New Exciting Destinations Opening in Qatar Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022

5 upcoming destinations for visitors in Qatar during the FIFA World Cup 2022

It's about a hundred days to go until FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 kicks off in November! Did you know that there are new destinations opening across the country for the visitors to take a tour around during the tournaments?

Qatar will have an assortment of exceptional new tourism developments to be established in time for the World Cup. From a winter-sun wonderland to a water sports paradise, these developments each add something special to the State's eclectic mix of attractions and activities to suit every type of traveller.

According to Qatar Tourism, by the year 2030, attracting over 6 million international visitors will be the target to make Qatar the fastest growing destination in the Middle East. 

Qatar aims to capitalise on the influx of over 1 million visitors expected for the FIFA World Cup 2022 and show the world its hidden treasures and unmissable holiday potential.

"The countdown to the World Cup is well underway and there's lots of world-class attractions to come before the matches begin. Amongst the buzz around the tournament itself we hope people are wowed by Qatar's state-of-the-art new tourism developments, significantly boosting the country's appeal as a leading holiday destination. There are new beaches for those looking for sun, sea and sand, theme parks and water sports hotels for the adventurous, and lots of new resorts, spas and restaurants for visitors seeking a more relaxing getaway," said Berthold Trenkel, Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism.

The 5 new places that will be opening before the world cup kicks off are: 

1. Lusail Winter Wonderland

The first destination that is expected to attract over 1.5 million visitors per year is situated at Al Maha Island in Lusail City. This theme park will be open from November to March every year. It will host 50 amusement rides including 10 thrill rides with a 395-roller coaster, 25 family rides with a giant 150 ft Ferris Wheel, and 15 children’s rides.

This new entertainment destination will feature seafront chalets, restaurants, festival games, rides, and cafes, bringing the festive spirit to the Middle East. It will be operated by IMG (International Marketing Group), the same company that manages Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park each year. Read also: Lusail Winter Wonderland to open in Qatar in 2022

2. Fuwairit Kite Beach (FKB)

Nestled in Qatar’s northern coast in Fuwairit village, with warm crystal-clear water and consistent wind, Fuwairit Kite Beach resort is the newest global hub for kitesurfing. It’s designed in a way that appeals to the Kitesurfer’s lifestyle, equipped with restaurants, a pool and yoga studio, and other facilities. 

Fuwairit is a coastal village, an easy hour drive north of Doha with excellent kitesurfing conditions – thanks to consistent winds, ideal ocean water and powder-soft sands.

3. The Outpost Al Barari

The Outpost will be the first of its kind in Qatar, integrating close-to-nature experiences, sustainability, and luxury hospitality into one beautiful resort in the globally unique Inland Sea nature reserve.

It boasts unique retreats comprising 20-40 tented ultra-luxury villas which are located in remote, mesmerizing locations in the country.

Surrounded by soaring sand dunes and desert wilderness, 21 luxury lodges with private pools will provide the perfect retreat from hectic city life. Stargazing, hot air ballooning, and immersive desert walks where you will learn about the local wildlife will be among the experiences on offer, alongside "Emerge in Nature" spa treatments and sensational culinary experiences.

4. Qetaifan Island North

Touted as the first "Entertainment Island" in Qatar, Qetaifan Island North will feature floating hotels, beach clubs and a water park with 36 rides - including "The Icon Tower" zone, featuring an 85-metre-high slide set to become the highest of its kind in the world.

The comprehensive master plan for development is centered around a state-of-the-art Waterpark. The project contains leisure attractions, luxurious hotels, unrivalled accommodation and world class facilities that make it a modern, globally-competitive community – all within a unique design that is inspired by the rich culture and natural resources of the Middle East region.

The Icon Tower island is accessed via a train and comprises changing facilities, F&B outlets, retail space and cabanas.

The water features on the island will include body, raft and tube rides and offer visitors a wide variety of waterpark thrills. While, the rides are to provide the full range of entertainment from children’s play structures to the most thrilling of adrenaline-packed experiences.

Set over 1.3 million square metres, the island is close to the Lusail Stadium, where the final of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will take place.

Read also: ‘Meryal’ unveiled as name of Qetaifan Island North waterpark

5. West Bay North Beach Project

The West Bay North Beach project is a unique tourist destination in Doha Downtown, creating a connected network of public and commercial activities in the area, while linked with the surrounding areas through public transportation network, pedestrian paths, and cycling lanes from Corniche down to Lusail

Located along the business district in Doha, this site is 10 minutes away from West Bay Metro Station and adjacent to a number of leading shopping outlets, parks and hotels. As part of the first phase, 6 beaches will be delivered for hotels surrounding West Bay to enhance tourism, while the second phase will be announced at a later stage.

The project will add a unique entertainment destination for families and tourists in Qatar to enjoy excellent services and to practice diverse activities in a single destination. It is expected to become a prominent new tourist attraction in Qatar. It is also part of Qatar National Vision 2030, as it includes a beach dedicated to swimming, a park for sports activities, and a celebration area to be used as fan zone during hosting of FIFA World CupTM Qatar 2022.

The public and private beach areas will offer distinct beach experiences with a wide variety of food and beverage offerings, to create a sought-after city beach experience for everyone to enjoy. Moreover, the project aims to provide a new and different leisure destination where visitors can practice various activities such as swimming, jogging, bike riding, as well as enjoy dining in restaurants overlooking the beach.

The wave of new resorts and attractions adds to a flurry of openings in Qatar over the last couple of years. In March 2022 the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum launched as one world's most innovate sports museums. In 2021 one of the region's largest theme parks called Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park opened with 28 slides and rides. And last summer a theme park called Quest Doha was unveiled featuring the world's tallest indoor rollercoaster.

What's In Store After FIFA World Cup?

The excitement never stops after the FIFA World Cup 2022, as there will also be lots of exciting events in Qatar following the tournaments. The State will host a Qatar Formula 1 Grand Prix for at least a decade from 2023, along with the new Geneva International Motorshow Qatar. Watch out for more updates and keep on following Qatar Day to keep abreast of the latest happenings in the country.