Sunday marked the kick-off of one of the most watched sporting events in the world. From now until December 19th, international football teams from all over the world will converge in Qatar vying for the World Cup. This international football tournament (soccer as we say in America) is one of the most talked-about current events in sports. Before fans fill the stadium, though, they have to leave their home countries and travel to Qatar. To help ensure that everyone gets there and enjoys their time safely, we’ve put together a list of travel tips for the World Cup.
How to Travel to Qatar Safely
Whether you’re traveling from the United States, England, France, Argentia or anywhere else there are a few things all travelers should keep in mind when it comes to travel safety.
Understand the local restrictions and requirements in Qatar
Before you depart for Qatar, it’s important that you understand entry requirements, restrictions and cultural expectations. For instance, anyone traveling to Qatar between Nov. 1 2022 and Jan. 23, 2023 will need a Hayya Card, which serves not only as an entry pass into Qatar but also an entry pass into the World Cup matches. This is regardless of whether or not you’ll be attending the World Cup. For more information on travel documents and cultural norms the U.S. Embassy in Qatar has you covered.
Remember your football match itinerary
When you’re trying to get your passport and other travel documents, it can be easy to forget one of the most important documents of your World Cup experience: Your match itinerary. Depending on what kind of ticket package you purchased, you’ll be eligible to watch specific games. Your match itinerary has all the details for every game you’re able to see.
Be vigilant
Qatar is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world. However, that doesn’t mean that you should let your guard completely down. Any time there is a major event that draws millions of international visitors, the potential for robbery and theft raises. Keep your valuables in a hotel safe and keep your wallet in your front pockets. At night, travel with at least one other person to minimize your risk of being targeted.
Build some sightseeing into your itinerary
While you may be going to Qatar for what is arguably the biggest sports event in the world (after the Olympics, that is), make the most of your time there. Look up fun things to do in Qatar, find must-visit places and must-eat delicacies, and really get to experience all the country has to offer. After all, if you’re coming from the U.S., you’ve made the 15+ hour plane ride already, you may as well rack up as many exciting experiences as you can.
Score trip insurance for your trip to Qatar
American residents traveling to Qatar for the World Cup might want to look into getting trip insurance before their departure. Trip insurance not only protects you financially from travel disruptions like cancellations, missed connections, and lost luggage, but it may also provide medical coverage up to $500,000 for any urgently needed medical care while you’re overseas. As a bonus to World Cup fans, you can also insure your tournament tickets and be refunded in the event that you are not able to use them for a covered reason.
