Later this year, Qatar will make history by hosting the first World Cup to be held in winter, with the tournament kicking off on November 21.
Running through December 18, the competition has stirred controversy and intrigue in equal measure over its timing and venue as fans gear up for a celebration of international soccer from around the world. As for the format, 32 teams from eight groups fight for a place in the round of 16 before the final in Doha.
Some of the world's biggest heavyweights have already secured passage to Qatar, including Germany, Brazil, France and Argentina. Teams from Canada, the United States and Mexico will join them in the Middle East after surviving CONCACAF qualifying.
Below, Sporting News covers some of the most important things to know if you're planning to travel to Qatar this year.
FURTHER:Which teams qualified for the 2022 World Cup?
Travel requirements to enter Qatar
Any visitor who is not a citizen of Qatar "must present a negative PCR laboratory result before travel, obtained no later than 48 hours before the time of departure from the country of origin," according to the statement.Embassy of the United States in Qatar.
Fully vaccinated or recovered travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival or show a negative rapid antigen test. Unvaccinated and unimmunized visitors must quarantine for five days in a hotel or five days in "home quarantine" for those with relatives in the country (proof of residency and paternity required).
They must also have a rapid antigen test on the fifth day of their hotel/home quarantine before being allowed to move freely within the country.
There are currently travel restrictions in place in Qatar
The US Embassy in Qatar is currently recommending a Level 4 travel advisory, which states that citizens should not travel to the country due to the prevalence of high levels of COVID-19. Of course, with the World Cup drawing near, many fans around the world will want to make reservations to see the best players in the world take center stage.
Those interested in the trip should follow the updates of theUS Department of State – Bureau of Consular AffairsWebsite for more details before the start of the World Cup.
FURTHER:Qatar bets on qualifying for the Intercontinental World Cup
Qatar 2022 World Cup Travel Packages
World Cup travel packages run from the first week of the tournament to the final.
Qatar airlines, the country's official airline, offers a range of packages, which can be found below, including flights, accommodation and match tickets:
- support your team- Week One & Two (Four Game Pack) - Starting at $6,590
- starting groups- Week One (Three Game Pack) - Starting at $4,950
- later groups- Week Two (Three Game Pack) - Starting at $4,700
- To defeat- Round of 16 (two game pack) - Starting at $3,800
- To defeat- Quarterfinals (two-game package) - from $4,050
- To defeat- Semifinals and Finals (package of three games) - from $7,300
- To defeat- Final Game and Third Place Game (2-Game Pack) - Starting at $5,600
fifaalso offers various packages for the tournament; However, flights, accommodation and tickets must be purchased separately for the finals in Qatar.
USA Party HospitalityAlso a verified dealer, it's worth checking out for soccer fans embarking on an adventure in the Gulf region this winter.
Flights to and from Qatar: how much do they cost?
Four cities will host the 2022 World Cup games: Doha, Al Wakrah, Al Khor and Al Rayyan. Doha will be the main port of call for soccer fans heading to the tournament and Doha Hamad International Airport will be ready to welcome visitors from November when the competition kicks off.
As of 2021, four US cities: Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Washington D.C. – offer two daily flights from the US to Qatar, while increasing Dallas-Fort Worth to 12 weekly flights, with daily services to Boston, Miami, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle.
For example, a passenger departing Washington Dulles International Airport for Doha on November 16 and returning to the same airport (tournament duration) on December 19 would cost around US$2,100.
Granted, it's not cheap, but it's worth it to see your heroes in action on the big stage. Below is a list of some airlines for those looking for more information on exact costs for your location:
Hotels in Qatar
A number of different options are available to visitors during their stay, including fan villas, cruise ship hotels, standard hotels, and local apartments and villas to call home during your stay in Qatar. However, given the demand, availability can quickly disappear.
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has oneofficial accommodation agency, which contains important information and portals to explore options to stay in the country according to the budget range.
However, it might be worth looking beyond the standard hotels, as many of them already are.reserveddue to a massive influx of block buyers looking to secure their place in the World Cup much sooner than anticipated.
The officialFIFA World Cup website,Qatar airlines, zTrivago websitepossibly one of the best resources available for consumers to inquire about potential stays in Qatar to suit their needs.
FURTHER:Who are the oldest players in World Cup history?
Car rental in Qatar
However, car rental in Qatar varies from company to company.SIXTHoffers some promotions to make it easier for visitors.
They typically start at around $175 per day, but daily rates often drop based on length of rental. For example, at SIXT, picking up a vehicle for the first week of the tournament would cost around $132 per day.
For the tournament as a whole, expect to pay around $127 per day to get a rental car. However, this varies from retailer to retailer.
here are someother well-known car rental companiesin Qatar it is worth taking a look at the local rates:
- Europcar Qatar
- Car hire in Al Taif
- United Rent a Car Catar
- rental car oasis
- Auto Z car rental
- full rental car
- Al Saad Rent a Car Co Wll
Popular questions about travel to Qatar
Clothes: what should I wear?
Qatar is an Islamic country with a very traditional attitude towards life. Although there is no mandatory dress code in the country, modest and conservative dress is recommended. For men, this means that wearing shorts may be frowned upon, while women should particularly avoid wearing tank tops or miniskirts.
Sleeveless shirts are also not allowed, as are strapless or see-through clothing. Failure to abide by these rules could result in legal punishment, so it's probably best to be cautious if you plan on making it to the finals.
How will the weather be?
The weather will be warm, with November and December temperatures averaging 82 and 75 Fahrenheit respectively.
Prepare yourself adequately for possible weather fluctuations, which could lead to a sharp increase in temperature during these months. It's unlikely to rain during this period and hardly any country breezes will make you break a sweat, so don't forget your deodorant and sunscreen!
What side of the road do you drive on in Qatar?
Qatar, like the US and Canada, drives on the right hand side of the road, which will be a relief. Most cars are automatic, though keep in mind that driving in Qatar can take some getting used to due to its unique landscape.
Can I drink alcohol in Qatar?
Technically yes, but depending on your situation in Qatar it can be more complicated. Alcohol is not illegal in the country, although consumption in public is prohibited and intoxication is illegal.
You must be 21 years old and can currently buy alcohol, although whether these rules will apply during the World Cup has yet to be confirmed. Alcohol is in very short supply and can only be obtained from licensed dealers (mainly in Doha), licensed restaurants, and luxury hotels.
Alcohol is only available to hospitality package holders at the stadiums during the World Cup. A pint of beer costs around US$13 in Qatar, as the country taxes alcohol as it is not a cultural norm.
What is the emergency number in Qatar?
The emergency number in Qatar is 999 for those who need to contact the emergency services.
What currency do they use in Qatar?
Qatar uses the Qatari rial as its currency. 1 USD would equal 3.64 Qatari riyals at the current exchange rate.