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Posted On: 20 November 2022 12:50 pm
Updated On: 20 November 2022 02:22 pm

Over 40,000 fans attended the official opening of the FIFA Fan Festival™

Tracy Quirino
Tracy Quirino
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FIFA Fan Festival 40k attendees

On the eve of the first FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East and the Arab world, the FIFA Fan Festival™ was officially opened at Al Bidda Park.

More than 40,000 fans attended the opening, which included DJ sets, a firework display, and a thrilling performance of the FIFA Fan Festival anthem Tukoh Taka by Myriam Fares and Maluma.

FIFA Fan Festival opening
Image Credit: Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy

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 program are available on FIFA+.

H.E. 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 feature:

  • 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 acts and live works by internationally acclaimed performance artists
  • 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

RELATED: Who is performing at the FIFA Fan Festival™

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.

RELATED: How to apply for Hayya Card or Fan ID

FIFA Fan Festival opening times:

Date Time

  • 20 November 4 pm to 2 am
  • 21 November 4 pm to 2 am
  • 22-29 November 11 am to 2 am
  • 30 November to 18 December 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 FIFA Fan Festival only

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.

RELATED: Public transportation guide for the World Cup; including driving your own car

Source and cover image credit: Press Release