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- CRA achieves outstanding success in monitoring radio spectrum during the World Cup
Doha, December 17, 2022: The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has achieved outstanding success in devoting all its resources to ensure that, throughout the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, all stakeholders operate various radiocommunications applications, equipment and broadcasting systems as required and without interruption due to any radio interference. During large-scale events, like the World Cup, a wide range of radio applications and a significant number of radio equipment are used within a limited area, making it challenging to meet all radio spectrum requirements and ensure continuity of communication without radio interference. CRA has been eager over the previous years to develop its radio spectrum monitoring system, in line with the significance of hosting this historic event in the country. In order to achieve this, it has enhanced and upgraded several fixed and mobile monitoring stations and added sensor stations in several areas close to the official tournament venues. In addition, three months before the tournament kicked off, CRA conducted proactive field scan measurements, that required nearly 6,500 working hours, for monitoring all critical radio frequency bands to make sure they are radio interference free and to find suitable alternative for those affected, prior to the start of the tournament. To monitor the radio spectrum during the tournament, CRA relied on state-of-the-art systems and technologies, employing a system that can monitor the radio spectrum up to 40 Gigahertz (GHz) and efficiently locate the source of the interference. Additionally, CRA used its supporting system to monitor the unauthorized usage of drones. Furthermore, CRA’s technically specialized teams were available during all matches, with state-of-the-art Spectrum Analyzers and Automatic Direction-finding Receivers, to help in validating the source of radio interference, if it occurs. Throughout the tournament, CRA did not record any radio interference cases on the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) operations, while a limited number of secondary cases were recorded on other services beyond the scope of FIFA's operational activities. CRA swiftly took the necessary corrective measures in this regard.
- Qatar Fashion United by CR Runway concludes with over 150 Global Designers and Performances
Qatar, December 17, 2022 – In a celebration of fashion, music and culture, Qatar Fashion United By CR Runway, presented by Qatar Creates and CR Runway, showcased over 150 designers from six continents and 50 countries, featuring renowned names in fashion and regional and international music superstars. The mammoth show in front of a sell-out crowd of more than 20,000 spectators at Ras Abu Aboud 974 Stadium last night, two days before the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ finals. Conceived by Qatar Museums Chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, curated by French editor and visionary stylist, Carine Roitfeld, and directed by CR Runway CEO, Vladimir Restoin Roitfeld, Qatar Fashion United by CR Runway presented a dazzling array of looks from both established and up-and-coming designers. 21 Qatar-based brands presented by M7 – Qatar’s creative hub for entrepreneurship in fashion, design, and technology – have participated in the event. Speaking at the sidelines of the event, Her Excellency Sheikha Mayassa said: “Qatar Fashion United by CR Runway celebrated music, fashion, art and architecture in the unique 974 stadium. An accumulation of years of hard work, QFU brought together people from all corners of the world, demonstrating the true power of culture — bringing together disciplines of fashion, music, art, heritage and football to connect people and transcend borders. There could have been no better time to celebrate fashion and football than now, in the final days of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and I am so proud of all we have achieved - especially the Qatari and regional designers whose creativity and talent will lead the way for the future of fashion in the region.” All proceeds from the show will benefit Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that provides educational opportunities to underserved children and youth and empowers women to become active members of their communities.
