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While continuing its sustainability practices and efforts to reduce carbon emission, the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa), represented by the National Programme for Conservation and Energy Efficiency (Tarsheed), will set up 150 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the country in 2023.Engineer Mohamed Khalid al-Sharshani, head of the technical section at Tarsheed, told Qatar TV that these stations will serve the consumers while helping the country achieve its sustainability goals.“Last year, while preparing for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, we set up around 100 electric vehicle charging stations. We are looking to expand the network to 600 to 1,000 fast charging stations by 2025,” al-Sharshani said. The electric charging stations will be established across Qatar in cooperation with various stakeholders including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) and the Ministry of Transport and Communication (MoTC).Meanwhile, Kahramaa tweeted that it’s making great efforts to keep Qatar vibrant and achieve sustainability in transport, energy and water sectors while spreading awareness and implementing environmental initiatives at the national level.Kahramaa noted that eight electric charging stations were established with the World Cup stadiums while it supported public transportation through its charging stations. Also, Kahramaa added, an agreement was signed with Qatar Fuel (Woqod) to supply, install and operate 37 charging units for electric vehicles (EV) at Woqod stations distributed over 22 sites across Qatar.Ultra-fast and highly efficient, these units can charge cars in less than half an hour and this comes within the many initiatives undertaken by Kahramaa to establish and expand the electric charging network for cars, in response to the strategy adopted by MoT in this regard.While hosting the World Cup, Kahramaa, in cooperation with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), launched the 'Sustainability Zone' initiative in the Kahramaa Awareness Park, to introduce the FIFA World Cup fans to the environmental sustainability efforts associated with the tournament.

Shaking hands with Lionel Messi and posing for a photograph with the football legend, it was a dream come true and a moment to cherish for two Doha-based specially-abled brothers. Dominic and Daniel, expatriates from India, were invited by FIFA to watch the World Cup semi-final between Argentina and Croatia at Lusail Stadium. Besides Messi, the duo got the opportunity to meet Argentina players and shook hands with the likes of Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez and Paulo Dybala in the Mixed Zone of the stadium while the two teams were heading into the ground for the kickoff.“For me, it’s like a long-pending dream coming true. I was more than excited while Messi shook my hands and wished me,” said Dominic, who is a diehard Argentina fan. In fact, Dominic said, "I don’t remember who all passed by me after I was greeted by Messi and handshake with him."Dominic (16) and Daniel (11) suffer from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disorder characterised by the progressive loss of muscle. The two boys, along with their parents Vinu Joseph and Bindu Simon, were given a special invitation by FIFA to attend the match after Vinu’s colleague Koshy Panicker approached the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy.In the Mixed Zone, the family took a photo with Messi, and the two boys also accompanied the Argentina players to the ground for their national anthem. Daniel, a Portugal fan, was also glad to meet and greet some of his favourite players. Vinu said the family was given due care and consideration inside the stadium with a range of services and facilities to ensure connectivity and mobility for specially-abled fans. The family was offered a room in the stadium lobby, which was equipped with the latest assistive technology and educational and rehabilitation equipment. The stadiums have sensory rooms for people with intellectual disabilities.

Famous Qatari comedian and presenter Hamad al-Amari has received international recognition in appreciation for his stunning performance while enthralling and entertaining fans at the FIFA Fan Festival (FFF) at Al Bidda Park from November 19 to December 18, as part of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Al-Amari, during a conversation with Gulf Times, said that he has got invitations to visit various countries after his performance struck a chord with international fans. Nearly 2mn fans from across the world enjoyed the FFF.“I have been invited to Japan, Sri Lanka, South Africa, India, Costa Rica, Berlin, France, the US and a host of other countries and cities around the world. This is a recognition indeed,” he said. Al-Amari was invited by a Japanese family, who he helped find accommodation after they wanted to extend their stay in Qatar. “I met a family from Japan who flew to Qatar for the World Cup. None of the family members spoke English or Arabic. They expressed their love to me using Google translate and I was speaking to them through Google translate. It’s amazing to be able to have these kinds of interactions with people from all around the world. I helped them find the accommodation and they invited me to stay with them in Japan,” al-Amari recalled.Attired in the traditional Qatari thobe, ghutra and igal, al-Amari was on the stage of the FIFA Fan Festival, anchoring the programmes every night. Despite the demands of the project, which had him facing incredible audiences daily for about a month, al-Amari feels incredibly grateful for the opportunity to grow and evolve as an entertainer through it. “Anytime a performer is on stage, they have a chance to perfect their craft. Being on stage daily helped me connect with incredible people and continue delivering entertainment,” he noted.The stand-up comedian has hosted the fan zones in Qatar in 2014 and 2018. “My goal has always been to deliver great performances continually, so I was happy to be responsible for the FIFA Fan Festival this year and glad to be recognised by an entity like FIFA for my work,” he said.Al-Amari loves engaging with people from around the world while interacting with them during the match breaks. “The Fan Festival is a place that is filled with fans who are already excited, so the entertainment part is easy when they are coming with such great energy. Also, I love football and this is the best World Cup ever from a football perspective so I know both the fans and I are having a blast,” he said, adding that the festival was the best place to be in Qatar during the World Cup outside of stadiums.“I felt like I am living the dream while being at the festival. "I was showered with love daily, and all I could give back was love”.

