HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, stated that the preparations for hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 are progressing at an accelerated pace.

HE explained that despite the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic across the world, Qatar has succeeded in quickly ensuring the delivery of the required materials in coordination with the companies working on the World Cup projects.

Moreover, HE stressed that the country is ready to host the tournament in all respects, such as the completion of work related to the construction and equipment of stadiums and infrastructure related to the World Cup projects.

While most of the stadiums are ready to host football matches, works for the Lusail Stadium, Al Thumama Stadium, and Ras Abu Aboud Stadium are currently ongoing.

HE stated that 90 percent of the works related to the Lusail stadium is complete and is the stadium that will host the final match of the FIFA World Cup on December 18, 2022. 

HE explained that the 2021 Arab Cup taking place in December will highlight the capabilities of the State of Qatar in hosting major tournaments a year before the start of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, in addition to reflecting the efficiency and readiness of the infrastructure and World Cup facilities in the country. 

Speaking on the infrastructure for the 2022 World Cup, he said that plans related to the transportation network and other services such as accommodation and health care facilities are proceeding smoothly.

The Prime Minister pointed out that Qatar would not allow fans to enter stadiums without receiving full doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

As a result, Qatar is currently negotiating with a company to provide one million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to vaccinate fans who have yet to be vaccinated prior to the FIFA World Cup.

“Our primary goal in vaccinating some of the people coming to Qatar to attend the 2022 World Cup is to protect the public health of citizens and residents, as well as to protect the fans participating in the tournament,” he underlined.