- Fans praise ‘amazing’ accessibility experience at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Before every kick-off at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, two fans in the accessibility seats have been invited to meet their heroes and be a part of the pre-match ceremony. It is a small gesture – but one which means an incredible amount for those lucky enough to experience it. Ten-year-old Aiden Bell was chosen to line up with England ahead of their quarter-final match against France at Al Bayt Stadium – and for his dad, George, seeing his son next to Three Lions captain Harry Kane was a mind-blowing moment. “It was amazing – words can’t do justice to how proud that made me. Watching the national anthem at a World Cup quarter-final and seeing Aiden there – it was unbelievable,” said George, an accountant who has lived in Qatar since 2017. He added: “The accessibility at this World Cup is absolutely amazing. From the moment you arrive, everything is brilliant – the parking, the security, the volunteers – everyone is so helpful. Everything is very clearly signposted, and the facilities are very good. Aiden loves coming to games – this is his third so far – and we are having a great time.” Ahmed Al Bahar, from Kuwait, was chosen to be on the pitch for the France team ahead of kick-off – and he was full of praise for the accessibility features of the tournament. “This is the number one experience of my life,” said Ahmed. “It was a dream. On the pitch, I couldn’t believe I was there. It’s like you’re somewhere else. It’s amazing.” He continued: “This is one of the best accessibility experiences I have seen. From the moment I got to the stadium, everyone was so helpful. The entrance is wonderful and there are many rest rooms – which is a big deal for disabled fans. The seating is beyond amazing, and I thank everyone organizing this event – it has been incredible.” The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) and FIFA have successfully delivered the most accessible FIFA World Cup in history. The tournament has included a vast range of accessibility features, including five types of accessible tickets, sensory rooms, audio descriptive commentary for blind and partially sighted fans in Arabic and English, mobility assistance services in the last mile and inside stadiums, and facilities to ensure the safety and comfort of all fans. Tournament preparations were supported by the Accessibility Forum, which was launched by the SC in 2016 and meant disabled fans contributed to the development of facilities and projects to ensure this edition of the FIFA World Cup catered for every section of society. Khalid Al Naama, Executive Director, Community Engagement & Commercial Development, said: “From the very start, our goal was to host the most accessible FIFA World Cup in history – and we are beyond proud to see our plans being delivered successfully." “The feedback we have received from members of the accessibility community has been excellent and we are happy that our commitment in this area is helping to drive the accessibility agenda in Qatar and across the region. We are sure this will prove to be one of the enduring legacies of the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world.” Hala Ousta, Senior Diversity & Accessibility Manager, FIFA, said: “Accessibility and inclusivity have been key principles of delivering the tournament. They have been embedded across different strategies and can be seen at all eight stadiums – including infrastructure, accessible parking, five types of accessible seating, accessible toilets and sensory rooms. “Our accessibility work is complemented by an exclusive programme of randomly selecting fans, getting them to enjoy the pre-match ceremony on the pitch and lining up alongside the players and officials. It is something to celebrate the most accessible tournament we’ve had to-date.”
- ‘Seeing fans pose and take photos with my artwork is amazing’
Graffiti artist Michael Conjusta is creating murals outside Qatar 2022 stadiums Graffiti artist Michael Conjusta is impressing football fans from across the globe with his eye-catching murals. The 44-year-old Filipino, a long-term Qatar resident, has been creating artwork as part of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy’s (SC) Cultural Activation Programme, which is hosting talent during the FIFA World Cup™ to complement the festive atmosphere in the country. Conjusta has been creating colourful murals at Al Bayt, Lusail, Al Janoub and Al Thumama stadiums and the Doha Corniche. He says he is honoured to be part of the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world. We caught up with Conjusta to find out more about his creations and his World Cup experience so far. Tell us about yourself. I am originally from the Philippines, but I’ve been living in Qatar since 1998. I’m a painter, interior decorator and face and body painter. Before I moved to Qatar as an interior decorator, I was still studying architecture. I decided to make the move for a better living opportunity. I also had dreams of becoming a doctor one day, but here I am! How and when did you start performing as a professional artist? I first started drawing when I was eight years old. I really enjoyed it from the start. I’m still progressing as a professional graffiti artist as I’m still exploring different techniques and learning about this art form. Describe your art and the passion behind it. What I create is a mix of graffiti and murals. Graffiti is more about spontaneous writing, lettering, sketching and scribbles, while murals are usually larger and more intentional drawings that could vary in complexity. I find this type of art to be challenging because I have to apply what is on my mind and make it instantly work on the surface. During my live art performances, I am conscious of the fans and competing teams, so I like to include elements from the matches or the tournament, like La’eeb. I like to think that I’m a positive person and aim to reflect that in my work, give my best and enjoy the end result with fans. How has your World Cup experience been so far? I am really enjoying contributing to the art and culture celebrations, especially when people praise my work and ask for a selfie. I feel like a superstar! I am always eager to meet new people and make new friends. What has been your favourite part of the tournament so far? My favourite part is after every game when fans of the winning team leave the game cheering, especially in the metro. It feels like a fiesta. How do you feel about performing at the first FIFA World Cup in the region? Really happy. After living in Qatar for the past 24 years, I consider this country to be my second home and I feel proud of what they have been able to achieve. I believe that it’s my chance to show gratitude to Qatar for welcoming me and hosting me all these years. How do you feel about being a part of World Cup entertainment? It feels amazing! Everyone is proud of me, especially my family and friends back home in the Philippines. Seeing fans pose and take photos with my artwork has also made me feel very special. It really means a lot. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to showcase my talent to everyone visiting from around the world. It’s amazing exposure for me as an artist. Which team are you supporting? My all-time favourites, Argentina!