Shaking hands with Lionel Messi and posing for a photograph with the football legend, it was a dream come true and a moment to cherish for two Doha-based specially-abled brothers.Dominic and Daniel, expatriates from India, were invited by FIFA to watch the World Cup semi-final between Argentina and Croatia at Lusail Stadium. Besides Messi, the duo got the opportunity to meet Argentina players and shook hands with the likes of Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez and Paulo Dybala in the Mixed Zone of the stadium while the two teams were heading into the ground for the kickoff.“For me, it’s like a long-pending dream coming true. I was more than excited while Messi shook my hands and wished me,” said Dominic, who is a diehard Argentina fan.In fact, Dominic said, "I don’t remember who all passed by me after I was greeted by Messi and handshake with him."Dominic (16) and Daniel (11) suffer from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disorder characterised by the progressive loss of muscle. The two boys, along with their parents Vinu Joseph and Bindu Simon, were given a special invitation by FIFA to attend the match after Vinu’s colleague Koshy Panicker approached the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy.In the Mixed Zone, the family took a photo with Messi, and the two boys also accompanied the Argentina players to the ground for their national anthem.Daniel, a Portugal fan, was also glad to meet and greet some of his favourite players.Vinu said the family was given due care and consideration inside the stadium with a range of services and facilities to ensure connectivity and mobility for specially-abled fans. The family was offered a room in the stadium lobby, which was equipped with the latest assistive technology and educational and rehabilitation equipment. The stadiums have sensory rooms for people with intellectual disabilities.

Vibrant graffiti depicting football fever and adorning streets, walls, stadiums and buildings have earned appreciation from fans who descended on the country from across the world for the ongoing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Among these works are the much celebrated Arhbu mural at Doha Corniche, a painting at Lusail Stadium of Lionel Messi’s trademark pointing to the sky celebration, and the Now Is All mural, again at the Corniche.Indian calligrapher Abdul Kareem is glad to leave his mark on the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 while giving vent to his creativity to promote football by mixing heritage and culture with the beautiful game.“I could play a role in the World Cup by enthralling the fans and showing them Qatar’s love for art and football,” he told Gulf Times.Popularly known as “Kareemgraphy”, the Qatar resident is a professional artist and has been active in calligraphy and painting.He was selected by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) and invited to share his talent while lending Qatar’s guests a picture of the country’s rich artistic and visual scene during the World Cup.The artist painted live 10 murals at Doha Corniche, Lusail Stadium, Al Messila and Umm Salal Desert.The artworks highlight Qatar’s tradition, culture and its passion for football.Pictures of his tribute to Morocco’s win were widely shared among Arab fans.The painting has two wings, with one showing Qatar’s flag and the other featuring Morocco’s flag, depicting the warm relations between both nations.The artist also received recognition from FIFA when his calligraphy was included in the latest song Ezz Alarab in both video and poster.What makes the paintings special is that they are closely attached to Qatar’s arts and cultural legacy.“My works have melded the artistic features of Arabic calligraphy. I used Arabic letters with some murals to highlight the Arab art,” the artist said, observing that it was a different experience to paint on streets.“Streets are amazing places with great artistic potential. Even without art, the streets are beautiful and they stay alive,” Kareemgraphy explained. “While colouring the streets, I tried to make them further beautiful and intact.”The artist said that his works were widely appreciated by fans from across the world, and he has received recognition from local and international artists.“My works are viewed by thousands, and I feel happy (when I see) them taking pictures,” he remarked. “Being part of the artists’ collective, I could learn a lot while sharing the ideas and experiences. Many presented me with gifts in appreciation of my work.”

