The highly anticipated global event, FIFA World Cup 2022 is finally nearing launch after years of preparation. Qatar is going to host the latest iteration of the event. First time in history, an Arab country is hosting the football World Cup. The tournament will run from 21 November to 18 December 2022.
Qatar had eight stadiums ready to host the quadrennial international football tournament. They additionally renovated the majority of them over the course of three to four years. The country even built a brand-new temporary stadium, especially for the event. Seven of the eight host stadiums have cutting-edge cooling technology to keep fans and players cool and comfortable.
A Quick Look at the Full List of Stadiums for FIFA World Cup 2022
Khalifa International Stadium
Inauguration: May 2017
Location: Al Rayyan, Doha
Capacity: 40,000
Khalifa International Stadium was the first one to complete renovation. Built in 1976, the stadium previously went through two more renovations. The multi-purpose stadium is situated in Al Rayyan, Doha. It has a 40,000-seat capacity. For the World Cup, a roof was additionally installed in the stadium to shelter the upper seating areas. Moreover, Khalifa International Stadium is the national stadium of Qatar.
Lusail Iconic Stadium
Inauguration: 22 November 2021
Location: Lusail, Qatar
Capacity: 80,000
Lusail Iconic Stadium is currently the largest of all 8 host stadiums. It has a whopping 80,000-seat capacity. The stadium is in Lusail, about 23 km north of Doha. What’s more, the venue will host the final match of the FIFA World Cup 2022. The design of the stadium is based on Qatar’s culture and arts. In addition, the stadium contains a special solar-powered thermal cooler to keep the stadium temperature under 27 degrees Celsius. It will also have zero carbon footprint.
Stadium 974
Inauguration: November 2021
Location: Ras Abu Aboud, Qatar
Capacity: 40,000
Stadium 974 is the most special among the eight host stadiums. It is the first fully demountable stadium in history. It is also the first temporary stadium in FIFA World Cup history. The stadium is near the gulf sea of Ras Abu Aboud in Qatar. Built with 974 recycled shipping containers, it has a very modular and modern design. Previously it was named Ras Abu About Stadium. However, during the inauguration ceremony, the committee changed the name to Stadium 974.
Al Bayt Stadium
Inauguration: November 2021
Location: Al Khor, Qatar
Capacity: 60,000
Al Bayt Stadium will host both the opening ceremony and the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2022. It is the second biggest of eight host stadiums. The stadium has a 60,000-seat capacity. It is in Al Khor, 35 km away from central Doha. The stadium features a retractable roof, especially for temperature control. Its design was heavily inspired by the nomadic lifestyle and culture of Arabs.
Ahmad bin Ali Stadium
Inauguration: December 2020
Location: Umm Al Afaei, Al Rayyan, Qatar
Capacity: 50,000
Ahmad bin Ali Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium. Labeled as “Gateway to the Desert” the stadium is home to Al-Rayyan Sports Club and Al-Kharitiyath Sports Club. Following renovation for World Cup, the stadium has a total 50,000-seat capacity. The stadium now has a big “media facade” that will be used for news, commercial, match information, and scorecard projections.
Al Thumama Stadium
Inauguration: October 2021
Location: Al Thumama, Qatar
Capacity: 40,000
Al Thumama Stadium is in the city of Al Thumama, 12 km south of Doha. The stadium has a unique design. Its design inspiration comes from the Ghafiya, a traditional headpiece commonly worn by Muslims. The stadium has a special recycling system which saves 40% more fresh water compared to conventional stadiums. The stadium has a 40,000-seat capacity at present. It previously hosted six FIFA Arab Cup 2021 matches after its inauguration.
Al Janoub Stadium
Inauguration: May 2019
Location: Al Wakrah, Qatar
Capacity: 40,000
The Al Janoub Stadium was formerly known as Al-Wakrah Stadium. It is in Al Wakrah, Qatar. The stadium has a 40,000-seat capacity. Zaha Hadid Architects collaborated with AECOM to design and construct the stadium back in 2013. The stadium features a futuristic design in addition to postmodern aesthetics. Dhow boats particularly inspired its structural design. Following World Cup’s completion, the stadium will host Qatar Stars League.
Education City Stadium
Inauguration: June 2020
Location: Education City, Al Rayyan, Qatar
Capacity: 40,000
Education City Stadium is dubbed the world’s most environmentally sustainable stadium. As a result, it received a 5-star rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). The stadium is surrounded by various sports facilities and organizations. Furthermore, its pitch is below sea level to keep the stadium temperature cooler. There are triangular designs on the stadium’s façade. They change color as the sun moves across the sky throughout the day. The venue was inaugurated with a virtual event in June 2020.
Conclusion
Qatar is leaving no stones unturned for the upcoming world-class event. The country spent around $220 billion to prepare for the upcoming event. Fans are also excited to see what the middle eastern country has to offer.
