Road to 2022 Gallery

What a view… The iconic Kuwait Towers in Kuwait City were just one location for the stunning launch of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ emblem. Local fans were grinning from ear to ear when they saw it revealed on their doorstep.

Old meets new as the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco provides a spectacular backdrop for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ emblem unveiling. Morocco’s national team have some FIFA World Cup™ pedigree, so their fans will be hoping they book a place at Qatar 2022.

Seoul, South Korea gets in on the emblem unveiling act. Fans in Doha, London, Paris, New York, Buenos Aires and more global cities got their first glimpse of the emblem on 3 September 2019. Well, it is a FIFA World Cup™ after all!

Loud and proud: the Ministry of Interior building in Doha, Qatar displays the emblem. Local lad Ibrahim M. Jaidah is behind the design of the building – as well as that of Al Thumama Stadium. So he’s certainly doing his bit for Qatar 2022.

Wow! Al Zubarah Fort in northern Qatar was an incredible stage for the emblem unveiling. One of Qatar’s most popular spots on the tourist trail, Al Zubarah used to be big on pearl fishing, which involved brave divers going as deep as 40m beneath the waves.

What a sight. A full house at Khalifa International Stadium, the first completed Qatar 2022 stadium. The space around the pitch means that this old favourite can host premier athletics events, such as the IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2019.

Almost there: Al Rayyan Stadium is close to completion. And what a stadium it’ll be when it’s finished. Just imagine making your way to this beauty, knowing you’re going to see some of the best footie players in the world do their stuff.

Ever seen a stadium like this? Inspired by a Middle Eastern cap, Al Thumama Stadium is one of a kind, and it’s coming soon to a FIFA World Cup™ near you. Arriving fans will see it as they fly into Qatar – what a welcome.

Say hello to Education City Stadium. In 2022, 40,000 fans will stream through its gates, ready for the greatest show in world football. Its ultramodern curves mean fans will be up close and personal to the action – and their songs will resonate around the grounds.

That’s one big three… Qatar 2022 employees marking the three years to go milestone. Germans, Tunisians, Filipinos, Aussies, Indians, Russians, Brazilians and more: these folks come from all over, making the tournament truly international.

FIFA World Cup™ winner Xavi clearly has some story-telling skills. The Al Sadd manager and forner Barcelona captain is now one of our ambassadors and works closely with football for development programmes, putting smiles on faces around the world.

This guy is a legend for a different kind of football: Tom Brady has won the lot in American football. He’s also committed to helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, work that brought him on a special trip to Qatar.

Lionesses on tour. The England women's national football team warmed up for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019™ with an eight-day training camp at Aspire Academy. And they must have done something right because they made the semis in France.

We’re proud of our green fingers. This is the Tree Nursery, where thousands of our green friends get the best daycare around. After being nurtured here, they make the move to our stadiums, where they play a part in making our venues look their best.

We’re all about getting young people more involved in sport and it’s easy to get them excited about it when the next FIFA World Cup™ is happening right on their doorstep. We hope to see this little guy cheering on the Maroons in 2022.

When learning really is fun. Football for development programmes are a great way of getting kids (and adults) to learn about all kinds of things: inclusivity, healthy living, gender equality and more. We find they listen better with a ball at their feet.

Just look at the concentration on that face! Football for development programmes bring a wide range of people together, from all walks of life. They pick up communication and leadership skills and, as you can see here, dribbling skills.

First-class grass: this turf is being prepared for a starring role in the world’s biggest sporting competition. We go to incredible lengths to make sure the Qatar 2022 playing surfaces let the world’s best players do their thing.

Surveying the scene, a Qatar 2022 construction worker dons personal protective clothing. This hi-vis hero is one of more than 20,000 workers – from every corner of the world – helping to deliver a top-class tournament.

On another level: a construction worker during the creation of Al Janoub Stadium. Its elegant shape makes it one of the world’s most eye-catching stadiums. The venue, in the southern city of Al Wakrah, took five years to complete.

Camels don’t hide around every corner in Qatar, but you might see the occasional one if you visit in 2022. There’s camel racing and, of course, you can hitch ride on one as you take in the wild beauty of the desert.