Friday’s 'Battle of Lusail' brought cheers to Argentina fans across the world, including a 13-year-old from the Indian state of Kerala, for whom it also a moment of 'redemption'.After Argentina's shock defeat to Saudi Arabia in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Mohamed Nibras from Thrikaripur in northern Kerala was mocked and a video went viral showing him crying after his favourite team lost.But all that is in the past. For, Nibras, who travelled to Qatar to witness Argentina's victory over the Netherlands at Lusail Stadium last Friday, has lots to cheer about - the tears of pain turning into tears of joy.“I was upset when my team suffered the shock loss. But now I am glad that I could witness Argentina's victory with thousands of people at Lusail Stadium on Friday,” Nibras told Gulf Times.A diehard fan of Lionel Messi, Nibras cheered for his team at the stadium and watched the full match. He was happy to take some photographs while realising his dream of watching his favourite Argentina stars in action. “Messi rose to the expectations of fans and our team achieved what it deserved,” he said, adding that it felt like his dream was coming true while watching the match and that he is now a star.UAE-based Smart Travel managing director Afi Ahmed arranged Nibras's trip to Doha and the tickets. The young fan travelled from Kannur to Dubai last week. From Dubai, he flew to Doha on Friday and left the country for Dubai after watching the match. “Nibras has proven to be a strong boy, who resisted the mocking while his team lost. I wanted to motivate him and his ability to stay strong,” Afi told Gulf Times.Nibras wanted to come to Qatar even though he had to attend his examinations. Luckily, his parents allowed him to travel and the travel agency contacted the family.“My parents let me go, saying this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I will appear for the exams later accordingly,” he said. "Exams will come again. And those who made fun of me are treating me like a star now."In the video, Nibras had predicted that the Latin American team will fight back after the loss to Saudi in the group stage. And the team did so emphatically, bouncing back to beat Mexico, Poland, Australia and the Netherlands. Nibras is confident that the team will lift the World Cup in Qatar.The boy also hopes to see Messi add to his goal tally at this World Cup. The Argentina star, who has scored four goals until now, will get that chance in the semi-final against Croatia.

The Moroccan flag could be seen flying everywhere in Doha as fans continued to celebrate the team's amazing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 journey.Morocco's victories over footballing powerhouses and their march to the semi-finals have brought the Arab world together, from Doha to Casablanca and beyond, with the celebrations reflecting the Arab unity.Fans carrying the flags of Morocco, Qatar, Palestine and Saudi Arabia, among other Arab nations, welcomed the Atlas Lions' victory in style at Souq Waqif, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Darb Lusail, metro stations and the streets of Doha.“Morocco’s victory gives us much pleasure,” Lutfi Yunus from Egypt told *Gulf Times. “And Morocco has inspired Arab pride.”Morocco defeated Portugal 1-0 in a quarter-final clash at Al Thumama Stadium on Saturday, becoming the first Arab or African team to make it to the last four of the tournament.Hundreds thronged Souq Waqif to buy Moroccan flags and red-and-green jerseys.“We are glad that our country is hosting this amazing tournament in which our Arab brothers have had this historic achievement,” a Qatari fan said while celebrating with the Moroccan flag at Msheireb Downtown Doha. “They deserve our support and we are here for our brothers with our bodies and hearts.”Cars draped in the Moroccan flag could be seen on streets across the Qatari capital.“The victory is not about a simple victory in a football match. The Arabs have left a mark in Doha,” said Morocco fan Marouane Belmehdi, adding that the fans and players feel at home in Qatar. “Everybody here chants ‘Long Live Morocco' and lines up with us while celebrating. We are glad to see our brothers’ support and enthusiasm and we owe them much for everything.”“The Arab pride, you can feel it on the streets,” he said. “The buildings are lit up while marking the Qataris’ affection and love towards us."Ilias Bensedira, another Moroccan national, said cities in Arab countries were filled with overwhelming joy as people raised the flag and chanted slogans in celebration of the victory.“The entire Arab world is excited and overwhelmed by the Moroccan national team's performance.Our team will make it to the final while meeting the expectations of the Arab community across the world,” he added.Morocco will play against France in the semi-finals.

