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Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022: What you need to know before going
Are you in Thailand and planning to visit Qatar for the Fifa World Cup? The biggest tournament in the world will kick off on November 20th, 2022, and will last over a month. It is the first World Cup held in the Middle East, so you will have to learn the dos and don’ts there. Here’s what you need to know before going from Pacific Prime Thailand.
Beginning your journey to the Fifa World Cup 2022
Before we look at the things you should do and don’t do as a football fan visiting Qatar, you’ll need to know how to get your tickets, where to find accommodation and the steps to securing your Hayya Card.
Your tickets
First off, you should head to the Qatar Fifa World Cup’s official website to purchase your ticket. The Last Minute Sales Phase is open and will remain so until the end of the Fifa World Cup on December 18th, 2022.
Since tickets are limited and subject to availability, you are encouraged to purchase them as soon as possible for the best price. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and processed in a real-time transaction.
Note: The current ticket demand is high, and a queuing system is in place, so be prepared for long waiting times.
Your accommodation
With your tickets purchased and in hand, it’s time to look at accommodation. Frequent travelers from Thailand will typically head to popular booking platforms like booking.com and Agoda to look for accommodation. However, if you want to go for the full World Cup experience, then you can try the associated apartments and villas, cruise ship hotels, fan villages, and hotels that cater to visitors heading for the tournament. Discover the types of accommodation here.
Your Hayya Card
Having sorted out your accommodation and knowing you have access to the games, the next step is to apply for a Hayya Card. This card will allow you to enter the State of Qatar and the participating stadiums. You’ll also be able to travel for free on public transport. These benefits, as well as many others, are only available if you have a Hayya Card.
You will need to select the link above and sign in. But if you haven’t registered yet, you’ll have to enter your email address and create a password. Once in, follow the steps to getting your Hayya Card.
The dos and don’ts for visitors entering Qatar for the World Cup 2022
The tournament is a time of festivities as cultures and nationalities cross paths, and people from all walks of life experience diversity in all its glory. But with all games of the past, it’s important to respect the rules and cultural differences of the host nation and know how to behave so that everyone has an amazing time. Here are the dos and don’ts for fans heading to the Qatar Fifa World Cup tournament:
Dos
- Learn about Qatar’s traditions, culture, and religion. In case you weren’t aware, Islam is the main religion in Qatar, and 90% of citizens are Shi’a Muslims and 10% Sunni Muslims. The country is also multi-national, with expats and loved ones living and working there. Most of them are Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims.
- Dress appropriately to respect Qatar’s culture and religion. Men and women are generally recommended to ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. Football fans should avoid removing tops during games as it will be deemed inappropriate. You are encouraged to wear modest and conservative clothing. Learn more here.
- Check the weather forecast to ensure you are not taken by surprise by sudden changes in the weather. However, in Qatar, the temperature is normally around 24 degrees Celsius in November. Highs are around 30 degrees Celsius.
- Drive on the right side of the road in Qatar. You must also have an international driving permit to rent a car and drive legally in Qatar.
- Check the full itinerary or match schedule of the Fifa World Cup 2022 so you know when and where all the matches will be.
Don’ts
- Do not litter in public places, and look for waste bins or zones for disposing of rubbish.
- Do not make fun of or disrespect the locals and greet them accordingly. Note: Locals are the best source of support, especially those who are residents. Try to learn a bit of Arabic to help you get the most out of your trip!
- Do not consume alcohol outside of the designated places. Football fans will have zones allowing for the consumption of alcohol. Ask staff if you are unsure and check for any signs or notices prohibiting the consumption of alcohol on site.
- Do not smoke in all public spaces, including museums, sports clubs, shopping malls, and restaurants. You could be subject to fines.
- Do not take photos or videos of people without their permission.
A brief word about medical care and health insurance in Qatar
Football fans and visitors to Qatar can access healthcare at any of the country’s private or public hospitals, medical centers, clinics, and pharmacies. However, you are highly encouraged to take out short-term health insurance (travel insurance) or international health insurance to provide full health coverage for your time at the tournament.
Note: It is mandatory to have health insurance coverage as a visitor to Qatar. Thus, before traveling to the World Cup, you should check for a suitable insurance plan or reach out to an insurance brokerage like Pacific Prime Thailand. Here’s an overview of the Qatar healthcare system and how to find the best health insurance for expats and travelers.
Get in touch with Pacific Prime Thailand
Complete your checklist by ensuring you have your mandatory health insurance policy. With over 20 years of experience, our insurance experts are ready to speak to you about health insurance for your trip to Qatar and compare a range of suitable plans to ensure you have the right coverage.
Contact us for impartial advice and an obligation-free quote today!
His expert view and wealth of knowledge on insurance can also be found in his blogs for China, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
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