Doha, Qatar – The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 Fan Zones are proving to be a significant draw, welcoming tens of thousands of supporters and fostering a vibrant atmosphere of cultural exchange and community spirit. Located adjacent to the six tournament venues, these zones offer a diverse range of experiences beyond the matches themselves, showcasing local businesses and artistic talent. The event is currently underway, with fan zones operating on all match days.
The initiative aims to enhance the overall tournament experience and provide a platform for regional celebration. According to organizers, the Fan Zones are designed to be inclusive spaces where fans can connect, enjoy local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of the Arab world. This builds on Qatar’s established reputation for hosting major sporting events with a strong emphasis on cultural integration.
Celebrating Culture at the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 Fan Zones
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) has prioritized supporting local entrepreneurs as part of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025. More than 77 food and beverage businesses have been granted free space within the Fan Zones, providing them with valuable exposure to a large and engaged audience. This support is intended to stimulate economic activity and highlight the culinary diversity of the region.
Hassan Al Kuwari, LOC Executive Director of Marketing, Promotion and Commercial, emphasized the broader significance of the tournament. He stated that the Arab Cup serves as a platform to celebrate regional talent and foster a sense of unity through shared experiences. The Fan Zones, he added, are central to this vision, embodying the diversity and richness of Arab culture.
Local Businesses Benefit from Increased Exposure
Sahab Yousef, representing Anbara Kitchen, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate. She noted that being featured in a major tournament like the Arab Cup provides invaluable exposure for small businesses and allows them to introduce their unique flavors to a wider audience. The kitchen is specializing in Levantine cuisine during the event.
Mohamed Aladdin Ibrahim, manager of Dokani, an Egyptian street food restaurant, echoed this sentiment. He praised Qatar and the organizers for hosting a tournament that celebrates Arab culture and brings people together. Dokani is offering traditional Egyptian fare to fans, contributing to the festive atmosphere.
Showcasing Regional Artistic Talent
Beyond food, the Fan Zones are also showcasing a wealth of artistic talent from across the Arab region. Traditional music, dance performances, and cultural displays are being presented, celebrating the heritage of each participating nation. A total of 103 unique performances, featuring over 686 performers, took place during the group stage.
Al Waleed Al Ateeri, a Jordanian performance artist, highlighted the unique camaraderie fostered by the tournament. He believes that events like the Arab Cup, hosted in Qatar, are particularly special because of their commitment to celebrating Arab culture on a global stage. This focus on cultural exchange is a key element of the tournament’s appeal.
The success of the Fan Zones demonstrates the growing importance of integrating cultural experiences into major sporting events. This approach not only enhances the enjoyment for fans but also provides economic opportunities for local businesses and promotes a sense of regional identity. The event is also boosting sports tourism in Qatar.
As the tournament progresses, organizers will continue to monitor fan engagement and make adjustments to ensure a positive experience for all attendees. The ongoing success of the Fan Zones will likely influence future event planning in Qatar and across the Arab region, potentially leading to increased investment in cultural events alongside sporting competitions. The next step will be evaluating the economic impact of the Fan Zones and gathering feedback from both businesses and attendees to inform future iterations of the event.
The final match of the FIFA Arab Cup is scheduled for December 19th, and the Fan Zones will remain open throughout the remainder of the tournament.