Football training with a view. Aspire Academy turns promising young athletes into global superstars, thanks to brilliant facilities and coaching. Just ask FC Barcelona defender Moussa Wagué and world high-jump champ Mutaz Barshim, who both graduated from here.

Qatar will have its moment in the spotlight in 2022, but football’s been big here for a long time. It kicked off in the 1940s, with the amateur game growing over the next decade. Now players from around the world wow the crowds here.

Floodlit fun on one of Qatar’s many high-quality pitches for amateur teams. The facilities here are top notch – not just for the pros, but also for those of us who are more enthusiastic no-hopers than finely tuned athletes.

A kid races towards goal in a training session, no doubt imagining he’s Messi, Ronaldo or Salah. Qatar 2022 will convince thousands local kids to pick up a football – and possibly become the next big thing.

Not everyone wants to be a striker and here’s that rarest of things: an aspiring footballer who wants to play in goal. This one is decked out in the Maroons kit, so you never know, we could be looking at a late contender for Qatar’s goalie in 2022!

It must be hard to concentrate on training when there’s a beautiful FIFA World Cup™ stadium right behind you. These eight magnificent stadiums – and the football played in them – will inspire countless people to get involved in sport.

Ahhh the sweet sound of a boot striking the ball. Amateur leagues up and down Qatar give people the chance to play competitive football. Win, lose or draw, we’re all hopelessly addicted to the beautiful game.

Not just for picnics, Qatar has plenty of lush green parks and they’re a favourite spot for a friendly game of football. So talent scouts should pay them a visit at the weekends: they might just discover the next Mo Salah using jumpers for goalposts.

Here’s a pitch with a view. The Corniche is the heartbeat of Doha city life, with throngs of people jogging, soaking up the vistas with a coffee and even playing football. You just have to be careful that your ball doesn’t go for a swim.

For these kids, football is a serious business. Folk in Qatar have a deep passion for the game – and our FIFA World Cup™ will take it up another notch. From cafés in souqs to big screens in shopping centres, people will be going absolutely crazy come 2022.

Al Janoub Stadium from above. Visit Qatar in 2022 and you're in for a treat: our stadiums are among the world's most spectacular venues. They'll be the perfect stage for unforgettable action on the pitch – and will provide a lasting legacy.

Ever seen a stadium inside a huge tent? Nope, didn’t think so. Al Bayt Stadium is certainly unique. Its design comes from the bayt al sha’ar tents used by nomads, a nod to Qatar’s traditions and a feast for the eyes of fans from around the world.

Colourful just doesn’t do it justice. This is the vibrant sadu pattern brightening up the underside of the stadium’s roof. Traditionally, each tribe would have a different pattern that they could be identified by.

Takes your breath away, doesn’t it? Al Bayt Stadium is surrounded by one of the biggest parks in Qatar, complete with lakes, playgrounds and even camel trails. It’s sure to be one of the defining images of Qatar 2022 – and all over Instagram.

This grass gets the VIP treatment, because it’s where 22 players will open the Middle East’s first FIFA World Cup™. The 60,000 seats display a sadu pattern – traditionally used on nomads’ tents to identify tribes – adding a pinch more local culture.

Is this a Bedouin tent? Or an executive box in a football stadium? Well, it’s a football stadium, obviously, but you get the point. The hospitality areas at Al Bayt Stadium continue the Arabian Nights theme, making everyone feel nice and cosy.

Six hours and 41 minutes. Incredibly, that’s all it took to lay the picture-perfect turf here. It’s tailor-made for Qatar and players will certainly appreciate its quality. They might also appreciate the retractable roof in the unlikely event of rain.

It might look tiny from way up high, but Al Bayt Stadium will host 60,000 fans, making it one of Asia’s biggest football stadiums. And after Qatar 2022 is over, almost 28,000 seats will be donated to sporting projects abroad – nice.

Not bad, eh? Billowing up like the sails of the dhow boats that inspired its design, it’s as graceful as it is unique. You just know that players will be itching to play here at Qatar 2022, no matter where they’ve played before.

