If you’ll be attending the World Cup, it would be in your best interests to stay updated about rules. Just like any sports tournament, there are regulations and laws. And with the tournament being held in a Middle East country, there are regulations that you might not be familiar with.
For instance, drinking alcohol in Qatar is usually illegal. However, the organizers of this great event are committed to relaxing the rules for those who’ll be in attendance. FIFA has received backlash for holding the World Cup in Qatar. But organizers are trying to find common ground between the lawmakers and fans.
2022 Qatar World Cup Rules for fans
With that said, here’s everything you need to know about the Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022: Rules for fans.
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Alcohol
Qatar’s liquor laws will be relaxed for the World Cup. Fans will be able to buy and drink alcohol in designated fan zones and in stadiums. Qatar is a Muslim country. This means alcohol is only available to purchase by non-Muslim residents and visitors with a permit.
Additionally, it can only be bought from licensed outlets, and Qatar Airways serves alcohol on its flights. So, what does this mean for fans who like enjoying the beautiful game with a beer? You’ll be able to drink alcohol in fan cones and outside the stadiums. However, consumption inside the stadium is prohibited.
What happens if a supporter gets too drunk? The World Cup Chief, Nasser Al Khater, has promised to include drunk fans in their tournament plans. He promised to take the fans to ‘safe spaces’ to allow them to sober up for their safety.
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COVID-19
With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging on, Qatar has taken extra precautions. Remember that Qatar was one of the first countries to receive the Pfizer vaccine.
The middle eastern country is also making sure that all visitors have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. It has also set up quarantine and testing facilities for those who need it.
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Smoking
There are a number of regulations in Qatar regarding smoking. These are especially pertinent to fans attending the World Cup in 2022. For one, it is illegal to smoke in public places.
This includes restaurants, bars, shopping centers, and other indoor spaces. In addition, there are strict laws regarding the sale and purchase of tobacco products like cigarettes and e-cigarettes.
This is largely due to the fact that Qatar is a relatively small country with a high population density. Given this, there is a significant risk of secondhand smoke exposure for non-smokers in these crowded spaces.
As such, smokers must be aware of their surroundings at all times when they are in Qatar and should avoid lighting up if they are near people who may be affected by their smoke.
In addition to these general rules about smoking in public places, there are also specific restrictions on where smokers can light up during the World Cup. For example, outdoor areas like stadiums or train stations will have designated “smoking zones.”
Fans can legally smoke in these areas without being subject to fines or other penalties. There may be additional restrictions on smoking during matches or other events organized as part of the tournament.
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Clothing and Dress Code
Clothing and dress codes in Qatar are strictly regulated and enforced. This is especially rigid when it comes to beachwear and attire in public spaces. This includes wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers both the shoulders and knees. The same is true for appropriate footwear such as sneakers or sandals.
Swimwear is generally only allowed on beaches designated specifically for swimming, while other beach areas require visitors to wear modest clothing that is more suitable for relaxation and socializing.
Football fans who enjoy taking their shirts off during the game will be disappointed to know that this is prohibited. The regulations do not allow fans to take off their football jerseys and shirts inside the stadium or out on the streets.
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Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection are generally not allowed in Qatar. This is particularly true for public places like beaches and parks. This is due to the fact that the country is a conservative society that places great importance on upholding traditional values.
However, this does not mean that there are no opportunities for couples or lovers to show their affection for each other in Qatar. For example, many restaurants and cafes in Qatar now have designated “couples’ tables”. This offers an intimate setting for couples to enjoy their meals and spend time together away from prying eyes.
It is important for World Cup fans traveling to Qatar to be aware of the restrictions around public displays of affection. You can be subject to heavy fines or even jail time if you are caught engaging in PDA.
Remember, Qatar is big on the cohabitation of married couples. However, authorities have confirmed that unmarried friends of the opposite sex can stay together in hotel rooms.
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Sexual Orientation and the LGBTQ Community
The Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022 will be the first World Cup held in an Arab country. Qatar isn’t the most welcoming country when it comes to the LGBTQ community. The country’s laws state that homosexuality is punishable by flogging, imprisonment, or even death.
However, when the Qatar World Cup Chief, Nassar Al Khater, stated that LGBTQ fans are welcome to attend the tournament. In his own words, the chief stated that they would feel safe and welcome in the country as they supported their teams.
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The Hayya Card
The Hayya card is an important tool for football fans visiting Qatar for the World Cup. This card acts as a travel pass that allows fans to access public transportation for free and entrance to stadiums.
This is a compulsory card for ticket holders. This means you cannot apply for this card without a valid match ticket. The card can be acquired by visitors either online or in person.
Conclusion
Overall, it is important for football fans attending the World Cup in Qatar to be aware of the local laws. This will allow them to stay out of trouble while enjoying all the excitement that the tournament has to offer.