- ‘I joke that I have more World Cup participations than Messi’
Meet the 76-year-old volunteering legend from Germany who is supporting Qatar’s FIFA World Cup™ A 76-year-old volunteer from Germany is participating in his fifth FIFA World Cup™ in Qatar. Hubert Bihler is overjoyed to be supporting the first edition of the tournament in the Middle East and Arab world. Bihler is one of more than 20,000 volunteers involved in this year’s World Cup. He is supporting media operations at Stadium 974 – one of eight state-of-the-art tournament venues and the first fully-demountable stadium in FIFA World Cup history. Here, we caught up with Bihler to learn more about his experience in Qatar. Tell us about yourself. How did you start volunteering? I am from Dunningen in the Black Forest region, close to France and Switzerland. I have been a football enthusiast all my life. I worked as a sports and mathematics teacher, but was always involved in football. I was a player and coach. Football was always a part of my life and after I retired, I began to volunteer in mega events. My first experience was the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. From there, I fell in love with volunteering. Tell us about your previous volunteering experiences. I have volunteered at five FIFA World Cups: in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and now in 2022. I was also a volunteer at the 2011 Women’s World Cup. I sometimes joke that I have more World Cup participations than Messi. What does your role as a media operations volunteer entail? We support the smooth experience of media who are here to cover the tournament. Recently I managed over 130 photographers who were assigned to capture the action during Mexico versus Poland. What is unique about this experience in Qatar? This is actually my first volunteering experience in the Arab world and so far, the generosity and hospitality of people in Qatar have impressed me. It’s all about the encounters we have. Volunteering enriches my life in a great manner. What motivated you to become a Qatar 2022 volunteer? The 2018 FIFA World Cup was actually going to be my last event as a volunteer, but my wife unexpectedly passed away. I wanted another challenge so I decided to apply to volunteer in Qatar. How has your volunteer experience been so far? I have experienced many memorable moments here in Qatar. A big one was seeing volunteers from all parts of the world recognise me from other FIFA events. This World Cup has a wonderful, friendly atmosphere. It’s nice to see fans celebrating in a peaceful manner, with respect for one another. Which team are you supporting? Now that my beloved Germany didn’t qualify for the round of 16, I will be supporting Brazil. They have a great team and I also have many Brazilian friends.
- BOC files raps vs forwarders behind abandoned balikbayan boxes
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs filed criminal complaints against consolidators and deconsolidators who abandoned some 7,000 Balikbayan boxes meant for the families of Overseas Filipino Workers. To recall, the BOC found in October that 32 containers of balikbayan boxes were abandoned by consolidators and de-consolidators from August 2021 to July 2022 containing 6,693 balikbayan boxes. In a statement, the bureau said that BOC data and complaints received from OFWs, the consolidators following consolidators were found to have abandoned Balikbayan boxes: All Win Cargo LLC Island Kabayan Express Cargo LLC Carlos Martin Guinto Co. GM Multi Services Anhar Al Mawalah Trading Their deconsolidators include CMG Int'l Movers and Cargo Services, Cargoflex Haulers Corp., FBV Forwarders and Logistics, Inc. and Etmar Int'l Logistics. “For our fellow OFWs who have been victims of the said companies, you can contact the BOC to strengthen the cases against the said exploitative consolidators and deconsolidators,” the BOC said. Earlier, the BOC also said it was looking into blacklist such forwarders, consolidators and de-consolidators. It also reminded OFWs to email batas@customs.gov.ph with [BALIKBAYAN BOXES] as the email subject and include their contact details. Source: PhilStar
- Singing star Tamer Hosny to perform live in Doha
Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism, in association with Alchemy Project are glad to announce that Arab Legend Tamer Hosny is coming to perform live in Doha. The concert will take place on December 13,2022 in Doha Golf Club. Event is sponsored by Ooredoo, Coca-Cola and Qatar Duty Free, and held under Qatar Live 2022 series of events. Tamer Hosny is a pop singer, actor, composer, lyricist, director, producer and novelist. His artistic career began in 2002. Extensive enthusiasm, hard work, and passion in terms of music and acting made him within 5 years the most promising celebrity/singer in the Middle East & Africa. His masterpiece in music is magically amazing. His songs possess a strong convincing power, dominated deeply over mind and emotions from fans all over the world. The concert’s age restrictions are 21+. Guests must present a valid ID at the entrance. Tickets start from $75, available on Tixbox.com. “We are thrilled to host an Arab Legend Tamer Hosny. His show is one of the immense live sparking performances in Arab world and we are honored to delight audience and see excitement of amazing Doha”, said Mac.s.Far, CEO of Alchemy Project. About Tamer Hosny Tamer Hosny is a pop singer, actor, composer, lyricist, director, producer and novelist. His artistic career began in 2002. Extensive enthusiasm, hard work, and passion in terms of music and acting made him within 5 years the most promising celebrity/singer in the Middle East & Africa. His albums and films (both past and present) have achieved best sales and wills. His masterpiece in music is magically amazing. His songs possess a strong convincing power, dominated deeply over mind and emotions from fans all over the world. His lyrics are remarkable, mainly surprising most of the time; as he introduces innovative phrases to make it simply unique and meaningful. His wide variety of audience members love his music, and support his record-breaking best sales. As a movie actor, his acting is very spontaneous. He performs every challenging and diverse role in very realistic ways. Tamer enjoys writing his own movie scripts, utilizing his creative mind. His movies have achieved mostly ‘box office hits’ within the Middle East. International Collaborations "Bokra-Tomorrow" Charity Single Tamer sang Bokra Tomorrow (A Better You, Better Me) a charity single that was released on 11/11/2011 at 11:11PM, along with Shakira, Rim Banna, Akon, Diana Karazon, Marwan Khoury, Latifa, Souad Massi, Hani Mitwassi, Saber El Roba3i, Kathem El Saher, Wa3ed, Sherine and other Arab Artists. The single will distribute the proceeds of its donations to various organisations, institutions and charities with arts and culture programs. The eight minute song was written by Majida Al-Roumi, and produced by Quincy Jones and RedOne. Duet with Shaggy Tamer Hosny has recorded a new duet song with Shaggy, named "Smile". The song, written and composed by Tamer Hosny, will be distributed all over the world. The music video has been released at the beginning of 2012; the music video was shot in New York City, and it has achieved huge success; it has achieved more than one million views in only 3 days on YouTube, and for this exceptional growth rate, YouTube awarded the music video a trending medal. Duet with Snoop Dogg Tamer Hosny has released a duet song with Snoop Dogg, Named Si L Sayed. It was released in 2012. Tamer Hosny and Snoop Dogg shot the music video in Los Angeles, the music video has achieved a big success Around the world Music Collaboration with Akon Tamer Hosny has recorded one of his best hits with the international singer Akon in 2013 the music video was filmed in Miami USA on May 2013. And have achieved a very big success in the Middle East and internationally. Duet song with Jason derulo Tamer Hosny was chooser by Coca-Cola to sing the official World Cup song in 2018 Representing Egypt in a duet song with Jason derulo. He was chosen to sing the official song for the CAF u23 in 2019 He was chosen to sing the official song of the World Cup for the special needs along with Avril Lavigne and Luis Fonsi in 2019. Winning a world Guinness record for the most contribution to a bulletin board was achieved by Tamer Hosny (Egypt) and presented to him by his fans in marina mall Abu Dahbi on December 6 2019 as in 2017 he helped Egypt to enter Guinness records with the biggest blood donation campaign in the world.
