Qatar is ready to unveil another FIFA World Cup 2022 stadium next month, maintaining its fast-paced infrastructure development for the mega event. The uniquely dhow-designed Al Wakrah Stadium is going to be the second venue ready to host matches as the prestigious Amir Cup football final is held on May 16.
The 40,000-capacity facility is an apt tribute to Al Wakrah’s seafaring past. Equipped with innovative cooling technology and retractable roof, the stadium, which can be used any time and in any conditions, has been a masterpiece created by AECOM and Zaha Hadid Architects.
Prior to the match on May 16, a stadium inauguration ceremony will take place before the game kicks off.
Al Wakrah Stadium is the second Qatar 2022 venue to be delivered by the SC following the successful redevelopment of Khalifa International Stadium, which was inaugurated in 2017 when it hosted that year’s Amir Cup final between Al Sadd and Al Rayyan.
Tickets for this year’s final are already available to buy, either online at tickets.qfa.qa or from a host of outlets across the country, including Villagio Mall, Mall of Qatar, Doha Festival City, City Center, Souq Waqif and Ezdan Mall, Al Wakrah. Tickets are available in four categories and priced between QAR 20 and QAR 100. Tickets will remain on sale until May 15.
Khalid Mubarak al Kuwari, the QFA’s Director of Marketing & Communications, said Al Wakrah Stadium would provide a fitting stage for Qatari football’s showpiece competition.
“We are honoured that one of Qatar’s World Cup venues will host this year’s Amir Cup final,” said Kuwari. “The 2017 Amir Cup final at Khalifa International Stadium was a magnificent occasion and we are sure this year’s final will be just as memorable.”
Kuwari added: “All our top clubs will be desperate to make the final and be one of the first teams to play on Al Wakrah’s freshly laid turf. And we are sure fans of all teams will be excited to join us on this auspicious occasion.”
Kuwari also announced that the Amir Cup Local Organising Committee will provide a number of activities to enrich the fan experience.
“Spectators of all ages will enjoy activations around the stadium’s precinct,” added Kuwari. “Additionally, we will give local businesses and restaurants the chance to showcase their products.”
Thani Khalifa al Zarraa, the SC’s Al Wakrah Stadium Project Manager, described the upcoming inauguration as a major milestone as Qatar continues preparations for the FIFA World Cup.
“The launch of Al Wakrah Stadium is a significant step on the road to 2022,” said Zarraa.
“Its innovative and futuristic design means it is set to be one of the iconic venues during the first FIFA World Cup in the Arab world. We hope thousands of football fans across the country will join us for this landmark occasion as we celebrate the progress we have made to-date and look forward to 2022 with renewed excitement.”
Zarraa added: “Al Wakrah Stadium will significantly boost the local community. During the design and execution phases, we met people from Al Wakrah in order to include their requirements in the project. We appreciate the contribution of everyone who took part in this project.”
The stadium, which was designed by Zaha Hadid and AECOM Architects. It has a fully retractable roof, meaning it can be used all-year-round. It also features innovative cooling technology for the benefit of supporters and players. The technology is capable of cooling the spectator areas to 18°C and the field of play to 20°C.
After the World Cup, the stadium’s capacity will be reduced to 20,000 thanks to its modular construction, with the excess seats being donated to sporting projects overseas. The stadium will also become the home of Qatar Stars League side Al Wakrah Sports Club.
For ticket information visit tickets.qfa.qa. For the very latest on the stadium inauguration follow @QFA and @roadto2022 on social media.
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