People doing shopping and enjoying the beautiful streets and restaurants at Souq Waqif. PIC: Ayeni Olusegun
Over ten days after the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, residents are still basking in the highs of the tournament, which saw nearly 1.5 million fans arrive in the country. The World Cup fiesta brought thrills and buzz to Doha, and the Souq Waqif – the iconic landmark was a hotspot for visitors. Now, residents want more.
Thronged by Arab fans, especially Saudi Arabia and Moroccans, as their teams achieved historical results in the first World Cup to be hosted in the Middle East and the Arab World, the Souq was a living intersection of cultures during the tournament.
The narrow alleyways, coffee shops, exquisite restaurants and souvenir shops were major attractive stops for other visiting fans.
“It was a different experience seeing how packed the Souq was during the World Cup,” a long-term Doha resident told The Peninsula.
“I was here for most of the World Cup in the evenings, and fans from different countries mingled and enjoyed the games, especially the Arab fans who supported Morocco as they progressed in the tournament,” he added.
As Doha returns to normal post-World Cup, several tourists still find the Souq Waqif fascinating today. With the iconic art Thumb artwork, many can’t resist taking a few photos; the art centre and, of course, the numerous local and international delicacies are still noteworthy tourist attractions.
“I came here for the second-round matches,” an English fan said.
“I have visited the Souq regularly since I arrived in Doha. I always look forward to the ambience, the food and the serenity, especially in the mornings.”
On the other hand, stall owners, especially those selling Arab robes, jewellery, carpets, souvenirs and paintings, wish for days like the World Cup to return.
Though many said they didn’t take a day off, 10 days after the tournament, they insist Qatar should be awarded more global events due to its unrivalled ability to host them.
“We were full all day and night during the World Cup,” Abdel, who runs a coffee shop around the famous Thumb area, said.
“The World Cup was a big boost, not just to business but to share what and who we are as Arabs. I wish we would have more events like this in the future.”
On the other hand, Abdelmalik, a manager of one of the antique stores, said tourists were intrigued by the local crafts and artworks – the wooden dhows were particularly liked by the visiting fans from around the world.
“Many wanted the old swords, while others were into the carved falcons, lamps, and paintings. We were prepared for the influx because we knew how significant this World Cup was to Qatar and the region. Hopefully, many events like this are held in Qatar, it was remarkable, and we are proud to have witnessed this historic World Cup,” he added.
The World Cup may have ended, but the legacy it leaves behind will continue.
The iconic Souq Waqif and other tourist attractions are poised to welcome more visitors as Qatar prepares to host international events from 2023, including the Expo Doha, Geneva International Motor Show Qatar 2023, Formula 1, AFC competitions and many more.
