AFC Asian Cup Qatar welcomes all fans with accessibility features

The AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Local Organising Committee (LOC) has affirmed its commitment to providing an accessible experience to disabled fans.Several accessibility features have been put in place to ensure a barrier-free user experience for disabled fans throughout the tournament, a statement said.All nine stadiums of the tournament are equipped with accessible entrances and seating for wheelchair users and fans with limited mobility. The Doha Metro network, Lusail Tram and shuttle services between metro stations and stadiums offer wheelchair access.Lusail, Education City and Al Bayt stadiums will feature sensory rooms for fans with sensory access requirements, including fans with autism. These spaces allow fans to watch matches in a quieter area, equipped with assistive technology and managed by trained staff.Audio descriptive commentary services for blind and partially sighted fans will also be available. Fans with visual disabilities can access the service from their own mobile device where they will be able to listen to a detailed description of match proceedings, enabling them to be part of the live action in stadiums.Engineer Bodour al-Meer, LOC executive director of Sustainability, highlighted the centrality of inclusivity in Qatar’s hosting of mega sporting events: "We believe that football is for everyone. We have always believed in the power of tournaments like the Asian Cup in bringing about positive social change. Qatar 2022 was recognised for going above and beyond accessibility standards, and we are delighted to carry this legacy forward with the Asian Cup. We look forward to welcoming fans of all abilities to have a wonderful experience.”Qatar is hosting the AFC Asian Cup for a record third time after successfully hosting it in 1988 and 2011. A total of 24 of the continent’s best teams are competing for the continent’s most prestigious football title. A total of 51 matches will be played across nine stadiums, with the final set for February 10.