How do you get a stadium roof to flow like that? Maybe it’s magic – but it's probably first-class design and engineering. Either way, it transports you to the waves and seafaring traditions of Al Wakrah, the city this stadium graces.

The waves also reach inside the stadium, splashing the seats with colour and turning the roof into a boat’s hull. The pitch has already witnessed some great action, including an Amir Cup final and an Arabian Gulf Cup encounter between Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

A sea of white in the stands as Qataris (clad in traditional white robes) turn out in force for Al Janoub Stadium’s big debut: the 2019 Amir Cup final. They were treated to a goal fest as Al Duhail beat Al-Sadd 4-1 to bag their second Amir Cup in a row.

Ooooh! Ahhhh! Fireworks lit up the night as Al Janoub Stadium took a bow. Music, dancing and a spectacular ceremony welcomed this new venue onto the football stage. And there were fireworks on the pitch as Al Duhail won the Amir Cup 4-1.

Al Janoub Stadium sailed into the FIFA World Cup™ history books when it became the second Qatar 2022 venue to be completed. A 40,000-strong crowd can say "I was there". And many more will be hoping to be there in 2022.

We love a good retractable roof. Not so much for the rain (we don’t get much), but more to shade the pitches we’ve lovingly crafted. That’s what the grow lights are about: they nurture the turf into the ideal playing surface.

The birds get the best views, don’t they? Here’s a shot of Al Rayyan Stadium even the players won’t see. Those semi-circular buildings you can see on each side of the stadium represent sand dunes; the city of Al Rayyan is known as the gateway to the desert.

Made of Qatar. Look closely and you’ll realise that this beautiful façade includes shapes representing Qatari culture: the importance of family, the desert, Qatar’s flora and fauna, local and international trade, and a shield (symbolising unity and strength).

Nice shot! Dusk falls over Al Rayyan Stadium. Once it’s all done and dusted, the stadium will light up at night, welcoming fans in to take a seat for some top-quality football. Al Rayyan SC will move in after 2022, ensuring football continues to live here.

It’s always been a crowd-pleaser. First unveiled in April 2015, the ambitious design of this stadium impressed and surprised people. And it’s still creating excitement to this day, especially as Qatar 2022 gets closer.

Recycling never looked so good. Incredibly, when Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium was taken apart on this site, over 80% of its materials were reused or recycled and now form part of the new stadium complex. Some even became public art installations.

There’s room for 40,000 excited fans inside this stunning stadium. After 2022, around 20,000 seats will be donated to sporting projects abroad and Al Rayyan SC will inherit a smaller stadium, where their rowdy fans can create a real roar.

The unique façade of this stadium really is a masterpiece. And here you can see the artists at work. Assembling such an intricate (and heavy) feature is no easy task. Luckily, the talented bunch creating our stadiums are some of the best in the business.

Almost hypnotic: this spectacular snapshot of Al Thumama Stadium’s construction reveals the beauty of its roof. Its distinctive design was inspired by a woven cap worn throughout the region – now you can’t say that about many stadiums, can you?

Are you ready for your closeup? Here, you can see the fine craftsmanship of the roof. The stadium’s design is the brainchild of Qatari architect Ibrahim M. Jaidah. Local experts, companies and communities have been integral to each venue.

It’s like a giant’s cap! If you ever see somebody wearing a gahfiya, you’ll appreciate just how similar Al Thumama Stadium is to the real thing – all thanks to the staggering detail. Of course, you can’t fit 40,000 ecstatic fans into the average gahfiya.

Now there aren’t many circular stadiums around the world, so fans travelling to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ will see a real collector’s item. It’ll host games right through to the quarter-final stage, writing itself into football history in the process.

A crane looms over Al Thumama Stadium. Getting the roof on involved carefully lifting a 727-tonne cable net system into place, requiring nerves as steely as the materials themselves. Behind the scenes, the work that goes into each stadium is immense.

Somewhere down there, the centre circle will soon be placed. Then Al Thumama Stadium will be ready for the big kick-off. Some of the world’s best teams will do battle here, competing for the historic honour of winning the first FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East.

