Doha, Qatar – Qatar Rail has announced its comprehensive preparations for the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025 Finals, ensuring the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram networks are ready to efficiently transport fans throughout the tournaments, taking place December 1-18, 2025. The rail operator is implementing extended service hours, increased train frequency, and enhanced passenger support to accommodate the expected influx of visitors.
The preparations, announced this week, include adjustments to service schedules, park-and-ride availability, and staffing levels. According to Qatar Rail, these measures aim to provide a seamless and safe travel experience for attendees of both major sporting events. The focus is on minimizing congestion and maximizing convenience for fans traveling to and from the six tournament stadiums.
Enhanced Doha Metro Services for Major Tournaments
To meet anticipated demand, Qatar Rail will operate six-car trains on the Red Line and deploy a total of 110 trains during peak hours across the Doha Metro fleet. Service hours will be extended on days with late matches, allowing fans ample time to return home via the metro, metrolink, and metroexpress services.
However, some adjustments to park-and-ride facilities will be in effect. The Education City Park and Ride will be unavailable on match days at the adjacent stadium. Additionally, the Lusail QNB Park and Ride will be closed throughout the tournament, with fans directed to utilize the Qatar University facility instead. These changes are intended to optimize traffic flow and prioritize pedestrian safety.
Lusail Tram Adjustments and Event Support
The Lusail Tram will also see modifications to its service during the tournaments. The Orange Line will operate solely between Legtaifiya and Al Wessil stations. The Pink Line will maintain its regular schedule, while the Turquoise Line will be temporarily suspended due to safety considerations surrounding Lusail Stadium and Lusail Boulevard. Further adjustments to the Pink Line will occur from December 10-14 to accommodate the T100 Triathlon event, limiting service to Legtaifiya and Tarfat South stations during race times.
Dedicated event teams and trained staff will be stationed at key stations, including those directly linked to the tournament venues. These teams will provide ticketing assistance, wayfinding support, and assistance to passengers with disabilities. Additional wayfinding signage has been installed throughout key stations to guide fans.
Infrastructure and Customer Support
Qatar Rail has undertaken a thorough maintenance process across all stations to ensure they are prepared for the increased passenger volume. Dedicated maintenance teams will be on standby throughout the network to address any potential issues promptly. A 24/7 customer contact center, reachable at 105 and via WhatsApp at 44433105, will provide continuous support to visitors and residents. This multilingual support system aims to address inquiries and provide assistance in a timely manner.
Five of the six tournament stadiums – Lusail, Stadium 974, Education City, Ahmad bin Ali, and Khalifa International – are conveniently located within walking distance of a metro station. Al Bayt Stadium will be connected via a dedicated shuttle bus service from Lusail QNB Station. This accessibility is a key component of Qatar Rail’s strategy to facilitate smooth transportation for fans.
The FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025 will feature matches at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on December 10, 13, and 17. The 2025 FIFA Arab Cup will utilize all six stadiums: Lusail, Ahmad bin Ali, Al Bayt, Education City, Khalifa International, and Stadium 974.
Looking ahead, Qatar Rail will continue to monitor passenger flow and make adjustments as needed throughout the tournaments. Fans are encouraged to follow Qatar Rail’s social media channels and utilize the mobile app for the latest service updates and to plan their journeys in advance. The success of these transportation plans will be a key factor in the overall fan experience during these major sporting events, and ongoing evaluation will inform future improvements to Qatar’s public transport system.
Qatar Rail Official Website
FIFA Official Website
The Peninsula Qatar
