Qatar is set to deliver a breathtaking experience for all football fans as it hosts the 2022 FIFA world cup. The magnificent structure of the Khalifa International Stadium has been refurbished and is ready to host fans.
This Venue is one of the stadiums designed to host multiple sporting events in the country. Therefore, it is one of the country's largest and most elegant arenas. Nevertheless, continue reading this article if you want to know about this beautiful stadium.
About the Khalifa International Stadium
Contents
Khalifa was built in 1976 to honour the reputation of Qatar's Former Emir Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani. Moreover, the Stadium can be described as the past, present and future of sport in Qatar.
Furthermore, it is located right at the heart of the country in its capital, Doha. The stadium is also surrounded by many sport-related amenities, making it a part of the Doha city sports complex.
The Khalifa Stadium is currently a 40,000-seater capacity stadium. However, as of 2005, the stadium was a 20,000-seater. For the World Cup, additional 12,000 seats are to be added, which would increase its capacity to over 50,000.
Renovation of the Stadium
Over the years, the Khalifa International Stadium has undergone significant changes from time to time. As the country's national stadium, there is a constant need for upgrades on Khalifa.
These changes would provide an enjoyable experience for Qataris. As a result, it first underwent a significant renovation in 2005 in preparation for the 2006 Asian games.
The latest reconstruction of the Khalifa International Stadium came in 2014 after Qatar won the bid to host the world cup. Therefore, Khalifa needed a crucial upgrade to meet the FIFA stadium's requirements.
These improvements were made by Qatar Football Association between 2014 to 2017. Since its successful renovation, it has hosted significant football and athletics competitions.
In the two cases of renovations, the project has been awarded to BESIX – an Australian construction company. Furthermore, the 2014 renovation saw the plans designed by GHD Architects. Engineers estimated the cost for the refurbishment to amount to 307 million dollars.
Key Features of the Stadium
Like the other stadiums hosting the 2022 world cup in Qatar, the Khalifa Stadium has set a benchmark. However, its most significant feature is its roof which covers over 70 per cent of the stadium.
The roof is designed with EFTE and PTFE materials. Although it is not retractable like other stadiums, it can still provide sufficient shade for fans.
However, the distinctive feature of the Khalifa Stadium is its two roof arches. These arches are located on the east and west side of the stadium, which is over 120metre high. Furthermore, it is also fitted with cooling units that span around the stadium.
The cooling system can drop the temperature down to 24 degrees during matches. In addition, the latest renovation also saw the installation of LED pitch lights and a digital floodlight. These both provide an out-of-world experience during evening games.
2022 World Cup Fixtures and Kick-Off times at The Khalifa International Stadium
The Khalifa International Stadium has hosted many great players in football, such as the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner – Lionel Messi. Furthermore, it was the venue for the International friendly between long-time rivals Argentina and Brazil. Moreover, it has hosted many tournaments like the FIFA club world cup, the Asian games and more.
There are a total of 8 matches to be played at the Khalifa Stadium. Six from the group stage, one from the quarter-final and lastly, it would be the venue for the third place play-off.
The stadium will host top contenders like Spain, who would be hoping to recreate their 2010 success. It would also feature England, who have been trying desperately to get their hands on the trophy. Below are the fixtures to be played at the stadium.
Date Matches Time(Local)
| Match | Date | UK kick-off Time |
|---|---|---|
| Netherlands vs Ecuador |
Friday, 25th Nov |
19:00 |
| Ecuador vs Senegal |
Tuesday, 29th Nov |
18:00 |
| England vs Iran |
Monday, 21st Nov |
16:00 |
| Germany vs Japan |
Wednesday, 23rd Nov |
16:00 |
| Japan vs Spain |
Thursday, 1st Dec |
22:00 |
| Croatia vs Canada |
Sunday, 27th Nov |
19:00 |
Significance of the Stadium in Qatar Sports Development
Being the oldest stadium in Qatar, the Khalifa Stadium can be seen as a symbol of sports development in the country. In addition, It is located within the Aspire sports zone. This area houses many facilities like an aquatics games centre and an indoor sports complex.
Furthermore, sports amenities like the specialist women's sports centre and the Aspire academy are available. Moreover, these facilities are necessary for cultivating the next generation of Qatar’s sporting talents.
Therefore, with these facilities all surrounding the Khalifa International Stadium, its hype is worth it. Moreover, it shows how vital the stadium is to developing sports activities in Qatar.
FAQs
Where can I go Shopping Around the Stadium?
Many shopping stores surround the Khalifa International Stadium within and outside the stadium. However, the biggest is the Villagio Mall, located in Aspire park.
The mall has over 200 stores with many popular UK, US and European brands. Furthermore, should you choose to have fun and relax, the mall contains an indoor theme park. The park offers an Olympic size ice hockey rink, a bowling rink and roller coaster rides.
What are the Closest Hotels to the Khalifa International Stadium?
One thing that is certain about Doha is the number of quality hotels in the city. Hotels like the Doha Torch will be ready to receive fans worldwide if you want to live close to the stadium.
The hotel is located in the 980ft tall Aspire tower, which overlooks the Khalifa International Stadium. Furthermore, it has a revolving restaurant that gives you a 360-degree view of Doha city.
Another hotel worth mentioning is the Al Aziziyah Boutique hotel. It has an old English luxurious design, making it a beautiful spectacle for the eyes. In addition, it supports the English language, and staffs are available 24/7 to attend to customers.