Just look at that: Education City Stadium is a sight for sore eyes. This distinctive, ultramodern venue will host fixtures right up to the Qatar 2022 quarter-final stage, welcoming football’s superstars, 40,000 fans and the eyes of the entire world.

The façade features triangles that form complex, diamond-esque geometrical patterns, appearing to change colour with the sun's movement across the sky. By night, the façade puts on a colourful light show, making it even more enthralling.



 

As they arrive, fans will see many green spaces and state-of-the-art amenities surrounding the venue, all built with an eye on sustainability and the future. Facilities include football training pitches, a golf course and shops.

After it has hosted FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ matches, the arena's capacity will be reduced by half and 20,000 seats will be donated to build stadiums in developing countries, helping cultivate a passion for the game around the globe.

 

What happens inside the stadium has a knock-on effect outside, whether it's sport, job opportunities or cultural activities, all future generations will benefit from Education City Stadium's lasting legacy – in Qatar and much further afield.

Grow lights can be found in stadiums all over the world. They help to grow, strengthen and maintain the grass. Distributing the light evenly and at the optimum time ensures pitch surfaces are in perfect condition for the matches.

The best seats in the house? The hospitality areas at this stadium offer complete comfort and perfect views of the action. The stadium facilities are so good that, after 2022, several sport for development organisations will set up here.

Twinkle, twinkle… The stadium’s triangular patterns – borrowed from traditional Islamic architecture – look particularly stunning by night. It’s just one more way that the Qatar 2022 stadiums will share regional culture with visitors from around the globe.

The fabulous Khalifa International Stadium: a 40,000-seat arena, adored by many as the home of football in Qatar. Built in 1976 and transformed for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, fans can make new memories in this iconic venue.
 

The whole stadium has a beautiful new façade to complement the wide canopy and a tier that has added 12,000 seats. While LED pitch lighting and digital floodlights bring a whole new dimension to the fan experience.

Over time, new buildings have occupied the landscape around Khalifa International Stadium, transforming it into the Aspire Zone centre of sporting excellence. The distinctive skyscraper is the Torch Doha hotel, built for the 2006 Asian Games

The view from the stands is just incredible. Of course, hosting local and regional tournaments gives fans ample opportunity to soak up the atmosphere – but just wait and see what it feels like during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

To prepare for its FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ matches, Khalifa International Stadium hosted Arabian Gulf Cup and FIFA Club World Cup™ matches, as well as the IAAF World Athletics Championships. Now it’s ready for the best FIFA World Cup™ ever!

Construction progresses at Lusail Stadium: the centrepiece of Lusail City, a state-of-the-art metropolis. We know the 80,000-capacity arena will host the FIFA World Cup™ final in 2022, but which team will be crowned the winners?
 

As Lusail Stadium takes shape, construction companies involved in Qatar 2022 projects continue sustainable building practices and recycling of construction waste. Construction processes are also stringently monitored to minimise pollution and contamination.

 

Just take a look at that craftsmanship. By night, visitors will experience an advanced lighting system that enhances the latticed stadium façade, mimicking the welcoming glow of a Middle Eastern fanar lantern for approaching fans.

Blazing a trail. Beginning with environmentally friendly building practices and energy conservation, and ending with its donation of seating and integration into the neighbourhood, this venue will become a model of sustainable stadium development.

Construction at Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, situated in the port area and looking across to Doha's dazzling West Bay skyline. Fans are sure to enjoy a cool breeze here, in the group and last 16 stages of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

 

Shipping containers have been repurposed for any number of things recently: living and office space, off-site restaurant kitchens, swimming pools, but never for something as grand and exciting as a football stadium. Until now.

These shipping containers will be used in the construction of Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, along with removable seats and modular "building blocks". After the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the venue will be entirely dismantled and repurposed.

 

The venue's temporary nature and modular design will mean that fewer building materials will be required than in traditional stadium building, giving future global stadium developers and tournament planners a fine example to follow.