It was an ocean of red and green as thousands took to the streets of Doha Saturday and the party continued till late in the night following Morocco's remarkable victory over Portugal to enter the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.This is the first time an Arab or African team has made it to the last four of the tournament, and that it has happened in the first World Cup to be held in the Arab world makes it even sweeter.Morocco defeated Portugal 1-0 in a quarter-final clash at Al Thumama Stadium Saturday, in a match that will be remembered for a long time. The Moroccans had already set the bar high and raised the hopes of the entire Arab world and the African continent, thanks to their sterling performances against formidable teams such as Belgium, Croatia and Spain. Now, they have added Portugal to the list of famous victories.The atmosphere at the stadium was electric, and it felt like a home game for the Atlas Lions as Moroccan supporters turned up in large numbers to cheer on their team.As the final whistle was blown, the arena resonated with the sound of a thunderous applause - a recognition of what Walid Regragui’s team has achieved.And long after that, the celebrations continued.The Moroccan flag, along with those of Qatar, Palestine and other Arab countries, was seen flying high across the city. From the streets of Doha to metro stations and from Souq Waqif to Msheireb Downtown Doha, chants of ‘Long Live Morocco' could be heard everywhere.The Atlas Lions made history while becoming the first African team to advance to the semifinals of a World Cup with a 1-0 win over Portugal.Souq Waqif turned to be the central point of gathering while fans thronged to the alleys from Msheireb Down Town and Souq Waqif and Msheireb Metro Stations.“Our victory is history. We should celebrate the historic moment. And we are here,” Morocco fan Mostapha told Gulf Times. “ All roads lead to Souq now. And the entire world is watching us,” he said.The fans praised the players and noted that the team’s performance is improving day by day. “We are glad that the team members keep their spirits up while working hard for our country and the Arab world. And Walid Regragui is doing his job amazingly while guiding the team to the next round,” said Suhaib Ouni noting that the credit of the achievements goes to the players and the staff equally. “Everyone is doing his bit with dedication and passion. And we will make it to the final while beat our next opponent,” he said.Another fan, Othman noted that the fans were upset while Walid Cheddira earned a red card while the match entered injury time. “We made it possible despite some unexpected backlashes. Cheddira’s exit isn't going to affect the team’s in the next round. We got good replacements,” he said.

Many citizens as well as residents are planning to spend the weekend in Doha while watching the matches and exploring the tourist destinations. “It’s a good opportunity for GCC residents to enjoy the World Cup vibe while exploring Qatar. We are looking to spend this weekend in Doha while enjoying the World Cup moments with friends there,” Dubai resident Fasil Firoz told Gulf Times.The new step was taken in the context of the State's efforts to provide an opportunity for visitors, citizens and residents of the GCC countries, to enjoy the atmosphere accompanying the matches of the World Cup.As per the plans, Fasil, with his friends, will drive to the Qatar- Saudi Arabia border from where they will take the free transportation from the checkpoint to Al-Messila in Central Doha where they will be picked by friends.“We like to go to the stadiums and fan zones and become part of the World Cup in Qatar,” he said.Fans and tourists crossing the land border using buses and various means of land transportation can make use of the parking facilities allocated for visitors at Abu Samra border. The citizens and residents of the GCC countries arriving in Qatar by air will be able to enter without requiring registration via the Hayya platform. They must apply for a permit on the MoI website at least 12 hours before travel; the permit does not require any fee. Fans who wish to see the matches live in a stadium must register via the Hayya online platform. MoI has increased the number of passport counters at the checkpoint to serve visitors to the country, including fans, citizens, residents and others. And it has set up a comfortable tent ready to receive more than 4,000 people per hour.Mosafer Travel and Tourism general manager Firos Nattu said that many GCC residents are availing the benefit of the new step noting that the weekends will see the influx of tourists and fans.Another Dubai resident Zubair Sidheeq, who is planning to spend Saturday and Sunday in Doha, said that he will be driving to the Saudi Arabian city Salwa from where he will head to Abu Samra border by bus, arranged by the Saudi Ministry of Transport. From the border, he will reach Doha by the free bus. “The proceedings are easy and we are looking to avail of the new scheme,” he said.