- Fans’ Cup unites football lovers at Qatar 2022
Poland defeat Serbia in final at FIFA Fan Festival™ in Al Bidda Park Football fans representing all 32 qualified nations for Qatar 2022 took part in the Fans’ Cup – held on the sidelines of the FIFA World Cup™. The four-day tournament, held at the FIFA Fan Festival™ in Al Bidda Park, was organised by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) as part of its fan engagement activities. The five-a-side tournament reflected the same format as Qatar 2022, with the teams drawn into the same eight groups. All participants were nationals of their respective countries. This included hosts Qatar, who reached the quarter-finals of the tournament before falling to Poland. The final was an all-European affair between Poland and Serbia, with the Poles lifting the trophy after a convincing 4-0 victory. The trophy presentation took place on the main stage at the FIFA Fan Festival, with Qatar Legacy Ambassadors Cafu and Ronald de Boer handing out the silverware. Lifting the trophy was a moment to savour for Poland’s Adrian Dalek. He said: “I feel amazing right now because we’ve won the World Cup for fans. It was a fantastic tournament and it is very nice to be here in Qatar for it. Though it was a fans’ cup, there were some very good teams here and a high level of football was played.” “The companionship we have had with all the cultures we have met here and the chance to meet new people has been extraordinary,” said Serbia goalkeeper, Bogdan Sokolović. “I think Qatar raised the bar for the next World Cup by staging this tournament. It was really wonderful.” “Fans are central to the success of the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world, so we were thrilled to host the first 32-team Fans’ Cup at a FIFA World Cup, which we believe created an exciting atmosphere while uniting fans from across the globe through their shared passion for the beautiful game. We hope the legacy of this historic tournament, delivered for the first time in Qatar, sees fan tournaments at all major football events in the future,” said Samantha Sifah, the SC’s Fan Engagement Manager. Click here to find out more about the Fans' Cup. Fans interested in attending Qatar 2022 should click here for the latest tickets, accommodation and Hayya Card information.
- FIFA Fan Festival™ at Al Bidda Park welcomes 1,000,000 fans
Milestone visitor Haytham Mokhtar wins two tickets to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ final The FIFA Fan Festival™ at Al Bidda Park has welcomed more than 1 million fans since opening on the eve of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. To celebrate the milestone, the lucky 1 millionth fan received a pair of tickets to the FIFA World Cup™ final at Lusail Stadium on 18 December. Local resident Haytham Mokhtar, originally from Egypt, and his best friend Sara, won the tickets, along with an official match ball signed by football legends. “I cannot believe that I am so lucky to be the 1 millionth guest at the FIFA Fan Festival,” said Haytham. “Sara and I were coming here to have a good time and shortly after, I was standing on the main stage in front of thousands of people with a football signed by Cafu and Ronald de Boer, and with tickets to the final. It is just unbelievable!” Haytham knows exactly which teams he would like to see in the final as he is hoping for a battle of the legends: Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo. “Apart from my own team, Egypt, I also cheer for Brazil. But, this time, I am wishing for an Argentina versus Portugal final so that the two great legends, Messi and Ronaldo, can play against each other in a World Cup final.” After spending the day at the festival, Haytham said: “My highlight was the FIFA Museum. I enjoyed seeing the outstanding collection of World Cup shirts, dating back to the first tournament. There is a great atmosphere here, with many people from all over the world, and so many different activities and music.” Situated within walking distance of the Doha Corniche, the FIFA Fan Festival is a central meeting point for fans to celebrate their passion for the beautiful game. The 145,000m² facility boasts a 40,000 capacity and has welcomed an average of 70,000 visitors a day during the tournament. The FIFA Fan Festival screens every FIFA World Cup™ match on giant screens and provides free entertainment with some of the most famous music stars from across the globe. The festival is open every day, from 4 PM to 2 AM, catering for every fan with its unique football and entertainment programme featuring local and international artists such as Diplo, Kizz Daniel, Nora Fatehi, Trinidad Cardona and Calvin Harris. In addition, for the first time ever, the FIFA Fan Festival has an official anthem: ‘Tukoh Taka’, from acclaimed music stars Nicki Minaj, Maluma and Myriam Fares. FIFA Sound – the game-changing initiative that combines the universal languages of music and football – collaborated with Universal Arabic Music and Republic Records on the hit song. The week of its release, the record reached number one on iTunes and was the most-watched music video on YouTube. Tukoh Taka is available to download here, and fans can watch the music video here.