 

The National Museum of Qatar’s striking design was inspired by the desert rose. Conceived by French architect Jean Nouvel, it is dedicated to narrating the unique story of Qatar, its culture, traditions and its people.

There are no roads leading to Richard Serra’s monumental public artwork in the desert; no maps or signs will guide you there. But you can type N25o 31.019’E050o51.948’ into your GPS. Then get ready to be amazed by East-west/ West-east.

Al Shaqab equestrian centre takes its name from the battle for Qatari independence, when Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani’s cavalry secured victory over the Ottomans on horseback. Al Shaqab's Arabian purebreeds are their legacy.

Life’s a beach: wherever you go along Qatar’s 560 km of coastline, you’ll discover something wonderful. Whether you’re visiting the ancient fishing and pearl diving communities or lazing under the palm trees at a modern hotel.

The beautiful Qatar State Mosque at night. It's one of the largest mosques in the country; the grand building features many domes and was built with a captivating mix of traditional modern and Middle Eastern architecture.

Education City Mosque’s striking design is influenced by Mangera Yvar’s philosophy of architecture as landscape. It certainly has an incredible presence; its two minarets stretch 90m up into the sky and point towards Mecca.

Sampling the wonder of the Qatari desert is an experience like no other. Escape the city and find tranquility in the high dunes, settle down, wait for the sun to set – and then the stars are all yours. It’s that easy.

The Museum of Islamic Art houses masterpieces from many societies. Obtained from the private collections of royalty, as well as the houses of ordinary people, these exhibits are secular and spiritual in content, but all connected by Islam.

Katara Cultural Village is the place to be if you want to immerse yourself in traditions, theatre, art and architecture. There’s an opera house, libraries, an amphitheatre, art galleries, cafés and some of the most incredible restaurants.

Escaping to a desert camp and riding through the dunes can make for a wonderful bonding experience. Camel racing is also a popular sport and Shahaniya, just outside of Doha, is home to Qatar’s main camel racing track.

You don’t have to be a pro to kayak through the AI Thakira mangroves. Gently paddle through a lush ecosystem that attracts incredible birdlife, including flamingos and herons. The only extreme thing is the beauty.

 

The dazzling skyline of West Bay can be enjoyed from many locations, all of them will leave you in awe of this thriving metropolis. You'll find some of the tallest and most unique skyscrapers in the world right here.

The sight of one of Lusail City's Marina Bridges illuminated at night is absolutely incredible. These two suspension bridges have huge circular structures that serve as pylons – the first of their kind in the world.

Doha Metro stations are designed to reflect Qatar's cultural icons. These vast open spaces look like Bedouin tents with beautiful light features. You don’t need a reason to travel to enjoy the metro, just the inclination to be astounded.

A stunning view from above the Pearl-Qatar apartment buildings. This island consists of 4 million m2 of reclaimed land and 32km of pristine coastline. Here, 50,000 residents get to enjoy a living experience like no other.

The beauty of Doha is breathtaking. Qatar has built some of the most unique skyscrapers in the world: the Mondrian sits majestically upside one of the quirky Zig Zag Towers. In the distance, you can see a jungle of equally amazing buildings.

A Doha Metro train sweeps up a steep bridge incline and over the cars below. Doha’s rapid transit network is one of the fastest driverless metro systems in the world, providing efficient and reliable transport for all.

Every major bridge you see in Qatar is so much more than utilitarian structure. Of course, they enable us to traverse quickly and safely over obstacles, but they’re also dramatic works of art and wonders of modern architecture.

This young fan was happy to attend the Amir Cup final 2019 and the opening of AI Janoub Stadium, the first new Qatar 2022 stadium. After pre-match entertainment celebrating AI Wakrah’s maritime past, Al Duhail won, overcoming Al Sadd 4-1.

Brazilian legend Cafu passes his expertise on to youngsters in Qatar. This football initiative uses the power of sport to positively impact lives and create sustainable social development in communities all over the world.

Children from Qatar brought their skills along to the opening of AI Janoub Stadium, as part of the pre-match entertainment programme. Who knows, maybe one day some of these talents may play in an Amir Cup final of their own?