Excited Moroccan fans thronged the streets of Doha singing and dancing, while celebrating their national team’s historic win against Spain in the ongoing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 on Tuesday.In the red-green t-shirts, the Moroccan fans streamed through Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village, Msheireb Downtown Doha and metro stations late into the night.“We want the night to be cherished and remembered. This is a great occasion. Our team has attained what is, to some extent, perceived as impossible. We got every reason to cheer while staying awake the whole night,” Morocco fan Zainab told Gulf Times.“We love our players. The defenders did their part amazingly well preventing the Spanish players from scoring while the strikers made some spectacular moves,” said Marwan, another fan.Morocco's goal keeper Yassine Bounou has won the hearts of the fans by saving Carlos Soler and Sergio Busquets’ penalty. “Indeed, the credit of the victory goes to all. But, we owe much to Bounou for his heroic performance at the Education City Stadium. The Sevilla star played a crucial role in taking our team to the next level,” Marwan added.Fans of Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Tunisian teams also showed their support to Morocco while taking part in the processions and wearing the national team’s jerseys. “Our Arab brothers did a good job. We should support Morocco since it’s the only Arab team remaining in the tournament,” said one Qatari fan.Abdul Raoof from Tunisia said that he became an ardent supporter of Morocco after his national team exited the tournament in the first round. “Our brothers deserve our love and solidarity,” he added.

The reputation of Doha Metro staff have risen to stardom levels among FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 fans and tourists, who have heaped praise on them while lauding the pivotal role that Qatar Rail is playing in ensuring smooth transportation to stadiums and various tourist destinations.“We are glad that our determination and dedication pay us back,” a metro staff member at Al Wakra station told *Gulf Times. “We earn much praise everywhere while serving passengers.”For the Doha Metro staff, serving at the stations is not a just a job.“We are proud that we facilitate the smooth organising of a crucial component of the mega event,” said another staff member, on duty at Umm Ghuwailina station. “We enjoy guiding the fans, managing the crowd and checking the cards. This can’t be smoothly done without dedication and attention. Passion, rather than anything else, drives us.”The Doha Metro serves fans 21 hours a day from Saturday to Thursday and 18 hours on Friday, with shorter train headway times and increased operational capacity and more than 5,000 additional staff deployed to serve the tournament.Abubakr Abbass, a 23-year-old metro staff member from Kenya, drew much attention while using a creative method of directing people to the metro station.His video of guiding the fans while sitting on a tennis-umpire chair and armed with a large foam finger and a megaphone went viral on social media.The Kenyan was later invited as a special guest at the match between England and the US at Al Bayt Stadium.Abbas's performance had a wide impact on the staff, with most of the stations started to witness staff members dancing and singing while managing the crowd in a creative way.Various catchphrases like “Metro? This way”, “Stadium? This Way”, “Airport? This Way” and “Fan Zone? This Way” started to strike a chord with the fans and tourists.“Many (commuters) echo our announcements and love to take selfies with us while heading to the stations or exiting,” said a metro man at Al Bidda station.“They are doing the job amazingly and make things easy for us,” said Canadian fan Chris Dorrington. “The credit of ensuring smooth transportation goes to the metro staff.”“Qatar’s metro is much nicer than most of the metros across the world,” noted Abraham Schewel while praising the services of metro and its staff. “It’s a nice place to see people and cheer for the teams.”The Doha Metro and the staff are prepared to deal with any expected influx of crowds during the tournament, with the number of trains having been increased from 75 to 110 for continuous service during the World Cup.As part of the preparations, training programmes and drills were held ahead of the tournament.

Arab fans are upbeat and celebrating every moment with the Moroccan national team set to take on Spain at Education City Stadium Tuesday at 6pm.Lions de l’Atlas (Atlas Lions) is the lone Arab team still in the first World Cup in the Middle East.This is also the first time since 1986 that a North African country has entered the last 16 stage.The fans, most of them Moroccans, are thronging streets, fan zones and markets where they cheer for their team.“We are hopeful that our team will enter the quarter-finals, beating Spain,” Moroccan fan Issam Laabi told *Gulf Times.Moroccans in Qatar are feeling the love from all over the Arab world ahead of their match against Spain.Most of the fans of teams Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia are supporting Morocco after their squads exited the World Cup during the first round.“Our country is representing the whole Arab world in the second round,” said Noureddine Ameur. “And we feel the love and support of our Arab brothers in Qatar and across the world. Our players will achieve what we want while meeting our expectations in the tournament.”For many Moroccans, PSG player Achraf Hakimi and Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech are the favourites.“Indeed, both players are in good form and the duo will take our team to the next level. We support our team with our soul and body,” Laabi said.Fans said that Morocco is making steady progress while improving their performance after every match.“We have a good team of strikers, midfielders and defenders, whose performance level is going up,” said Dinia Illies. “Being Arabs, they have a feeling of being home.”Monday Souq Waqif, Katara – the Cultural Village and fan zones across Qatar witnessed Moroccan fans who celebrated with songs, dancing and cheering.“We got every reason to celebrate since our team has added an incredible achievement to its credit,” Laabi added.The Qatar News Agency (QNA) reported Monday that the Moroccan squad is entering the match with high spirits, after having topped Group F with seven points, surpassing Belgium, Croatia and Canada, to repeat their 1986 World Cup achievement."Being the only Arab representative in the knock-out stage, the Moroccan squad is looking tomorrow for their fifth victory in World Cup finals,” the QNA said. “Morocco's first victory in the World Cup came in the 1986 edition in Mexico, when they defeated Portugal 3-1.”“Then it was 12 years before they achieved their second victory by defeating Scotland 3-0 in the 1998 edition in France,” the QNA added. “And now they have defeated Belgium and Canada in the current World Cup edition."

