Qatar's 8 stadiums for 2022 FIFA World Cup

By Can Erozden

ANKARA (AA) - The 2022 FIFA World Cup's host nation Qatar has built eight stadiums as these venues represents local culture and have been equipped with technologic features to tackle with intense Gulf heat during matches.

In 2019, FIFA previously said that a professor, Dr. Saud Abdulaziz Abdul Ghani, who is called 'Dr. Cool' for his major contributions to the stadiums' cooling system, is seen 'the mastermind' behind Qatar's air-cooled football venues.

Dr. Saud has joined the 2022 World Cup project in 2009 when the country was in a bidding process.

"We are not just cooling the air, we're cleaning it," he said. "We're purifying the air for spectators. For example, people who have allergies won't have problems inside our stadiums. We have the cleanest and purest air there is," Dr. Saud added.

The organizers confirmed that they are aiming to keep the stadiums' temperature at 18-24 degrees Celsius (64.4-75.2 degrees Fahrenheit).

In November, Qatar is sunny and the weather is around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).

"Our stadiums can be used 24/7, all year round, leaving a legacy for Qatar after the tournament – and leaving no white elephants," Dr. Saud remarked.

- Qatar 2022 stadiums are as follows:

- Al Bayt Stadium

The Al Bayt Stadium, which has a 60,000-spectator capacity, will host the opening match of the 2022 World Cup.

This stadium will host nine matches including the opener between Qatar and Ecuador on Nov. 20.

The venue took its name from "bayt al sha’ar", the tents were used by nomadic people in Qatar and the Gulf region.

It is in Al Khor City, 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) north of Doha.

- Lusail Stadium

With its capacity of 80,000 spectators, the Lusail Stadium is the largest football venue of Qatar 2022.

Having gold panels to have an elegant look, the Lusail Stadium will host several matches including the final that will decide the winner on Dec. 18.

Title contenders Argentina (Group C) and Brazil (Group G) will play their two matches in this stadium.

- Al Janoub Stadium

Opened in 2019, the Al Janoub Stadium was designed by Zaha Hadid, a famous Iraqi-British architect who died in 2016.

Its roof was inspired by the sails of traditional sailing vessels and pearl diving.

The unique-designed stadium will host 2018 champions France for a match.

France will meet Australia in a Group D match on Nov. 22 at the Al Janoub Stadium.

It can host 40,000 fans.

- Education City Stadium

The Education City Stadium can change its color with the sun's movement across the sky. Its facade features triangles that form diamond-esque geometrical shapes.

The arena has 40,000 capacity.

- Ahmad bin Ali Stadium

Located right on the edge of the desert, the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium was said to be inspired by local culture and traditions

"The intricate façade reflects the undulations of sand dunes while intricate geometric patterns reflect the beauty of the desert, native flora and fauna, as well as local and international trade," the organizers said.

The stadium can host 40,000 fans.

- Multi-purpose Khalifa International Stadium

A multi-purpose stadium in Doha, the Khalifa International Stadium opened in 1976.

It hosted several major contests such as the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, 2019 FIFA Club World Cup, and the 2019 World Athletics Championships.

The Khalifa International Stadium has a 40,000-spectator capacity.

- Stadium 974

The Stadium 974 is the first temporary football venue in the FIFA World Cup history.

The venue that can host 40,000 fans was opened in 2021.

It was made from 974 recycled shipping containers.

The number 974 is also Qatar's calling code.

- Al Thumama Stadium

The Al Thumama Stadium's design is representing "Gahfiya", which is a traditional Arab cap worn by men and boys.

The facade and roof is circular.

The venue's capacity is 40,000.