This is what you call the perfect assist: Cafu helps a young lad score a tremendous goal. As an Ambassador for Qatar 2022, the Brazilian is more than happy to lend a helping hand or foot – and always in the right place at the right time.

Qatar is an innovator in harnessing the shared passion for football to teach life skills, promote equality, build confidence and nurture cooperation and team spirit. It’s all about personal development through the beautiful game.

The workers are the real heroes of Qatar 2022 – their skills have helped bring the most incredible stadiums to life, and they continue to do so. The outstanding legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ will also be their legacy.

Recreational facilities are plentiful as supporting health and vitality is at the forefront of Qatar's support for workers. It is hoped that the value of healthier living in Qatar will have a positive effect on workers' lives when they return home.

It’s not all football for construction workers, many play cricket with the same passion, especially those from India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. So Qatar has made sure they’re bowled over with the facilities on offer.

Accommodation for Qatar 2022 construction workers is subject to the highest of standards, ensuring clean and healthy living spaces as well as recreational facilities.
All sites are regularly inspected and assessed by teams of experts.

There’s nothing like star power to excite workers. Qatar 2022 Ambassador and Barcelona legend Samuel Eto'o does exactly that whenever he’s focusing on social responsibility projects. Samuel’s dedication and passion is always an absolute winner.

Nakheel Landscapes put in a lush performance, exterminating Doha Pest Control’s efforts in the 2018 Workers' Cup Final at AI Duhail Stadium. The competition, launched in 2013, sees workers' teams compete, cheered on by their co-workers.

This chap gets some help for his first camel experience; no doubt there will be more in the years ahead. After all, safaris are popular in Qatar – there’s plenty of desert and more camels than you can count on all your fingers and toes.

This guy keeps a watchful eye on his falcon, as these birds can be unruly when distressed. Leather falcon hoods are often worn during training to help them acclimatise to human contact and keep calm. It’s best not to ruffle their feathers.

Most dedicated football fans tend to be colourful characters. Although this chap seems a little unsure, loving your national team means never having to say you’re sorry for wearing a lampshade. And yes, mate, we like it!

Accessibility for all is a major consideration for Qatar 2022. There are special forums and groups consulting people with disabilities – aspiring to make the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ the most accessible tournament yet.

It’s important for the next generations to understand the vast undertaking and commitment that Qatar is making for the tournament. There are regular talks about Qatar 2022 preparations and our future vision to students at universities.

In the same way that the FIFA World Cup™ brings the world together, Qatar’s community events regularly celebrate different cultural traditions. Here, members of Qatar’s Asian community showcase and perform in traditional dress.

A team of health and safety officials arrive on a Qatar 2022 construction site for an unannounced inspection. The group comprises industry experts who apply their skills and know-how to uphold high standards and measure their impact.

Demonstrating high-visibility and cooling technology workwear to workers: construction workers on Qatar 2022 projects are provided with the most innovative and effective personal protective equipment and clothing available.

An innovative working session brings together workers' welfare officals, sub-contractors and workers to discuss issues and make further recommendations for the health, safety and wellbeing of workers on Qatar 2022 projects.

A Qatari student reflects upon her notes shortly after an educational lecture on Qatar 2022 and event management. It will be up to the dedication of her and other students to ensure the immense progress in Qatar continues.

Executive learning ensures all employees’ skills and competencies are able to meet current and future challenges. Courses and methods focus on personal development, as well as business innovations, to increase success.

Students attend an expert-led sports event management course. These sessions support the development skills needed to ensure the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ sets a new standard of host country excellence for the tournament and beyond.

A tutor passes on his knowledge of current trends in the sports industry. In-depth research generates insights that can be acted upon to improve management performance, bringing new understanding to the regional sports and events industries.

Students at a creative workshop in Doha post the ideas born during the session. Innovation in sports and events management is the key to success – and realising that responsibilities extend far beyond the pitch or event itself.

Qatar leads the way in providing world-class education, training and research for sports and events management. The objective is clear: maximise skills for an incredible FIFA World Cup 2022™ and the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Speakers from leading faculties and sports and events management experts are regularly involved in educational activities in Doha. Students here benefit from the most innovative thinking and advanced learning techniques.

