Qatar counts down to AFC Asian Cup and World Aquatics Championships

Having successfully hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar is gearing up to host two mayor sporting tournaments - the AFC Asian Cup 2023 and the World Aquatics Championships, the first to be held in the Middle East.

Set to kick off on Friday (12th January), and running until 10th February, the AFC Asian Cup demonstrates Qatar’s ongoing sporting legacy and showcases the ability to host large-scale events and welcome visitors from across the globe with its world-class sport and tourism infrastructure.

The 18th edition of the AFC Asian Cup, the quadrennial international football tournament organised by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), the 2023 edition will involve 24 national teams (expanded from 16 national sides for the 2019 edition in the United Arab Emirates) playing 51 matches across nine venues previously prepared for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

China was originally chosen as the host for the tournament but relinquished its hosting rights in May 2022 following the COVID-19 pandemic and due to its zero-COVID policy.

The total prize money for the competition is set at US$14.8 million with the winners in line to pick up US$5 million.

Advising that for visitors the nation will also offer an itinerary of things to do and see pre- and post- matches, Qatar Tourism Chairman, Saad bin Ali al-Kharji stated "we are pleased to host the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 (at which) visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy exciting times and explore many tourist attractions in Qatar.

"Qatar Tourism will offer a rich array of exciting events and festivals that will amuse both Qatar's residents and its visitors. The kickoff of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 coincides with the organisation of various festivals and events, including Shop Qatar, Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, Qatar International Food Festiva), Qatar Kite Festival, and International Horticultural Doha Expo 2023, which continues until late March.

“Additionally, there will be a series of musical and entertainment events that together form an unforgettable and exceptional experience.

"Over the past years, Qatar has successfully become a distinguished sports tourism destination, due to its advanced infrastructure, sports facilities, and medical facilities. This is in addition to the diversity of sports events it hosts.

“Qatar has demonstrated to the world its hospitality, exceptional organisation, complemented by the presence of luxurious tourist facilities and the picturesque landscapes that characterise the destination.”

The World Aquatics Championships 2024 - taking place from 2nd to 18th February - is set to make history as the first to be held in the Middle East.

Being staged at Doha’s Aspire Dome and Hamad Aquatic Centre with open water events at the Old Doha Port, the event will be hosting around 2,600 top athletes from over 190 countries, competing in 75 medal events across six aquatic sports: swimming (open water and artistic), diving and high diving, and water polo.

Looking forward to the event, General Director of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Khaleel Ibrahim Al Jaber and Sheikha Asma bint Thani Al Thani, Director of Marketing, Communications, Opening & Closing Ceremonies Committee recently provided media with an update on the overall progress.

Emphasising the LOC’s dedication to delivering an unparalleled experience for athletes and spectators, Al Jaber explained "we are committed to delivering a world-class event and experience for athletes and spectators alike.

"Preparations continue to run smoothly, and Qatar has proven itself to be a world leader in hosting sports events over the past decade, which is a legacy the World Aquatics Championships – Doha 2024 will continue. By embracing Qatar’s hospitality alongside sporting excellence, our event promises to leave a lasting impact on Qatar and the region."

Al Thani went on to state "this landmark event symbolises a significant milestone in our dedication to promoting sport in the region. As we get closer to hosting Doha 2024, we aim to continue educating and raising awareness about aquatic sports in our local communities.

"The LOC is also providing an opportunity for passionate individuals to get closer to the action and acquire valuable experiences through volunteering across diverse fields. We anticipate a showcase of unparalleled skill, dedication, cultural unity, and we encourage everyone to join us on our journey to making history.”

Images: The 50 metre pool at Doha’s Aspire Dome (top, credit: World Aquatics), the Lusail Stadium - venue for the final of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup (middle, credit: Shutterstock) and around 2,600 top athletes from over 190 countries will compete at the World Aquatics Championships (below, credit: Doha Organising Committee).