Non-ticketed fans can attend FIFA World Cup in Qatar after group stage

Non-ticketed fans can enter Qatar to 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, has become valid after midnight on December 2. However, fans will need to show proof of accommodation and pay QR500 in entry fee to obtain the Hayya Card and enter the country. Children under 12 will not be charged.

However, ticket holders for matches after December 2 are not required to pay the entry fee.

Qatar has launched a new Hayya Card option which will allow non-ticketed fans to enter the country and attend the @FIFAWorldCup after the group stage has concluded. Full story: https://t.co/SnxKIfwP49 pic.twitter.com/MuzmCfJjqw

— SC News (@roadto2022news) December 2, 2022

Fans who pay the entry fee and purchase the World Cup tickets later will not be eligible for a refund. After paying the QR500 fee and confirming their accommodation, visitors will receive an entry permit to Qatar via email.

Travellers must complete the Hayya Card application process to board a flight or enter through the Abu Samra land border without the entry permit. Hayya Card holders will be able to stay in Qatar until January 23, 2023

The Hayya Card is mandatory for FIFA World Cup fans, as it offers access to stadiums with a valid match ticket, entry to the FIFA Fan Festival and access to free public transport.

“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,” said Khalid Ali Al Mawlawi, deputy director general, marketing, communications and event experience, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy.

“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.”

Read: Qatar scraps Covid-19 test requirements for inbound visitors ahead of World Cup