Qatar was invited to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ to show football fans what was to come during Qatar 2022. Moscow and St Petersberg were chosen to stage events that connected the cultures and communities of both countries.

A digital portal connects Doha directly to Moscow, offering the public and fans insights into landmarks and cultures. Portals allowed interaction via live broadcasts and gave a real-time view of life and football in the respective cities.

Two Qataris saddled up to watch a film broadcast on one of the digtal portals that connected Qatar with Russia. It appears that the horses were just as interested as the riders – maybe the film was The Horse Whisperer?

One of the digital portals linking Russia to central Doha was situated close to the much-loved Al Fanar Islamic Cultural Center, allowing visitors to enjoy two beautifully illuminated experiences at the same time.

As you'd expect, the centre of Moscow was absolutely teeming with football fans from all over the world during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™, making it exactly the right time and place to introduce the world to Qatar.

Qatar Elements exhibition was located on the Moskva River, creating the world’s first floating multimedia museum. Visitors experienced a show where Qatar’s 2022 plans were projected onto the walls, appearing to float down into the river.

There are light shows – and then there are light shows! The Qatar Elements event brought something spectacular to the Russia capital. Visitors and Moscovites were thriled and amazed with the immersive multimedia show.

The Moskva River in glorious summertime was the perfect stage for the Qatar Elements exhibition. In winter, the temperature drops well below zero and a fleet of ice-breaker cruisers are needed to make river navigation possible.

The Qatar Elements exhibition took place on the banks of the beautiful Moskva River, a tributary of the Oka River around 473km long. From here it flows into the Volga River and from there all the way to the Caspian Sea.

The story of the road to 2022 was told through interactive information stands, allowing casual shoppers and exhibition visitors to connect with welcoming staff who were on hand to provide further insight into the incredible journey.

Visitors came up close to some of the most prized football memorabillia ever collected. Items included match-worn shirts from legends such as Pele, Maradona and Xavi Hernández, mascots and official balls from previous tournaments.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup™ fan zone in Hamad International Airport was an unforgetable experience for international travellers. You could certainly forgive people for hoping their flight might be delayed by, say, 90 minutes!

Three creative artists team up to paint an oryx statue, a symbol of Qatar, in Moscow. You only have to take a look at their outfits to know that the oryx is about to be pimped out with a uniquely customised paint job.

This oryx was part of the Majlis, the flagship Qatari installation in Russia. Majlis Qatar resembled the bayt al sha’ar, a traditional tent that also inspired the design of the stunning Al Bayt Stadium, chosen to welcome the world in 2022.

Falconry is a passion for many in Qatar; the relationship with these birds dates back centuries. Bedouins tradionally used them to hunt birds in the desert. The Majlis Qatar offered the perfect showcase for this aspect of desert culture.

The best way to introduce the world to Qatari music is to bring the singers to them. Traditional Qatari music is based on sea folk poetry. Each song narrates an aspect of a the pearling trip – unfurling the sails, rowing and diving.

These men are beating large AI Ras drums that are traditionally used in folk dances, one of which is the named the Ardah. Head into Doha on Friday afternoons and you can often watch the dances up close and personal.

Fans could choose from a number of fan zones set up all over Doha during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™. With the excitement at fever pitch, communities watched giant screens and participated in a range of football-related activities.

As France and Croatia contested the crown, this Qatari clearly sided with the Croats. It was their first final, whereas for France, it was their third. Fans saw the highest scoring 90-minute final since 1956 with France's 4-2 win.

This young lady clearly found the perfect place to express her passion for the beautiful game. It's not always about the winning, so why not wave a flag for no team in particular but for the Qatar fan zone itself? Hooray!

Vive la France! This young lad chose the right team for the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ final, played out in the Luzhniki Stadium (formally known as the Grand Arena of the Central Lenin Stadium) and enjoyed at all Qatar fan zones.

The Qatar Elements exhibition took place on the banks of the beautiful Moskva River, a tributary of the Oka River around 473km long. From here it flows into the Volga River and from there all the way to the Caspian Sea.

