Tribune News Network
Doha
More than 60,000 fans gathered at the fan zone in Al Bidda Park to watch the opening match of the FIFA World Cup match between Qatar andEcuador. The FIFA Fan Festival was officially opened at Al Bidda Park on the eve of the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world.
The FIFA Fan Festival will be open throughout the tournament. It will show every FIFA World Cup match live on giant screens, host world-famous artists and feature a range of food and beverage options. More information and the full programme are available on FIFA+.
Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, said: "The FIFA Fan Festival represents everything that is unique, memorable and special about Qatar’s FIFA World Cup. Every day during the tournament, thousands of fans from across the globe will gather here to meet and enjoy top-class football – all in a stunning setting which features the beautiful Doha Corniche as the backdrop.”
Speaking during the event, FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, said: "This place will be the heart of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. We are proud that you are here. The world is united in Doha for this World Cup and this is thanks to you. This is where you will celebrate every night between now and the 18th of December.”
The FIFA Fan Festival will featurecColor:>
Live broadcasts of every match on giant screens, with views of Doha’s futuristic skyline in the background
Concerts starring top global and local music artistes and live works by internationally acclaimed performance artistes
A food court offering unique culinary experiences featuring local cuisine and international delicacies
Football matches featuring FIFA Legends and interactive physical and digital football gaming stations for fans of all ages
A Fans Cup featuring all 32 qualified nations for Qatar 2022
Innovative sponsor activations, as well as an official FIFA Store with licensed FIFA World Cup products
To access the FIFA Fan Festival, fans must show their Hayya Card, a mandatory requirement for FIFA World Cup ticket holders. The Hayya Card provides access to stadiums – with a valid match ticket – and the FIFA Fan Festival, as well as free public transport during the tournament. For international fans, the Hayya Card also acts as an entry permit to Qatar during the tournament.
FIFA Fan Festival opening times:
November 20: 4 PM to 2 AM
November 21-29: 11 AM to 2 AM
November 30 to December 18: 4 PM to 2 AM
Transport
Al Bidda Park is close to three Doha Metro stations:
West Bay Qatar Energy (Red Line)
Al Bidda (Red & Green Lines)
Corniche (Red Line) – exit from Corniche only, the station is closed for entrance
Dedicated shuttle buses will transport fans between the FIFA Fan Festival and stadiums.
Taxi and ride-hail drop off/pick-up locations are available.
Fans can also walk to Al Bidda Park from the Corniche.