Al Thumama Stadium’s inauguration was as host of the 49th Amir Cup Final on Friday 22 October 2021. The match, close to the heart of all Qataris, was a fitting occasion to open a stadium steeped in local culture.
Located 12km south of Doha's glittering skyline, Al Thumama Stadium will host FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 matches up to and including the quarter-finals.
Al Thumama Stadium is dynamic, empowering and truly imaginative. In keeping with all of Qatar’s new FIFA World Cup 2022 venues, this arena has been designed to celebrate Arab culture and traditions, just as much as the tournament itself.
The stadium’s bold, circular form reflects the gahfiya – a traditional woven cap adorned by men and boys all across the Middle East for centuries. It is a beloved part of Arab family culture that symbolises dignity and independence – marking every young boy's path to adulthood.
In symbolising Qatar's youth, Al Thumama Stadium also points to the country's emergence as a major player on the global sporting scene.
Al Thumama Stadium’s unmistakable presence sits majestically amid its lush green surroundings. Areas for play and relaxation have been created to not only beautify the venue, but to further enhance the lives and futures of the local communities.
In legacy mode, the stadium's capacity will be reduced to meet local needs and provide quality sporting infrastructure to developing nations. The remaining 20,000-seat arena will be used for football and other sporting events. A branch of the world-renowned Aspetar Sports Clinic will open on site, while a boutique hotel will also replace the stadium's upper stands.