Qatar’s @roadto2022 exhibition at the Copa América introduced visitors to its journey as host for the FIFA World Cup 2022™. Fans could explore the rich traditions and culture of Qatar, as well as the designs and progress of stadiums.

There really was something for everyone at the São Paulo exhibition. The many interactive football games that featured throughout the space were probably top of the list for this aspiring FIFA World Cup™ goalscorer.

Brazilian hero and SC Ambassador Cafu views the memorabilia section and takes a trip through football history, marking some unforgettable moments. Exhibits included match-worn shirts, footballs, tickets, mascots and more.

Peru fans were in great spirits as they made their way to their team’s Copa América final v Brazil in 2019, which marked the 46th edition of the Copa América. On this occasion, Brazil walked away with their ninth title, defeating Peru 3-1.

The chance to see a model of Lusail Stadium up close was a treat for these young footie fans. In 2022, this 80,000-seater will stage the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ final, with billions around the globe watching on just as excitedly.

Brazilian fans signal their intention to journey to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022™. It goes without saying, they’ll be welcomed with open arms for the experience of a lifetime. After all, there's no welcome quite like a Qatari welcome.

Bahrainis love to sing while they're winning. Here they are celebrating their first Arabian Gulf Cup triumph. Having finally secured the winning spot and much-coveted silverware, the team just couldn’t resist breaking out in song.

Youngsters line up with their Qatari and Iraqi heroes during their match at the 24th Arabian Gulf Cup. They’ve certainly got some big shoes to fill before their dreams of football stardom come to life. Hopefully, they’ll grow into them.

An Iraqi fan stands tall, proudly waving his country’s flag and cheering on the team. All football stadiums in Qatar have been designed to be inclusive, supporting easy access and with special facilities for people with disabilities.

Qatar hit Yemen for 6-0 at Khalifa International Stadium. Abdelkarim scored himself a fantastic hat-trick and Almoez Ali and Abdullah Al Ahrak both grabbed one each. Finally, Akram Afif got on the scoresheet. That’s a goal rush!

It’s a family thing: football has been a national passion in Qatar and throughout the region for many years. The Arabian Gulf Cup has played a major role in building this and touching the lives of many generations of men, women and children.

All is calm in the FIFA Club World Cup™ Fan Zone: very soon the supporters and fun seekers will arrive and then it's game on for an action-packed evening of big screen football and high-energy musical entertainment.

The Espérance Sportive de Tunis fans brought their passion for singing along with their love for the beautiful game. They were loud and proud but also fearlessly friendly. Sing with a Tunisian and you have a friend for life.

Is this young lady cheering on the wing? Well, it certainly looks like this CF Monterrey supporter believes her team can fly as she catches an early evening breeze inside the FIFA Club World Cup™ Fan Zone.

This Flamengo supporter's getting all red-faced, but really he has nothing to be embarrassed about – just take a look at those guns! He’s all fired-up for a fabulous night of football at its finest inside the Fan Zone.

The Fan Zone foodie area starts to fill up quite early with hungry supporters looking for tasty treats. Turn up and tuck in: get a "pizza" the action while you can, there’s a whole evening of à la carte fun coming up.

Riding the wave of a great year, Mexico's CF Monterrey took on Saudi stars Al Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup™. A rollercoaster night went all the way to penalties, with CF Monterrey eventually celebrating third place in the tournament.

Hienghène Sport made AI Sadd SC work extra hard for their first-round win in the FIFA Club World Cup™. The part-timers put up anything but an amateur performance, forcing the game beyond 90 minutes but eventually going down 3-1.

Liverpool FC landed their first-ever FIFA Club World Cup™ win and became the second English side to win the tournament. Jurgen Klopp's team took their time to side-step Flamengo, a nifty 99th minute move by Roberto Firmino stole the show.

Flamengo fans’ hopes to lead Liverpool FC in a merry dance slipped up with Roberto Firmino’s stoppage time goal. However, Khalifa International Stadium’s incredible ambience ensured their date with destiny was a night to remember.