“We are happy that the Khalifa International Stadium will again host football matches in Qatar. The stadium has been witness to the most prominent sporting achievements of Qatar and is a venue that is closest to Qatari hearts,” Sheikh Hamad said, after it was announced that it will host the prestigious Emir Cup between Al Rayyan and Al Sadd on May 19.
It will also host the opening match and the final of the Gulf Cup in December.
“We look to write the history of the Gulf Cup with a new Khalifa International Stadium which will host the opening match and the final of the tournament in December,” he added.
Hassan al-Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, said it was a matter of pride for the country that the first stadium for the 2022 FIFA World Cup has been completed.
“We are seeing history being made today. We are proud of our work as well as the Aspire Foundation and other partners in the redevelopment of the Khalifa International Stadium.
“We are delighted to host the Emir Cup final which comes as a culmination of the efforts of everyone involved, especially the workers.
“The completion of the modernisation project of the Khalifa International Stadium five years before the hosting of the World Cup football in 2022 confirms the commitment of the State of Qatar and its enthusiasm to organise the tournament for the first time in the region.”
Hilal Jeham al-Kuwari , head of projects at the Supreme Committee, said, “We’ve made sure during our work at the Khalifa International Stadium that the spirit of the stadium and its original design has been maintained. This stadium enjoys a prestigious place in every Qatari’s heart. We are delighted to have it back today.”
There are 61 hospitality suites in the eastern section of the stadium besides VIP suites in the western section and studios for television broadcasts.
A sports museum will also come up soon featuring exhibits with interactive displays charting the history of sports in Qatar.
“The Khalifa International Stadium is the first World Cup stadium to be completed, and work is under way on other stadiums which will be completed by 2021,” al-Kuwari added.
The stadium will have entertainment facilities similar to Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena and Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge Stadium in London.
It will be connected by public transport through a modern road network in addition to the Metro rail system coming up in Qatar to ensure easy access for the public. Fans will also be able to walk to the hotels and shopping malls surrounding Khalifa International Stadium.
The stadium has also earned a four-star rating from the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD), thus becoming one of the best stadiums in the region with regards to sustainable design.
The assessment of the global sustainability system is a method developed by GORD to ensure approved construction standards and is recognised by the FIFA.