Meriam Jelliti
Doha
One of the main tourist destinations now among football fans here is the old Doha Port, which has been attracting hundreds of visitors daily since the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 kicked off. Fans from across the world were spotted visiting the port for either a day visit or to simply gather around the huge screen installed in the open area to watch the matches. For some, it is a routine itinerary on their way back to the floating hotels where they are currently staying.
Visitors to the port enjoy the World Cup atmosphere, and fans flocking to the site express their admiration and joy to be able to support their teams while having the opportunity to explore Qatar’s rich history and tradition.
"This exceptional World Cup is definitely a one of a kind first because it is obviously held in an Arab country, and what makes me happy is that this tournament broke the taboo of the Middle East region, I mean look at this place, it’s gorgeous. Qatar has been definitely an unforgettable experience and I’m enjoying every bit of it,” said Alexander Noup, a fan from Switzerland who is visiting Qatar with his best friend to experience the World Cup.
The colourful port opened its doors to the masses since the start of the tournament, and what goes well with the colourful buildings are the diverse jerseys representing different teams of the World Cup.
"I visited this wonderful area yesterday night but I had to pay it another visit during the afternoon to get a better view of the colourful port, this place is full of life and and green spaces, modern roads and open spaces. I’m also planning to come again with a bike to make sure I see it all.” added Noup.
From a distance, cruise ships rest on the opposite shore docked at the port near luxury yachts that are stunning in size, also here for the World Cup. These cruise ships are the floating hotels currently accommodating thousands of World Cup visitors in Doha.
One of these visitors was Julio Fabiano from Brazil, who was spotted taking pictures of the view. He said he is staying at one of the floating hotels during the tournament, and enjoys a morning walk everyday before he leaves to discover the rest of the city.
The old Doha port project includes cafes, shops, restaurants, a fish market, housing, sites for artists, and an open air park. The buildings in the Al Mina area appear in bright and distinctive colours, as if you were in one of the Italian villages of Florence or the Greek cities.
The port was constructed based on international standards, which consolidates Qatar’s tourism position, and contributes to the expected growth in the number of cruises during this current busy period.
The asphalt layer on the street leading to the marina was replaced with granite to match the general character of the port, and to enhance safety for pedestrians and visitors, in addition to having a spacious and organised park.
The old port of Doha also provides free means of transportation, whether by buses or electric golf cars, for the convenience of visitors.
"I think the name "Old Port of Doha” needs to be reviewed, because what I found here is modernity and a brand new Port, for example, "Port of Doha City,” or "Doha Port Village,” instead of addressing the name of the word "the old ". But still I’m very grateful for this experience and Doha Port is definitely one of my favourites so far, and thanks to everyone who sponsored and implemented this project, which added impressive tourism value to Qatar,” said Fabiano.