SC updates Qatar’s foreign ambassadors on FIFA World Cup preparations
Gulf Times
* Briefing session held ahead of Final Draw on 1 April Members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Qatar attended a briefing organised by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) to outline the latest information about the FIFA World Cup, which will be held from 21 November to 18 December. Hosted by HE Hassan Al Thawadi, SC Secretary General, the event was attended by ambassadors and heads of missions from more than 60 countries. During his opening address, Al Thawadi said: “From day one, we looked at this tournament as an opportunity for us to work together to ensure that the entire world – including the people from your nations – will become a part of this World Cup. At the same time, this an opportunity for us to showcase this part of the world and the true meaning of Arab hospitality.” Eng. Yasir Al Jamal, SC Director General, discussed the newly-launched accommodation and Hayya Card websites, which were unveiled last week.
He added: “For the past 11 years, we have been busy preparing the eight stadiums and training sites for the tournament. Our main focus this year is ensuring that these venues operate smoothly and that fans enjoy a seamless experience. This includes providing fans travelling to Qatar with a one-stop-shop for affordable and accessible accommodation.” Al Jamal also highlighted the tournament’s compact nature and transportation options for fans, including the state-of-the-art metro, expressways and electric buses. Nasser Al Khater, CEO, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC, highlighted the important role embassies and missions play in managing guest relations. He also announced the launch of the soon-to-open International Consular Services Centre. The audience also heard from Major General Eng. Abdulaziz Al Ansari, Gold Commander and Chairman of the Security and Safety Operations Committee (SSOC), who highlighted the measures Qatar is taking to safeguard the tournament. He said: “We are working closely with our partners from Qatar and FIFA, along with international stakeholders, to deliver a safe and secure World Cup. We aim to meet the highest international standards in security procedures to deliver a safe edition of the tournament. Our goal is to ensure that fans from all over the word feel safe and secure in Qatar while building a sustainable legacy for the country, the region and the world in the field of securing mega-sporting events.” “The SSOC’s planning methodology includes a security strategy that builds on previous tournaments as it establishes unified concepts and uses joint operation plans that take into account the various requirements for hosting the tournament,” added Al Ansari. Tickets for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 are now available on a first-come, first-served basis.
