DOHA, Qatar – Before entering Qatar, football fans should be aware of these rules. Less than 50 days remain until the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which is expected to draw more than a million soccer fans from all around the world. 

On November 20, the FIFA tournament begins; this will be the first time a Middle Eastern nation has hosted the event. Fans from the area and throughout the world are preparing for the month-long sporting excitement.

Here are the rules international football fans can expect at the FIFA World Cup 2022 – Qatar.

COVID19 Protocols

To enter Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022, visitors must have a COVID-19 test result that is negative. No matter if they have received a vaccine, the rule still holds true. 

Fans must have a negative PCR test result that was obtained no more than 48 hours before their flight to Qatar if they are six years of age or older. 

It is also possible to enter with documentation of a negative fast antigen test, but this test must be completed 24 hours before travel. Face masks are also required in Qatar when using the public transportation system.

Social Rules and Ethics

If you are over 21, it is acceptable to consume alcohol in Qatar. The government has also recently announced the relaxation of some of their restrictions on the purchase of licensed beverages for the duration of the World Cup, with beer being made available to fans after 6.30 p.m. Fans can anticipate being able to purchase alcohol in “licensed bars or restaurants.”

Before and after games, as well as during the evenings exclusively at the official “Fan Festival,” which is taking place in a park in the heart of Doha, fans can congregate in fan zones and in the eight stadium compounds before and after matches – but not at concourse concession stands.

Since February 2021, game tickets that promised access to champagnes, wine, liquor, and beer for hospitality clients in Qatari stadiums have been sold as part of corporate packages that offer “luxury beverages.” However, it is still illegal to drink in public.

Clothing Regulations

Fans have been urged to wear “modest” clothing with covered shoulders. According to the Qatar Tourism Authority, shorts and sleeveless tops are not advised, and access to some official facilities may be refused if they are discovered to fall short of modesty standards.

Smoking Rules

While it is allowed to smoke cigarettes in Qatar, it is not permitted in any public areas, including museums, sports facilities, malls, or dining establishments. Fines may be imposed on offenders. 

Since 2014, Qatar has outlawed the importation, sale, and use of e-cigarettes. Violators face up to three months in jail and a fine of roughly $2,750. (QAR 10,000).  

At Doha’s al-Bayt Arena, the greatest football event begins with a game between Qatar and Ecuador. To date, more than 2 million FIFA World Cup tickets have been sold.

Health Insurances

The Official Gazette of Qatar reports that the cost of a health insurance premium for visitors to Qatar will now be roughly $13 (QR50). If the visa is extended, the price will remain the same. Basic services, such as emergency and accident care services, are included in the health insurance cost.

Hayya Cards

After November 1st, anyone intending to enter the nation must submit an application for a Hayya card. Everyone attending the FIFA World Cup matches is supposedly required to have this individualized document. Additionally, it will grant free access to buses and the metro in Qatar.