Explore Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium – World Cup Legacy

Al Rayyan Stadium (also referred to as Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium) is one of the outstanding sports venues in Qatar created for the FIFA World Cup 2022. It is a famous stadium situated in Al Rayyan city; it unites the modern solutions of sustainability and traditional Qatari architecture. The stadium had a capacity of around 40,000 seats during the FIFA World Cup 2022, but after the tournament it was downsized to approximately 21,000 seats as part of its legacy plan. Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium still serves as a reminder of Qatar's desire to be innovative and proud of its culture in athletics.

Get to know Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Overview of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is a modern sports venue in Al Rayyan, Qatar, known for its cultural design and World Cup legacy.

Location

The Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is situated in Al Rayyan, which is a city in Qatar located near desert landscapes and is known as a gateway to the desert, though not within immediate walking distance to major sand dunes and it has rich cultural heritage as its name translates to mean the gateway to the desert. The stadium is located close to the Mall of Qatar and is well accessible through a major road and through the public means of transport.

This is a world-class venue that was used as a match venue during the FIFA World Cup 2022, and is sustainably designed to appear as a traditional desert tent. It creates an inviting and accommodating atmosphere for all visitors, including those with disabilities. The stadium, located in Al Rayyan, initially accommodated 40,000 fans for the World Cup, but now has a permanent capacity of about 21,000.

The stadium stands proudly in Al Rayyan, Qatar

History

The stadium was built on the site of the original Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, named in honor of Ahmad bin Ali Al Thani, who ruled Qatar from 1960 to 1972. Its construction started at the start of 2016 with the design led by Pattern Design (UK). The cost of construction was reported to be around $360 million, although official confirmation is limited.

The stadium opened on the 18 December 2020, Qatar National Day, two years on to the day it would host its first FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 match. It was constructed on the outskirts of the desert in Al Rayyan thereby acting like a symbolic gateway to people who enter or exit the city.

The materials from the 2003 stadium constituted more than 90 percent after it was demolished in 2015 in line with Al Rayyan committing to sustainability. After the 2022 World Cup, the upper tiers—around 20,000 seats—were dismantled and donated to football development projects abroad.

Entrance fee and open hours

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is not open for daily public visits, but access may be granted during official matches or specially organized tours on specific occasions. The entry fees and visiting hours depend on the type of event or tour.

• Entrance fee: depends on the events and shows. Match days require tickets, whereas the tour fees are possible in case guided visits are offered.
• Operating hours: The stadium opens some hours before the matches. On non match days, only pre-booked tours or other special events are able to gain entrance.

Confirmed visitors can be encouraged to visit the official site or event organizers in order to receive the most updated and correct information.

Design and architecture of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

The design of Ahmad Bin Ali stadium is very closely linked to Qatari culture and Islamic architecture. It has a very prominent facade filled with intricate patterns known as 'Naquish', which represent themes like family values, the desert scenery, the local wildlife and botany and commerce. These patterns are combined in the figure of a shield, which means strength and unification. The façade is not only aesthetically pleasant but also functional and it helps to cool the stadium by using the new parametric design technology.

The stadium celebrates the Al Rayyan Sports Club inside with seats styled in red and black-the official colors of the club. Older materials, careful use of lights, and space planning create a homely and culturally diverse environment to visitors.

The design concept of the master plan is based on an imaginative route through the desert spread over a 69 hectare site and a unique geometry known as a circular design. Imaginative construction accompanies efficient design in the interiors that contain the full range of modern facilities, VIP lounges, skyboxes, press rooms and player areas to name but a few whereas their style blends with the comfort to give a team experience within the world of sporting.

Built on the original Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium site

Major events hosted at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Since its opening, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium turned into the central destination of the sporting events not only in its region but worldwide as well. It holds a crowd capacity of 40000 audience and has hosted several main tournaments and games which can attest to the growth Qatar has attained in the global sporting landscape.

• FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: Venue of seven matches, including the group match, and round of sixteen games.
• FIFA Arab Cup 2021: It was a hosting venue of the regional tournament.
• Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium was one of the official venues for the AFC Asian Cup 2023 (played in early 2024), hosting several key matches including a semi-final.
• Qatar Stars League Games: A regular home ground of Al Rayyan SC and other Qatar Stars League Games.
• National Day Celebrations (2020): Opening to a major celebration on the Qatar National Day, 18 December 2020.
• Match for Hope (2024): The stadium hosted the charity football match featuring international legends and celebrities.

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium continues to serve as a key location for football and cultural events in Qatar.

Key events held at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

What to expect when visiting Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium will give visitors a rare opportunity in viewing modern architecture, Qatari culture, and a global sporting experience. Attending a game or getting acquainted with the stadium by means of a guided tour, all will leave a memorable impression.