Despite the Saudi Arabia team’s exit in the first round of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, fans continue flock to Al Bayt Al Saudi (Saudi House) to watch matches on big screens and explore Saudi’s cultural legacy and art exhibition.Located at the Sheraton Park, Al Bayt Al Saudi gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the Saudi identity and attachment towards football.The venue also houses cultural programmes daily, while the playgrounds allow children and adults to take part in sport activities.Al Bayt Al Saudi boasts of a total of 10 pavilions, in which 21 activities are held.An official said that these are aimed at enriching the fans’ experience in the World Cup.The fan zone hosts fans across the world from 12 noon to 12 midnight.“We receive many fans from Western countries, and they spend time here in Saudi dress with *Ghutra and *Iqal, the traditional headwears,” the official said.The area has dedicated pavilions representing various geographical zones of Saudi Arabia, featuring the cultural specialities of each zone.Many Saudi artists are part of the exhibition, which features live painting, weaving and calligraphy making.Visitors can also take a look at the calligraphy collection on show.“The exhibition here is an opportunity for the artists who can get international visitors here,” said artists Saleh al-Qarni. “The artists try to speak to the world about Saudi’s rich culture and love for the arts.”One of the highlights is a football exhibition on the achievements of Saudi Arabia in international tournaments.The photo exhibition features Saudi football legends.The activities area provides fans with the experience of playing football with the top players via Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality, in addition to the experience of getting photographed with members of the Saudi national team.The area also contains a special store for everything related to collectibles.There are cafes and restaurants that promote Saudi cuisine.

Fans of Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Tunisia are upbeat even though their national teams did not make it to the second round of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Some of the fans have decided to stay in Doha while enjoying and exploring the country while some left Doha on Thursday. Some fans are planning to go home in the coming days.“I am glad that our team performed well while making efforts to enter the second stage. Unfortunately, this is not our turn,” Mexican fan Jorge told Gulf Times. He left for Mexico Friday.Mexico and Saudi Arabia are among the countries that recorded high demand for the World Cup while Tunisia's match in the Education City Stadium on Wednesday witnessed thousands of fans cheering in red. Tunisia defeated France 1-0 but the victory wasn’t enough to help the team enter the second round. Mexico beat Saudi Arabia at Lusail Stadium on Wednesday but both countries failed to make it to the last 16.“We supported and cheered for our team and we will continue to do it. We are glad and proud that Saudi Arabia shined in the World Cup by defeating Argentina. We got enough reason to cheer up,” said one of the Saudi fans.Another fan Mohamed al-Ghanim said that they would have stayed some more days in Doha if Saudi Arabia made it to the second round.“Mexican fans believe that the team will bounce back soon. The next World Cup is coming home and our team will leave its mark through stunning performance,” said another Mexican fan Armando Castro.Some of the Mexican and Tunisian fans have decided to visit neighbouring countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Oman and Bahrain.

