We are a few days away from the starting whistle of 2022 World Football Championship what is going on in Qatar. More precisely, for the first time in the history of the prestigious competition, the matches will take place in winter, between November 20 and December 18, 2022.
The organizing committee of the 2022 World Championship has announced the rules set by Qatar in the competition for accredited persons and for supporters. These refer to the attitude adopted towards Muslims and to clothing.
Rules to follow in Qatar
These rules are divided into several very important chapters covering food, alcoholic beverages, drugs, clothing and more.
COVID-19 rules
Those wishing to travel to Qatar to watch matches from the stands must present a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result. The rule applies to everyone who wants to enter Qatar, regardless of whether they have been vaccinated or not. The test must be taken no later than 48 hours before traveling to Qatar. All children under the age of six are exempt from this rule. Rapid tests are also accepted, which can be done up to 24 hours before entering Qatar.
Health insurance
All those who will travel to Qatar will have to pay a fee of 13 dollars for health insurance. The health insurance premium will cover basic services, including emergency and accident treatment services.
Hayya card
Those wishing to travel to Qatar after November 1 will need to apply for a Hayya card. It is a personalized document for those attending FIFA World Cup 2022 matches. This card provides free access to public transport in Qatar, including the metro and bus.
Alcohol consumption
Qatar has decided to further relax the rules regarding alcohol consumption. Those over the age of 21 can legally consume alcoholic beverages with a license. Fans will be able to purchase drinks from licensed bars and restaurants. Beer will be available to fans after 18:30pm in dedicated areas. There are also special tickets that include champagne, wine, liquor and beer.
CAREFUL! Alcohol consumption outside dedicated areas and in public is still prohibited!
Transporting alcoholic products, drugs, pork products and objects related to pornography into Qatar is strictly prohibited and punishable according to the laws of the state.
clothing
All those who will travel to Qatar are advised to dress modestly, with their hips covered, and the remark is especially aimed at ladies and young ladies. Shorts, tank tops or tank tops are not recommended. Failure to follow these rules can result in blocked access to certain buildings and even stinging fines of thousands of dollars.
Smoking
Although smoking is legal in Qatar, it is prohibited in all public spaces, including museums, sports clubs, shopping centers and restaurants. The sale and use of e-cigarettes has been banned in Qatar since 2014. Violators can face fines of up to $2750 and up to 3 months in prison.
The issued regulation also refers to some aspects related to the way to eat or drink in Qatar. Thus a bottle or a cup of tea must be grasped with the right hand. Muslims believe that the left hand should only be used for hygiene. It is also considered rude to cross your legs while talking to someone.
The Qatari authorities have also mentioned some rules regarding photos and videos. When photographing, you must ask permission before photographing/filming members of the public. Fans should also be aware that photography of government buildings is not permitted.