Corniche set to become world's largest 'theatre'

The Doha Corniche area will turn into the largest theatre in the world for live performances with the kick-off of the opening match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, scheduled between Qatar and Ecuador at Al Bayt Stadium next Sunday.
The entertainment activities accompanying the tournament will conclude with the final match on Dec. 18.
Pedestrianised from the first of this month, the Corniche will provide a safe environment for fans as traffic from other streets also have been diverted to keep the area accessible and comfortable.
Central Doha and Corniche Street are designated as the most important and vital tourist attractions in Qatar. The entities organising FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 have placed great emphasis on these areas to reflect their tourist and cultural significance. The areas are also developed in a way to encourage a healthy lifestyle and protect the environment.
The waterfront has been decorated with palm frond-shaped lighting poles that reflect Qatari heritage. Pedestrian underpasses and plazas have been constructed to facilitate the movement of people between Al Corniche and the adjoining areas and these have been decorated with sculptures and artworks.
Three dhow (boat) docks were also completed at Al Corniche- Al-Bidda ,Dafna and Sheraton Park- in preparation for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The docks enable visitors to explore Doha and its waterfront. The docks provide secure corridors for boarding the boats for all, including persons with disabilities.
Major events at the Corniche area include giant display screens to broadcast football matches, musical festivals, cultural activities, in addition to a number of street fairs from around the world. The entertainment shows in this area are the most important events Qatar will witness during the tournament, bringing a special carnival atmosphere along the 6-km promenade from the Sheraton Grand Doha Hotel to MIA Park.
Fans will have amazing experiences upon their arrival in Doha to participate in the largest sporting event in the world. The entertainment programme includes over 90 special events that are poised to be organised on the sidelines of the tournament.
Moreover, there will be shows by performing artists, cultural activities, food & beverage stalls and shops. Up to 120,000 persons are expected to visit the area during the peak times.
Al Bidda Park on Doha Corniche will host the FIFA Fan Festival, where World Cup matches will be broadcasted via giant screens, along with distinguished performances and shows, cultural activities, numerous events and activities presented by the tournament sponsors, as well as food and beverage kiosks.
The FIFA Fan Festival is set to be inaugurated on Nov. 20.
The Corniche Street Development and Beautification Project also included the provision of numerous cafes and some service utilities, such as rest areas equipped with potable water coolers, prayer rooms, ablution areas, as well as displays and monitors. Pedestrian and cycle tracks had also been constructed, in addition to increasing the landscapes and tree plantation.
Doha Central & Corniche Street Development and Beautification Project provides parking spaces for over 7,700 vehicles.