- Fans without tickets can attend FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ after group stage
New ‘Early December’ feature now available on Hayya Card platform Qatar has launched a new Hayya Card option which will allow non-ticketed fans to enter the country and attend the FIFA World Cup™ after the group stage has concluded. The ‘Early December’ feature, which allows fans without tickets to apply for a Hayya Card, will be valid after midnight on 2 December. Fans will need to show proof of accommodation and pay an entry fee of QAR 500 to obtain the Hayya Card and enter Qatar. Children under 12 will not be charged. The Hayya Card is mandatory for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ fans. It provides access to stadiums with a valid match ticket, entry to the FIFA Fan Festival™ and free public transport. Khalid Ali Al Mawlawi, Deputy Director General, Marketing, Communications & Event Experience, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, said: “It’s been a wonderful tournament so far. We’ve welcomed hundreds of thousands of fans from across the world for an unrivalled festival of football and exchange of cultures. “As we move into the knockout stages of the tournament, we’re delighted to offer the chance for more fans to visit Qatar and experience the special atmosphere of the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world.” Fans have plenty of entertainment options away from the stadiums in Qatar, including the FIFA Fan Festival at Al Bidda Park, the 6km Corniche Activation and a vast array of live music, cultural experiences and fan zones. Fans who wish to apply for the Early December Hayya Card feature should note the following: Ticket holders for matches after 2 December will not be required to pay QAR 500 Fans who pay the QAR 500 entry fee and purchase FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tickets later will not be eligible for a refund After paying the QAR 500 entry fee and confirming their accommodation, fans will receive an entry permit to the State of Qatar via email. Fans are advised not to travel until completing the Hayya Card application process as they will not be allowed to board a flight or enter through the Abu Samra land border without the entry permit Hayya Card holders are able to stay in Qatar until 23 January 2023 Click here to apply for a Hayya Card. Download the Hayya to Qatar 2022 mobile application: Apple / Google Play/ Huawei
- Generation Amazing Youth Festival 2022 a resounding success
More than 300 young people learn key life skills on sidelines of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ The Generation Amazing Foundation, a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ social and human legacy initiative, has successfully concluded its fourth annual youth festival and the second phase of its Goal 22 international school-exchange programme. The Generation Amazing Youth Festival 2022 served as the in-person phase of the year-long Goal 22 project and brought together more than 300 international students in Doha to teach them football for development practices that emphasise and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through workshops and activities, exploring topics such as sports diplomacy, sustainability, diversity and inclusion, leadership, mental health and more. Goal 22 began in October with virtual sessions and will continue in 2023. The youth involved represented each of the 32 competing nations at Qatar 2022 and will be tasked with sharing the knowledge gained in their schools and communities. The festival kicked off on 17 November with a celebration of Generation Amazing positively impacting 1 million people across the globe and becoming a foundation. Special remarks were made to more than 600 guests by H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, and Chairman, Generation Amazing Foundation; Gianni Infantino, FIFA President; Nasser Al Khori, Executive Director, Generation Amazing; David Beckham, Generation Amazing Ambassador; and Ryan Reynolds, Hollywood actor and co-owner of Wrexham FC. The keynote was given by Syrian-American composer, Malek Jandali, founder of ‘Pianos for Peace’. It featured the premiere of sports docuseries ‘Chasing Dreams’ – which was supported by Generation Amazing – and a surprise performance from The Triplets Ghetto Kids. “Our aim is to help people develop crucial global citizenship skills while supporting capacity building through the power of football,” said Al Khori. “We want to offer much more than technical support to bring about social change to disadvantaged and marginalised communities.” “This requires educational and theoretical understanding in addition to cultural awareness and exposure that is best gained through peer-to-peer interaction, and we’re very proud to provide that in an unprecedent way, adding and contributing to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 legacy through our Goal 22 programme,” added Al Khori. “The Generation Amazing Youth Festival, in particular, provides an opportunity for many young adults, and even their educators and our invited delivery facilitators, to be introduced to innovative sport for development frameworks, gain insight into their opportunities and challenges, and learn about new perspectives and cultures while expanding their own potential. “We developed the Goal 22 programme so that participants gain exposure that is tangible and expansive outside what can be attained on the pitch or in a classroom, while establishing and reinforcing the universal values adopted by the United Nations, such as fair play, living together, enhancing understanding between peoples and cultures, and promoting the values of tolerance and respect.” Since 2019, Generation Amazing has hosted