While extending a warm welcome reflecting Qatar’s spirit of hospitality, many Qataris have opened their camps and majlises to the World Cup fans so as to enlighten them on Arab values, customs, traditions and cultural heritage. Among the new trendsetters are Khaled al-Ajmi and Adel Lary, who have opened the doors of their majlis to football fans from various countries.Talking to Qatar TV, al-Ajmi, who receives guests from 4pm to 10pm, said that the initiative is aimed at introducing Qatari hospitality to the visitors. Al-Ajmi and Lary treat the guests with traditional Karak tea, Qahwa and Qatari sweets while acquainting them with the Qatari traditions and attire.“The guests enjoy the food, snacks and the Oud perfume,” Lary said. The fans, while thanking their Qatari hosts, said that they were pleased to spend the time at the majlis while getting to know the Qatari culture and heritage.Talking to local Arabic daily 'Arrayah', the Qatari citizens said they are keen to welcome the World Cup fans to their winter camps and majlis to get to know the Qatari people closely. They said the tourists’ contact with the Qataris during the tournament will show them on the ground to what extent the Arabs are a great nation and have a great heritage of morals, values, tolerance and acceptance of others.They noted that coexistence is closer and truer in conveying perceptions than the lies of the Western media while pointing out that the tourists will be surprised by the good reception, Arab magnanimity, generosity and hospitality. “They will witness great values ​​that are lost in the whole world except in the Arab nation,” they said.“Our hands are extended with affection for others,” said Ghaith al-Kuwari, a resident of Al Shamal. “I have been camping at Al Maroona Beach for 15 years. I welcome families, friends and cousins ​​throughout the camping period for fishing,” said the citizen who is ready to host the fans at his winter camp.“We welcome Qatar's guests to our camps to know us closely, and see our religious rituals, customs and traditions that we cherish, hoping that this will have a positive impact on visitors to Qatar. We cannot change anything in people's thoughts by force, but we can offer kind words, good reception, Arab hospitality, traditions and values ​​that express our civilisational identity," al-Kuwari explained.Abbas al-Khayat said that the campers are honoured to receive the guests of Qatar. “Welcome to Qatar. Qataris are able to change the wrong stereotype about the Arabs and the Gulf with their morals, good reception and honouring of their guests,” he said.Ali Mohamed Rabia said that the World Cup gives the tourists an opportunity to get acquainted with Arab values, Arab civilisation and Arab heritage closely. “The coexistence is closer and truer in conveying perceptions than the lies of the Western media,” he said.Yousef Rashid al-Mohannadi said: “Our majlis are open to any guest or passerby, and the hospitality is available for all visitors to the country,” He pointed out that the masses will see a reality different from what the Western media drew in their minds about Qatar."They will see for themselves the Qatar of goodness, the Qatar of love and tolerance, and the Qatar of generosity, morals and values," he added.

The range of services and facilities in place to ensure connectivity and mobility for specially-abled fans from across the world at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is winning praise for the country, especially for making the mega tournament an inclusive event.“I am able to explore Qatar by enjoying the matches and tourist destinations. I can do things on my own. Qatar’s transport network is fully equipped to meet the requirements of fans like me,” Hassan Ameera, a football fan from Jordan told Gulf Times. He has so far attended five matches while using metro, buses and taxis to reach his destinations.When Ameera was planning the trip to Doha, he was told that the most accessible World Cup edition awaits him in Qatar where all facilities are provided for specially-abled fans.“My experience in Qatar testifies the claims by the organisers. The buses are accessibility-friendly while the metro is easily accessible with lifts everywhere. I faced no challenge while travelling and accessing the stadiums,” he said.In an ideal atmosphere suitable for children with autism and neurobehavioural disorders, the World Cup stadiums are equipped with sensory rooms for people with intellectual disabilities. These help the children enjoy the matches in a safe space equipped with all advanced tools and devices.The stadium lobby is equipped with the latest assistive technology and educational and rehabilitation equipment. Besides, the facilities help blind and partially sighted fans listen to audio descriptive commentary in Arabic at World Cup matches. The service is accessible through a mobile application and available at all eight stadiums.Aasim Velimanna, a specially-abled football fan from India, narrated a similar tale of a great experience while attending the matches and travelling to the stadiums.“Inside and outside the stadiums, we were assisted by trained volunteers. Also, we were given rides from the stadium to the metro station,” said Asim’s father Saeed Yamani, adding that toilets are accessible while the staff and volunteers helpful.Parking was convenient and accessible, he had designated wheelchair seating with his son, and accessibility to the seat was also seamless. Mowasalat (Karwa) has provided a new fleet of wheelchair accessible taxis to expand the volume and availability of travel options for passengers with disabilities and limited mobility. These taxis have a dedicated drop-off point close to stadium entrances. Doha Metro has level access boarding with dedicated seating for people with limited mobility and spaces for wheelchair users. The shuttle buses have accessibility features and Mowaslat has a fleet of low-floor buses with ramped access for wheelchair users and wheelchair space inside.

