Arab Cup delivers QAR2.89bn boost to Qatar economy

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 generated QAR2.89bn in economic value for Qatar, according to the Local Organising Committee for Football Events (LOC) and an assessment conducted with Nielsen Sport.

Held from December 1 to 18, 2025, the tournament boosted tourism and revenues across the travel, hospitality, retail, and transport sectors.

The competition attracted 305,015 international fans, who spent QAR288.9m on flights and QAR315.5m on accommodation, generating 1.5m room-night bookings. Additionally, 97% of overseas attendees said the tournament had a positive impact on Qatar.

LOC CEO Jassim Al Jassim said major sporting events continue to support economic growth and diversification in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, while reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading sports and tourism destination.

During the tournament, QAR246.1m was generated from food and beverage sales, QAR200.7m from retail spending, and QAR84.2m from local transportation. The LOC also spent QAR793.6m on operations, promotion, and logistics, while utilising six FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums.

Media operations, including the Main Media Centre and Broadcasting Hub in Souq Waqif, generated QAR241m in media value, while social media engagement contributed QAR24.6m in economic impact.

The FIFA Arab Cup formed part of Qatar’s wider football calendar in 2025, alongside the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 and FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025.

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