (see map above)
· Match viewing and five entertainment stages will be available
· Children’s activities available
· Alcohol restricted is to a single point of sale and the consumption area is limited, as well
CULTURAL ACTIVATION
· Various activities and venues throughout Qatar (some with alcohol sales).
· Some activities are ticketed and are expected to sell out quickly. Ticket information is pending.
· Activities are/will be listed on VisitQatar.qa click here
ONE PASS
· Passes provides access to museums, exhibits, films, food/beverage offers, etc. click here
QUESTIONS FOR THE FACEBOOK GROUP ADDRESSED IN THE WORKSHOP
Will there be Fan Fest activities outside the stadium that include alcoholic beverages?
- See FIFA FAN FEST information above. Information on stadium FAN ZONES is still pending.
QUESTIONS FROM THE FACEBOOK GROUP NOT RELATED TO THE AGENDA
Given the current lack of mid-range accommodation availability, what can we expect going forward?
- Same official line…accommodations are being added with time.
What are the Covid entry restrictions/requirement?
- Stay tuned…this is the official FIFA line, “To ensure a safe experience and to safeguard the health of everyone attending the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, FIFA is working closely with the local authorities to set up rules and health and sanitary protocols. Attendees must follow the travel advice from the State of Qatar and the guidance from the Ministry of Public Health. Additional information on coronavirus safety measures to access the FIFA World Cup stadiums will be available on FIFA.com. Please note that you should be informed about your country’s action protocols in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and all measures to be followed, both for entering Qatar and for returning to your country.”
When do they anticipate allowing ticket transfers?
- “During first come first served sales periods it is not possible to cancel or change a ticket application.” This phase ends August 16, so shortly after you should again be able to change names on ticket applications.
When will Hayya allow for match day shuttle override for the accommodation requirement?
- Hayya ID applications for those using Match Day Shuttles can be submitted now.
Do we need to convert currency, or can you pay via credit card/Google Pay for taxis, restaurants, etc.?
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but small shops and food stalls may only take cash.
Will there be a list of preferred tour operators?
- No official list from Qatar 2022, but here are some sites that might be helpful…
Visit Qatar: click here
My website page: click here
Will there be laundry service in the Fan Villages and Barwa complex? Laundry on cruise ships?
- (Answer courtesy of Roberto Hernandez) “I emailed this question to the Qatar Accommodation team. They said fan villages will have laundry, but Barwa will not.”
- (Additional information from Qatar2022 official FAQs) “Apartments and villas: Include a washing machine, a drying rack, an iron, and an ironing board. Hotels and cruise ship hotels: laundry services will be available at additional charges. Please contact us if you require any clarification on what a specific property includes.”
Will flags/banners be allowed to be hung?
- Not allowed: “Flags and banners that exceed 2x1.5 metre in size.” Anticipate that if hanging the flag/banner will obstruct official signage, then it will not be allowed.
Will fans be allowed to the team’s training facilities? Will pictures with players be allowed?
- Here is the US Soccer statement on VIP Packages. “Though we recognize it may not be for everyone. The U.S. Soccer Patrons Program to Qatar is the Federation’s most exclusive travel program, including accommodations, MATCH tickets, behind-the-scenes access, ground transportation, U.S. Soccer gear, and more. Space is very limited, and participation is made possible through a meaningful donation supporting the U.S. Soccer Development Fund. Contact vip@ussoccer.org for details…FIFA also provides its own travel programs through its official hospitality partner, MATCH Hospitality – see their options (including tickets and accommodations) here: usa.match-hospitality.com/startplanning”
What is appropriate attire for women at games and events?
- Here is the most thorough and practical article on the subject that I have seen: click here
Will Jenny Wixson spend our life savings shopping in Dubai?
- Yes
Will they allow fans to wear eagle costumes in the stadium?
- Only those with a Platinum Hayya card.