For Mohsin Abdulla Bukshaisha, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is all about driving from stadium to stadium and watching matches, irrespective of the teams and the timing. The Qatari fan is on a mission to break the Guinness World Record of watching the most World Cup matches during an edition.“My plan is to watch more than 32 matches and break the current record of 31, set in South Africa. “This record is for Qatar. I wanted to contribute towards my country’s success in hosting a wonderful worldcup and set an almost unbreakable record,” Bukshaisha told Gulf Times in a chat. South African football fan Thulani Ngcobo watched 31 matches during the 2010 World Cup hosted by his home country. The Qatari fan had the idea for more than 10 years and he started to plan things after Qatar won the World Cup bid. The idea kept growing in his head since he felt that watching more than one match a day would be possible.Yesterday, Bukshaisha completed his 16th match at Al Janoub Stadium, between Cameroon and Serbia. The Qatari fan, who is an official with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), has bought tickets for 42 matches. Asked about how he manages to reach from one stadium to another, he said that he currently uses his car. “I am looking to switch to Uber or motorbike to make it fast and easy,” he said.The match between Saudi Arabia vs Argentina at Lusail Stadium on November 22 has so far turned out to be the favourite of Bukshaisha. He takes photos and videos in order to record them for the Guinness World Record. Also, he marks the number of the games on his cap after finishing the play. Bukshaisha says he is inspired by his kids, whom he barely meets these days. “I take home for them the complimentary flags as a gift,” he said. Also, he is grateful to his family members, friends, Qatari officials in the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) and in the heritage committee and the friends at Phiit Training Studio for their support to accomplish the mission.Taking cue from the inspiration he got from the current mission, Bukshaisha is planning to set the record of most matches in all World Cup tournaments. He thanked the current Guinness record holder Thulani Ngcobo since he inspired him. “I wish I had a little more support in moving around just like the ones accorded to the bloggers, who are given passes and parking privileges. If so, I could have attended more matches. Now I walk for about 15km per day which is really exhausting,” he added.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has turned out to be a dream fulfiller for Mohamed Aasim, who had been keenly waiting to attend the international event for long. Better known as Aasim Velimanna, the Indian boy, suffering from 90% physical disability, attended the inaugural match in addition to the Saudi Arabia - Argentina and Portugal-Ghana matches. Known for his determination and the ability to inspire, Aasim also met Ghanem al-Muftah, the Qatari icon, who shared the World Cup opening ceremony stage with Hollywood legend Morgan Freeman.“I am grateful that my dream came true and I could meet Ghanem al-Muftah while sharing the experiences and plans. I want to help and reach out to the children like me while trying to improve their lives,” Aasim told Gulf Times. Asim along with his father Saeed Yamani was received at al-Muftah’s residence at Al Wakra on Saturday.Aasim got the opportunity to watch the World Cup through a sponsorship after he expressed his wish during an event of Generation Amazing, the flagship FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 legacy programme, which he inaugurated back in Kerala.“I wanted to come to Qatar upholding and spreading the messages of the Aasim Velimanna Foundation while meeting people and attending events,” he said. Upholding the motto 'embracing the inclusive excellence,’ the foundation functions to promote social engagement and social equality to all children, as well as children with disabilities, and to shape a community educationally.Aasim, who wants to be a social activist, works to materialise his dream of inclusive education and excellence.The 15-year-old boy from Kozhikode district of the southern state of Kerala, was born without hands, one leg impaired, jawbone crooked, and having problems with his teeth, mouth and hearing. While moving about on a wheelchair with the help, Aasim has added several achievements to his credit.Earlier this year, he swam across the Periyar river in Kerala after two weeks of training, scripting an inspiring story. He is often invited to empowerment and excellence programmes across Kerala where he delivers speeches.Aasim has won several recognitions including the Inspiring Indian Award 2018 for his indomitable spirit as he campaigned to upgrade his school, the Ujjwala Balyam Award 2017 for his exceptional achievements in social activities and the Unicef Child Achiever Award for his achievements amid difficult situations in life. He was the International Conference on Parallel Processing (ICPP) 2021 finalist.In Doha, Asim attended various events while sharing his ideas and experiences as a young activist.