• Bold architecture: Marvel at stadium that uses traditional Qatari patterns (Naquish) and a shield shape.
• Important culturally: Become familiar with the rich heritage of the place Al Rayyan, already embodied in the design and theme of the stadium.
• Luxury amenities: Have the best of modern facilities with VIP lounge, fan zone, restaurants and accessible seats.
• If available, join a stadium tour to see behind the scenes including player changing rooms, press rooms, and hospitality rooms.
• Match day atmosphere: Get the thrill of playing live football, most especially when Al Rayyan SC is playing at home.

Check the official website for tour availability, event schedules, and ticket information before visiting.

Reasons to visit Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

How to reach there

The location of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, in the city of Al Rayyan, west of central Doha is convenient and provides easy access with several transportation options available.

• By Metro: Ride the Green Line and get off at Al Riffa Station which is walking distance to the stadium.
• By Car: Can be reached through major motorways; parking space provided when events are going on.
• By Ride-Hailing apps / Taxi: There are regular services at the stadium to and from using Karwa, Uber, Careem.
• By Bus: Major events utilise the service of public buses and event shuttle services to link significant sites with the stadium.

Best time to visit

The best visiting time is dependent on the weather status, the programs at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, and preference.

• Cool season (November to March): This is the best season one may visit to attend the matches and tours during this period because the weather is pleasant.
• When attending a tournament: Attending a game in a tournament such as that of Qatar Stars League, Asian Cup of the Asian Football Confederation or any other international match will offer you an exciting experience.
• Evening time: matches and events held in the evening offer a cooler and more comfortable climate and besides, the facade of the stadium gets added lighting.
• National holidays: Qatar National Day is an annual special event that sometimes involves celebrations at the stadium.

Always check the official schedule before planning your visit.

Tips to visit Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

A good way of maximizing your visit at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is to plan in advance. These are some tricks to make the trip nice and comfortable:

• Buy tickets early: If the event is a match or the venue, buy your tickets in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
• Get there early: At least 1 to 2 hours before the event at the stadium to pass through the security and seat yourself.
• Take public transport – Metro: The best way to avoid traffic and parking hassles is by using the metro (Al Riffa Station – Green Line).
• Look at the weather: In case you are going there in summer, prepare your clothes and gear to expect hot weather; drink plenty of water.
• Remember the stadium rules: Study security tips and lists of what is not allowed, so you can get in with comfort.
• Familiarize yourself with the surrounding sights: Take a look at the Mall of Qatar next to the stadium that offers a place to eat and a place to spend some money on shopping before or after your visit.

Visiting tips for Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Accommodation and dining near Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Visitors to Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium will find a variety of accommodation and dining options conveniently located nearby, especially around the Mall of Qatar area.

Accommodation options:

• AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton: A luxury hotel directly connected to Mall of Qatar, offering premium rooms and facilities.
• Premier Inn Doha Education City: Budget-friendly option within 10 minutes’ drive from the stadium.
• Ezdan Palace Hotel: A 5-star hotel located along Al Shamal Road, offering spacious rooms and amenities.

Dining options:

• Mall of Qatar: Offers a wide range of international restaurants and cafés, from fast food to fine dining.
• Local Qatari cuisine: Try nearby traditional restaurants serving local dishes like machboos, grilled meats, and Arabic sweets.
• International chains: Brands like PF Chang’s, Shake Shack, and Paul are available within the mall complex.

Advance booking is recommended during major events.

FAQs about Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you learn more about visiting and experiencing Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.

How much did the Ahmad bin Ali stadium cost?

The construction of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium reportedly cost around $360 million. This investment included the main stadium, surrounding infrastructure, and sustainable features, aligning with Qatar’s commitment to hosting world-class events like the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

Which football club uses Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium as its home ground?

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium located in Al Rayyan, the capital city of Qatar is the home of Al Rayyan Sports Club which is one of Qatar’s oldest and most popular football teams. The club frequently holds its home games of the Qatar Stars League at this modern and culturally important stadium Al Rayyan.

Is the stadium accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium has been made accessible to the people with special needs. It has allotted seating, convenient access, toilets, and support services to make every visitor feel relaxed and welcome especially when they have to attend matches and other events.

In conclusion

To sum it up, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is a contemporary reflection of the Qatari sporting traditions and culture. Being one of the destinations that host the international events including the FIFA world cup, it is able to get thousands of visitors annually. In case you will want to attend a match or a tour to this iconic stadium, don t forget to apply your Qatar e-visa in advance. The fact that application online is simple indicates that the entry process is easy and your visit to Qatar will be not only convenient but also memorable.