its youth festival on the sidelines of major sporting events, such as the FIFA Club World Cup™ and FIFA Arab Cup™. This year’s festival included workshops and panels that were organised and facilitated by more than 30 partner organisations. These included discussions on women in sport, creating positive impact through sport, sustainability, climate change and inclusive leadership through sport, among others. As part of the festival programme, youth participated in an inclusive football activation called the ‘All-In Tournament’ – a mini World Cup – and had the opportunity to celebrate cross-cultural interaction and diversity at the closing cultural ceremony. In addition to local and international musical acts and performances, students performed their own pieces to showcase their cultures and traditions. The ceremony included remarks from Salah Khaled, Director of the UNESCO Office for the Arab States of the Gulf and Yemen, a strategic partner of the festival. Khaled said: “Thanks to Generation Amazing, young leaders have been able to take part in this innovative ecosystem to promote social change, healthy lifestyles and sport for all. These initiatives are of paramount importance as they create space for dialogue while fostering youth action and ensuring recognition of young voices and projects. “UNESCO is honoured to partner with Generation Amazing in this festival, that embodies social responsibility by supporting youth in fighting inequality, contributing to sustainable development and building peace. I am proud to see that what we do together today will contribute to shaping peaceful, just and sustainable futures tomorrow. I am delighted to see how youth celebrate the power of sport in a changing world.” During the tournament, participants had the opportunity to engage in dialogue with Beckham and various FIFA World Cup Ambassadors and stars, including Younis Mahmoud, Nadia Nadim, Honey Thaljieh, Ali Al Habsi, Javier Mascherano, Yaya Toure and Mohammed Saadon Al Kuwari. Guests were also treated to Qatar 2022 match tickets, facilitated by the Generation Amazing Foundation. On the last day of the festival, officials and delegates from Qatar, Canada, Mexico and the US attended to observe and participate in an inclusive football activation aimed to recognise the success of the festival and share knowledge about key learnings with the next hosts of the FIFA World Cup™. The delegation of high-level officials included, H.E. Sheikha Hind Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation; H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, and Chairman, Generation Amazing Foundation; H.E. Salah bin Ghanim Al Ali, Qatar’s Minister of Sports and Youth; Harjit Sajjan, Canada’s Minister of International Development; Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs; and Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State. Festival strategic partners included the Ministry of Sports and Youth, Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Qatar Football Association, Qatar Foundation, Qatar Museums, FIFA Foundation and UNESCO. Sponsors included Qatar Airways, Visit Qatar, Qatar Fund for Development, Qetaifan Projects, QLM Insurance, SDIsports and Hublot.
- The FIFA World Cup in Qatar is an achievement for the entire Arab world’
Qatar Legacy Ambassadors see the tournament as a watershed moment for the region The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ is in full swing and fans across the globe are enjoying a festival of football at eight state-of-the-art stadiums. For Qatar Legacy Ambassadors Ahmad Khalil, Ibrahim Khalfan and Adel Khamis, the tournament is proving a huge success for the entire Middle East and Arab world. “Everyone who has made their way to Qatar has been amazed by this once-in-a-lifetime festival. From beautiful stadiums to wonderful cultural experiences, fans are able to immerse themselves in our signature hospitality and enjoy world-class football,” said Khamis, a former attacking midfielder for the Qatar national team. Many of the incredible venues showcase local culture, including the magnificent Al Bayt Stadium, with its structure inspired by the tents used by nomadic peoples. “The FIFA World Cup in Qatar is an achievement for the entire Arab world. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate our culture, while showing off our football pedigree. For far too long, this region has been stereotyped without us having the opportunity to show the world that we are talented, determined and peace-loving people. This World Cup has given the opportunity to change all that,” said Khalfan, considered to be one of Qatar’s greatest wingers of all time. A total of four Arab teams are taking part in the tournament, with hosts Qatar competing in a World Cup for the first time. The Maroons were drawn in Group A alongside the Netherlands, Ecuador and Senegal. And although they were knocked out in the group stage, Khalil sees the tournament as an important milestone for local football. “Even though Qatar’s results were not what we hoped for, the World Cup will be yet another milestone for the sport’s growth in the country. It will be a memorable experience that will motivate a new generation of players to play on the biggest football stage in the world. Qatar’s footballing future is bright – and this tournament will be a huge catalyst for further success,” said Khalil, who led Qatar to the Arabian Gulf Cup in 1992. He added: “What we have achieved goes beyond football. It’s an achievement that brought together our talent and determination, and embodies our vision to build a modern nation that celebrates humanity and excellence.” Fans interested in attending Qatar 2022 should click here for the latest tickets, accommodation and Hayya Card information.