As anticipation builds up to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, tour organisers have received an overwhelming number of booking requests from fans and tourists.
Being a link between the East and West and its easy accessibility from some of the world’s major cities, Qatar anticipates a significant influx of visitors for the World Cup. With less than 280 days to the much-anticipated tournament, which will take place from November 21 December 18, in eight magnificent stadiums across Qatar, ticket applications have also reached significant numbers with 17 million requests in the first sales period.
The tour organisers provide services like private yacht cruise, dhow cruise, desert safari, Purple Island mangroves kayaking, museums visits and many more.
“We are getting a huge number of enquiries for bookings for the World Cup already,” Experience.qa’s Abdulrahman Sajid told The Peninsula.
“Many people from Asia, Europe, the US, South Africa, and other parts of Africa and South America have enquired and are itching to make reservations. Of course, we anticipated we would have a huge influx of people for the World Cup, and Qatar’s offerings make it more attractive,” Sajid added.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact global travel, Sajid noted that most fans are hesitant to confirm bookings due to uncertain quarantine policies, particularly those returning to their countries after the World Cup. He said a clear quarantine plan would boost travellers’ confidence and streamline booking.
To accommodate the around 1.5 million expected visitors for the duration of the World Cup, organisers and the government have introduced several creative housing options.
Besides hotels and apartment rentals, authorities have chartered cruise ships from MSC Cruises, which will provide 3,898 cabins during the event. Desert camping will also be an option for fans.
Meanwhile, Sajid also stressed that this is the best time for investors to take advantage of the World Cup year to invest in the tourism and hospitality sector as most businesses are exploring ways to increase their inventory.
“For me, I think this is the best time for government and private investment, especially in water activities. For us, we are trying to secure more inventories before the tournament begins. For instance, if a business has two boats, they’ll be looking to make it 10. That would significantly increase the services we offer,” he added.
With the incredible atmosphere of centrally located stadiums, beautiful hotels, and enjoy Qatar’s authentic culture. All stadiums are located within 55km of Doha, making it accessible for supporters to travel from one match to the next.
